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Ecobank Group Launches World First Nature Bond Mobilising Global Capital to Protect Africa’s Natural Ecosystems

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1 month ago

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IATF

Unlike many conservation-focused financing vehicles, Ecobank’s Nature Bond channels capital directly through Africa’s real economy — financing businesses and communities whose day-to-day activities shape environmental outcomes at scale

LOMÉ, Togo, June 2, 2026/APO Group/ –Ecobank Group (www.Ecobank.com) has launched the world’s first ICMA commercial bank-issued Nature Bond on the London Stock Exchange, creating a new route for international and African capital to protect Africa’s biodiversity. Moody’s awarded the transaction its highest possible sustainability quality score, SQS1 Excellent. The bond will support African farmers, sustainable agriculture businesses and water systems, protecting some of the planet’s most important ecosystems.

Impact on the ground in Africa

Africa is home to some of the world’s most important natural capital, including arable land, tropical forests, freshwater systems and biodiversity across hundreds of millions of hectares. But, until now, private nature capital has not flowed to Africa at the scale the continent’s ecological significance warrants in global ecological resilience. Despite hosting 25% of global biodiversity, Africa receives less than 3% of nature finance

Ecobank’s Nature Bond is a direct response to this gap. It will support smallholder farmers adopting sustainable agricultural practices, agri-processors with verified deforestation-free supply chains, and water infrastructure protecting freshwater ecosystems relied upon by millions of people. Unlike many conservation-focused financing vehicles, Ecobank’s Nature Bond channels capital directly through Africa’s real economy — financing businesses and communities whose day-to-day activities shape environmental outcomes at scale.

The investments will be made in 24 markets, with significant deployment in biodiversity-priority countries such as Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and Ghana. Importantly, 81% of the eligible lending pool is allocated to countries where agricultural land-use change is the primary driver of biodiversity loss, helping direct capital to the areas where it can have the greatest environmental impact.

The framework also incorporates independent monitoring and verification mechanisms, including deforestation screening and supply chain traceability requirements, helping ensure that financed activities deliver measurable nature-positive outcomes. Every eligible loan carries seven independently verified sustainability conditions.

The launch of this bond also comes as governments and investors worldwide face mounting pressure to mobilise private capital for biodiversity protection and sustainable land use.

What is a Nature Bond?

A Nature Bond, under the ICMA secondary designation, requires proceeds to actively contribute to nature-positive outcomes, including transforming economic activities to reduce the drivers of nature loss at scale.

We have spent four years building the systems, governance and accountability needed to make nature finance credible and scalable in Africa

The Nature Bond was designed to reach those that conservation-focused instruments were not designed to serve – farmers, agri-processors and water operators whose daily activities collectively determine ecosystem outcomes.

While green bonds typically finance a broad range of environmental objectives, the Nature Bond designation focuses the use of proceeds specifically on nature-related outcomes, including biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, land use and water infrastructure.

The transaction

The USD 450 million bond was priced following strong investor demand with the final orderbook exceeding USD 1.36 billion – 3.9x the original target size. The strength of demand enabled Ecobank to increase the transaction by USD 100 million and tighten pricing by 50 basis points.

The transaction attracted support from both international and African investors, demonstrating Ecobank’s unique ability to mobilise capital across global and African markets.

For the first time, international and African capital markets have a credible, scalable mechanism for financing the protection of African natural capital through the communities who depend on it.

Jeremy Awori, Group Chief Executive Office, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, commented:

“This transaction is a defining moment for African sustainable finance. Investors did not just support this bond. They demanded more of it, allowing us to increase the size and tighten pricing.

We are not a bank that simply labels bonds. We have spent four years building the systems, governance and accountability needed to make nature finance credible and scalable in Africa.

This bond is ultimately about the farmers, cooperatives and communities whose livelihoods depend on healthy ecosystems.”

Rachael Antwi, Group Head of Sustainability and ESRM, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, added:

“Nature finance will only scale in Africa if it is practical, measurable and connected to the real economy. This bond is designed to do that by linking international capital to eligible lending for sustainable agriculture and water infrastructure across 24 countries. It reflects the systems and standards Ecobank has built to ensure nature finance supports both environmental resilience and the communities whose livelihoods depend on healthy ecosystems.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated.

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Asia’s Debut of LEAP East in HKCEC Marks Hong Kong’s Largest Inaugural Tech Summit

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4 hours ago

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July 14, 2026

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Hong Kong

Hong Kong Secures Exclusive Three-Year Deal with Tahaluf for LEAP East; Set to Return to HKCEC in 2027, Reinforcing the City’s Global I&T Leadership
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2026 – Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited (“HML”) is celebrating the highly successful conclusion of LEAP East 2026—the historic Asian debut of Saudi Arabia’s premier technology conference brand, LEAP.

Staged over three days at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (“HKCEC”), the inaugural event utilised over 35,000 square meters of rentable space across Hall 1 and Hall 3. Positioned right on the Victoria Harbour waterfront, the landmark summit served as a global bridge, bringing 300 startups and 600 investors—collectively representing more than US$6.5 trillion in assets under management—under one roof.

HML is delighted to have welcomed the first flagship edition of LEAP ever held outside the Middle East, celebrating its conclusion as Hong Kong’s largest-ever inaugural technology event. The summit’s drawing power was significant, attracting over 25,000 professionals, policymakers, and investors, with a mix of 55% international and Chinese Mainland and 45% local participation.

Ms Monica Lee-Müller, Managing Director of HML, commented, “The resounding success of LEAP East perfectly demonstrates Hong Kong’s strategic role as a ‘super-connector’ and ‘super value-adder’ bridging economies, innovation, capital, and cultures. We are deeply grateful for the close collaboration between governments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which made this milestone possible. This year, HML has welcomed major Asian debuts or city’s first-ever events with tremendous success. These events have shown a strong desire to return to the HKCEC next year with larger floor space, bigger crowds, and even bolder ideas—and I am absolutely delighted that LEAP East is among them.”

Ms Lee-Müller added, “In support of Hong Kong’s strategic development plans, HML will continue to position the HKCEC as a leading platform where diverse industries can demonstrate latest achievements, exchange insights and unlock new opportunities. Through our world-class facilities and professional services, the HKCEC plays a pivotal role in reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as the premier Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, Exhibitions (MICE) hub in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The venue also serves as a gateway for enterprises from the Chinese Mainland to connect with international partners and engage with global business community. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for visitors of all cultures. Our proactive efforts to introduce Muslim-friendly facilities and services have earned the HKCEC the distinction of being the first venue accredited as a Gold-standard Muslim-Friendly MICE Venue—contributing to the success of LEAP East.”

Ms Annabelle Mander, Executive Vice President of Tahaluf and co-creator of LEAP, commented, “LEAP East is far more than just an event; it is a bridge to the wider technology ecosystem. We see immense synergies between Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong, particularly in their shared ambitions and thriving technology hubs across AI, FinTech, and beyond. Hong Kong was the natural choice to launch a brand like LEAP, and the HKCEC has proven to be the ideal venue to foster collaboration and innovation. From outstanding halal dining options for our Saudi visitors to dedicated bilateral meeting rooms and prayer facilities, the venue provides everything I could want as both a host and an attendee. It has been perfect for us.”

HML applauds Tahaluf’s commitment to making Hong Kong the exclusive Asian host city for LEAP East through a three-year run, and extends sincere thanks to the Government for its unwavering support of the convention and exhibition sector.

About the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
This award–winning 306,000–sqm building, first opened in 1988, offers 91,500 sqm of rentable space. An iconic Hong Kong landmark, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (‘HKCEC’) is located on a prime waterfront site in the central business district of Hong Kong. It is owned by the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council.

About Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (Management) Limited (‘HML’) is a professional private management and operating company responsible for providing day–to–day management for the HKCEC, where it oversees administration, marketing, booking, scheduling, event co–ordination, maintenance and security. It also manages food and beverage operations at the HKCEC, including restaurants and catering services. HML provides world–class services for users, visitors and guests of the HKCEC, a venue which has been consistently awarded the title of ‘Best Convention and Exhibition Centre in Asia’ by leading industry professionals. Events at the HKCEC, including exhibitions, conferences, corporate meetings, entertainment events, seminars and banquets, contribute significant economic benefits to the city and help raise the international image of Hong Kong.

HML is a member of CTF Services Limited. Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, CTF Services Limited (Hong Kong Stock Code: 659) is a conglomerate with a diversified portfolio of market-leading businesses, predominantly in Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland. The Group’s businesses include toll roads, financial services, logistics, construction, and facilities management. Through the Group’s sustainable business model, it is committed to creating more value for all stakeholders and the community.

 

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Bernard Beya appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

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6 hours ago

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July 14, 2026

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Bernard Beya

Bernard brings over 20 years of leadership experience in telecommunications, including deep expertise in the DRC market

KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo, July 13, 2026/APO Group/ –Liquid Intelligent Technologies (https://Liquid.Tech), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader, is pleased to announce the appointment of Bernard Beya as Chief Executive Officer of its operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), effective 1 April 2026.

I am honoured to lead Liquid DRC’s next phase of growth

“The DRC represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities in our region, and Bernard’s appointment comes at an important moment in our journey. His deep understanding of the local market, combined with his commitment to customer success and operational excellence, will help accelerate our ambitions to expand digital infrastructure and enable greater economic growth across the country,” said Sutha Siva, EVP: Group Chief Operating Officer at Cassava Technologies.

Bernard brings over 20 years of leadership experience in telecommunications, including deep expertise in the DRC market. He joined Liquid in September 2022 as Chief Financial Officer and was appointed Acting CEO in November 2025, overseeing the organisation’s strategic, operational and commercial direction. His proven track record of delivering results and building stakeholder trust highlights his capability to lead Liquid DRC effectively.

“I am honoured to lead Liquid DRC’s next phase of growth. Our priority is to build on the strong operational and financial foundation we have established to deliver greater value for our customers and partners. As a business of Cassava Technologies, we can expand access to reliable connectivity, cloud, cyber security, colocation and compute AI for our customers. We can play a meaningful role in accelerating digital transformation for the country’s enterprises, government, and communities,” said Bernard.

As the Democratic Republic of Congo advances its digital transformation agenda (https://apo-opa.co/450UEeK) through significant investments in digital infrastructure, connectivity, and skills development, Liquid Intelligent Technologies is well positioned to support these national ambitions, helping unlock inclusive economic growth and drive the country’s digital future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

 

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Energy

Mining Chambers to Highlight Africa’s Next Wave of Investment Opportunities at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026

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22 hours ago

on

July 13, 2026

By

Etu Energias

Representatives from chambers of mines across Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mali, Uganda, South Africa, Liberia and the DRC will showcase investment opportunities emerging from regulatory reforms and sector expansion at African Mining Week 2026

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, July 13, 2026/APO Group/ –As African countries advance reforms to unlock new mineral discoveries and strengthen mining investment, chambers of mines are playing an increasingly important role in connecting governments, investors and industry. Through policy advocacy, regulatory engagement and investment promotion, these organizations are helping shape the continent’s next phase of mining development.

 

That growing role will be on display at African Mining Week (AMW) 2026, taking place in Cape Town from October 14–16, where chamber executives will highlight the policies, partnerships and investment opportunities driving growth across Africa’s mining sector.

Zimbabwe offers a prime example of this expanding role. The Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe has become an increasingly influential voice in addressing production constraints, including power shortages and foreign exchange challenges. Its recommendations align with recent government initiatives to expand coal-fired power generation, increase coal production and achieve 10% mining sector growth in 2026. At AMW 2026, CEO Isaac Kwesu will outline investment opportunities emerging as the country implements reforms to strengthen mining competitiveness.

In South Africa, the Minerals Council South Africa continues to advocate for improvements to rail, port and electricity infrastructure while supporting the implementation of the Mineral Resources Development Bill and measures to stimulate exploration. These priorities complement government initiatives such as the Junior Mining Exploration Fund and a broader strategy to mobilize R2 trillion in mining investment over the next five years. CEO Mzila Mthenjane will discuss efforts to revitalize exploration and unlock opportunities across the country’s platinum group metals, manganese and critical minerals sectors.

In Zambia, the Zambia Chamber of Mines has helped shape the Geological and Minerals Development Act of 2025, legislation designed to stimulate mineral exploration as the country works toward increasing annual copper production to three million tons by 2031. Zambia has already reached a key milestone in its nationwide geological mapping program, completing 55% of the survey, while the recent launch of the National Spatial Data Infrastructure Policy and Geoportal is improving investor access to geological data. At AMW 2026, CEO Sokwani Chilembo is expected to showcase investment opportunities as Zambia expands exploration and diversifies beyond copper.

As countries increasingly position mining as a driver of economic diversification, Fousseni Togola, President of the Mali Chamber of Mines, will present opportunities in the country’s gold and lithium sectors, highlighting how Mali’s 2023 Mining Code is supporting investment into emerging minerals.

In Uganda, Humphrey Asiimwe, CEO of the Uganda Chamber of Energy and Minerals, told AMW that the chamber will use the event to promote investment opportunities in gold, graphite and rare earths. The country’s mining sector forms a cornerstone of Uganda’s strategy to increase GDP from $59.3 billion to $500 billion by 2040.

Meanwhile, Amara Kamara, President of the Liberia Chamber of Mines, is expected to highlight reforms aimed at attracting new exploration investment, including plans to establish a national mining company as Liberia targets more than $3 billion in annual mining and energy revenues by 2029.

Regional collaboration will also feature prominently during AMW 2026. Thierry Naweji, Executive Chairman of the SA-DRC Chamber of Commerce, is expected to discuss opportunities to strengthen cooperation between South African and Congolese mining companies as both countries work to build more integrated regional mineral value chains.

With regulatory reforms gathering pace across the continent, AMW 2026 will highlight how chambers of mines are helping translate policy ambitions into investment opportunities, reinforcing their growing role in Africa’s mining development.

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

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