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Azule Energy Reiterates Commitment to Angola, Pioneers World’s First Green Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Vessel

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Azule Energy

The African Energy Chamber commends Azule Energy for its sustainability efforts and operations in Angola as it supports the country’s E&P goals

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, July 17, 2024/APO Group/ — 

In a bid to solidify its position as a key player in the global energy market, Angola has set its sights on ramping up oil and gas production to counter expected natural decline. The country plans to increase oil output to 1.1 million barrels per day (bpd), maintaining this output until 2027. Meanwhile, Angola is also working to increase natural gas’ share in its energy mix to 25% by 2025, a move that will strengthen feedstock for the Angola LNG facility. With substantial investments in upstream projects, Azule Energy is poised to play a crucial role in helping the country achieve its ambitious energy goals.

Upstream Investments to Bolster Angolan Energy Security 

Azule Energy represents one of the largest independent equity producers of oil and gas in Angola, with two billion barrels equivalent of net resources, stakes in 20 licenses – of which 11 are operated – and participation in the Angola LNG joint venture – the entity that operates the country’s inaugural LNG plant. The company has set a target of increasing oil production to 250,000 bpd within the 2023-2026 period, accelerating gas monetization through the New Gas Consortium (NGC) – operated by Azule Energy – while developing 500 MW of renewable energy by 2025. This diversified project portfolio aligns closely with the government’s efforts to bolster energy security in the country.

Major upcoming projects also include the Agogo Integrated West Hub development, which features the development of a new production hub at Block 15/06. The project will produce hydrocarbons from the already-producing Agogo field and the newly developed Ndungu field, utilizing the existing Ngoma FPSO and the under-construction Agogo FPSO. Utilizing existing infrastructure in Block 15/06, the Agogo FPSO will have a capacity of 120,000 bpd and a gas injection capacity of 230 million cubic feet per day. Achieving FID in 2023, the Agogo Integrated West Hub project will come online in 2026.

Notwithstanding new developments, Azule Energy is committed to going even further with its support for production growth in Angola by maximizing output in existing fields. In line with Angola’s recently established Incremental Production Program – which seeks to incentivize investment in already-producing assets – the company is assessing expansion opportunities at mature fields. Currently, Azule Energy’s portfolio of operated blocks include Cabinda Norte and Cabinda Centro (onshore), as well as Blocks 31, 15/06, 1/14, 18 and 28 (offshore). The company also has four FPSO vessels in operation, with a capacity of 1.75 million bpd each. Investments in incremental production at producing blocks would not only maximize field development but drive energy security across the nation.

Angola is and remains at the core of our corporate strategy even as we explore other interesting opportunities outside

In addition to oil, the company is also spearheading the development of the country’s first non-associated gas project through the NGC. The first phase of the project monetizes gas resources from the Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields – located in the shallow waters of the Northern Gas Complex – to produce four billion cubic meters of gas per year via two offshore platforms and an onshore gas processing plant. The project is strategically designed to supply gas for the Angola LNG plant and is on track for first production in 2026. The NGC has the potential to utilize gas from Blocks 2, 3 and 15/14 for the Angola LNG plant, thereby supporting diversification and boosting gas monetization in Angola.  

“Azule is fully committed to Angola. Angola is and remains at the core of our corporate strategy even as we explore other interesting opportunities outside. Our leadership is fully committed to investing and developing local content in Angola because we believe that is the right thing to do,” said Adalberto Fernandes, Government Affairs Director at Azule Energy.

Pioneering Sustainable Oil and Gas Solutions

Azule Energy has placed sustainability at the heart of its operations in Angola. The company’s Agogo FPSO, for example, is a pioneering infrastructure that incorporates carbon capture and storage (CCS) capabilities. The vessel is designed in a way that redefines sustainability in the industry and is largely-considered the first-of-its-kind. Specifically, the FPSO features the world’s first post-combustion CO2 capture plants installed on an offshore facility, thereby significantly reducing the amount of CO2 emitted. The FPSO also integrates a number of electrification and automation technologies in line with the company’s vision to achieve net-zero in terms of Scope 1 emissions by 2030.

Meanwhile, the company is currently producing its first-ever sustainability report, which provides a comprehensive overview of Azule Energy’s performance regarding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices. The report will outline a plan to achieve net-zero and introduce stakeholders to measures and technologies being applied to drive sustainable oil and gas operations.

Additionally, Azule Energy is committed to strengthening local content in Angola. Through the company’s operations, Azule Energy supports job creation opportunities and has incorporated a skills development component to all projects. Block 15/06 alone is expected to become a hub for local industries, generating $5.6 billion and creating 1,400 jobs by 2044. Meanwhile, the company’s onshore gas processing plant in Soyo – representing part of the NGC – features specific local content components. The NGC estimates that $1 billion of the project’s costs will be allocated to the procurement of local goods, services and materials. In tandem with renewable energy investments, these endeavors aim to set a new standard for sustainable oil and gas operations in Angola.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to Open Namibia International Energy Conference 2025

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Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

The Namibia International Energy Conference 2025, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, will be officially opened by President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking a historic milestone in Namibia’s journey to becoming a global energy hub

WINDHOEK, Namibia, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –The Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) is proud to announce that the President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will officially open the 2025 edition of the conference.

“We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference. Her participation marks a historic milestone for NIEC and reaffirms the government’s commitment to harnessing Namibia’s energy potential for shared prosperity. It also reflects the kind of forward-looking leadership that is essential to positioning Namibia as an emerging leader in the global energy landscape.” said Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, Founder & CEO of RichAfrica Consultancy and Convenor of NIEC.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah is a committed advocate for ensuring that Namibia derives maximum value from its natural resources through value addition and sustainable development, with a focus on uplifting the Namibian people and strengthening local capacity.

We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference

As Namibia lays the foundations to become an energy hub, NIEC 2025 will explore the key building blocks needed to realize this vision. These include enabling investment, strengthening institutions, advancing infrastructure and environmental stewardship, promoting local content and reinforcing good governance. Energy is increasingly recognized as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development – unlocking industrialization, economic diversification, job creation and long-term prosperity.

Now in its 7th edition, NIEC 2025 will be held under the theme, “Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value,” and is scheduled to take place from 23-25 April 2025 at the Windhoek Country Club Resort, Windhoek, Namibia.

Since its inception in 2012 under the theme, “A Road to Discovery and Beyond,” the conference has evolved into a premier platform for high-level dialogue, thought leadership and strategic engagement. It has played a crucial role in shaping discourse around Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry and its broader energy sector.

The event draws a global audience, including OPEC representatives, senior executives from international oil companies, prominent service providers, investors and industry experts. It has also welcomed numerous government leaders from across Africa, including ministers of energy, as well as Namibia’s own public and private sector leaders.

NIEC 2025 will feature a strategic program of panels, dialogues and expert-led sessions designed to unpack the conference theme and spotlight key issues and opportunities that will define the future of the energy industry. The 2025 edition is expected to welcome over 1,000 delegates from across the globe, reinforcing its position as the country’s premier energy platform.

The conference is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia and is curated and convened by RichAfrica Consultancy, with the African Energy Chamber as a strategic partner.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber

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Ministry of Health and KAOUN International launch GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA in Morocco

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GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA

GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will drive unprecedented impact across Africa, leveraging breakthroughs in technology and AI to enhance quality and access to healthcare

MARRAKECH, Morocco, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –During the third annual edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent’s largest tech and startup show, His Excellency Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection announced the launch of GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco – in partnership with KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

The much anticipated and pivotal event for the healthcare economy was officially launched with the signing of the partnership agreement, and will be held under the authority of Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection, hosted in partnership with Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health (FM6SS), and organised by KOAUN International, the organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

To be hosted in Casablanca from 21-23 April 2026, GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco, featuring GITEX DIGI_HEALTH, is set to lead the transformation impetus of Morocco and Africa to combat challenges in healthcare information, delivery, access and efficiency, capitalising on the emergence of AI and digital technologies.

The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently

H.E. Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Minister of Health and Social Protection, stated: “GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco embodies the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to health as a fundamental and universal human right, enshrined in our national vision for health system reform. As digital innovation, data intelligence, and health tech increasingly shape the future of care delivery across Africa, this platform reinforces Morocco’s position as a regional hub for collaboration, talent, and investment. Through international partnerships, strategic innovation, and shared expertise, we have a unique opportunity to co-build inclusive, resilient, and people-centered healthcare systems for the continent and beyond.”

For its part, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health emphasized its strategic vision: “As a major player in the fields of health, training, and scientific research, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health is committed, alongside the Ministry of Health and Social Protection and KAOUN International, to making Morocco a continental hub for healthtech. By contributing its medical and academic expertise through the development of digital health and medical technologies in Morocco and Africa, we aim to help shape the healthcare ecosystem of tomorrow.”

Morocco has emerged as a pioneer in digital health initiatives and advancing expeditiously towards an integrated health information system, fostering the adoption of innovative medical technologies to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure and system. The African healthcare market is estimated to be worth US$259 billion and expected to become the second biggest market after the US by 2030.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX globally, commented: “There is urgency from governments and healthcare institutions worldwide – and especially in Africa – to modernise and digitise their healthcare services to increase reach, reduce healthcare costs and deliver better patient outcomes. GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will highlight the role and growing influence of AI and new digital solutions to improve data-driven decision making and reduce health inequities. The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently.”

The three-day event will open with an agenda shaping leadership summit tackling powerful themes – accelerating cutting-edge solutions set to transform access, outcomes and health equity. Targeting decision-making executives from hospitals and healthcare institutions, health ministers and government leaders, CIOs, CTOs, innovators and disruptors, and public health policymakers – topics during the summit will explore health infrastructure, expanded access to healthcare, investment and research, data security and national records integration, health and data analytics, and AI-powered diagnostics.

An exhibition will bring together top researchers, practitioners, innovators, and experts from the global healthcare industry – representing Africa’s most important gathering of medical & lab equipment, imaging & diagnostics, IT systems & solutions, healthcare infrastructure, healthcare transformation, smart hospitals, healthcare management, and digital health management systems in Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa

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Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG) Appoints APO Group Founder, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, to Advisory Board

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Critical Minerals

CMAG gives Africa and the companies operating within the African critical minerals ecosystem a voice in discussions about supply chains and shaping policy

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and leading press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been appointed to the newly formed Advisory Board of the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

With its mission being to position Africa as a leader in critical minerals, CMAG (www.CMAGAfrica.com) is dedicated to advancing responsible sourcing and sustainable development of Africa’s critical mineral resources, while ensuring that local economies benefit from the continent’s mineral wealth. With approximately 40% of the world’s essential minerals reserves estimated to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa alone, the region plays a key role in the global energy transition and advanced technologies.

Pompigne-Mognard’s appointment to the Advisory Board follows the announcement of a strategic partnership between APO Group and CMAG aimed at raising the global prominence of Africa’s critical minerals sector. The partnership leverages APO Group’s public relations and strategic communications expertise and CMAG’s industry leadership. Complementing this, Pompigne-Mognard’s ability to connect clients with key stakeholders from governments, private companies, and organisations of all sizes will be invaluable in showcasing Africa’s role in the global essential resources supply chain and elevating the profile of Africa’s critical minerals sector.

In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CMAG Advisory Board. His vast network across industries, governments, and institutions, his deep understanding of Africa’s media and technology landscapes, and his extensive business experience will equip him to work alongside fellow Advisory Board members to shape positive perceptions of Africa’s critical minerals sector amongst global stakeholders and audiences.

A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business and the Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom, a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa.

Nicolas’ wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. It serves more than 300 clients, including global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, Network International, the African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

“Being appointed to the Critical Minerals Africa Group Advisory Board is an immense honour. CMAG is vital in safeguarding Africa’s critical minerals for future generations. In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group.

Other members of the Advisory Board include Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global, and Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group

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