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Envisioning a more sustainable future – climate change in the spotlight at inaugural SuperBridge Summit Dubai

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SuperBridge Summit

The role of collaboration between emerging and G20 markets, the GCC as a clean energy hub, and smart living technologies in the energy transition all on the agenda

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 13, 2023/APO Group/ — 

With the UAE all set to host the United Nations’ 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) in November, next week’s inaugural SuperBridge Summit Dubai (www.SuperBridgeDubai.com)- taking place at the Museum of the Future in Dubai on 16-17 October 2023 – will bring together diverse thought leaders and visionaries from around the interconnected world to discuss the role that countries can play in envisioning and contributing towards a more sustainable future for all.

Driving the world’s energy transition

“The Earth’s future is at stake, and it needs emerging economies to transition to greener and cleaner energy systems” according to Dr. Nasser Saidi, Founder and Chairman of the Clean Energy Business Council, a non-profit, non-governmental association that brings together leading local and international organizations in the MENA clean energy sector from both the private and public spheres.

He continued: “I am a firm believer that the GCC can take centre stage in the global energy transition. As the GCC undertakes massive investments in renewable energy and moves towards achieving its NZE goals, not only can the GCC leverage its advantageous location at the heart of the global sunbelt and secure pole position as lowest cost producer of solar power, but the region’s experience with developing and using climate tech could also help export technologies such as desalination, district cooling and desert agriculture.”

“The region’s financial centres have the resources and expertise to become international centres for climate, green and blue finance – investment with positive impacts on the oceans. This will…[not only] accelerate the GCC’s energy transition and economic diversification plans… [but also] build on existing and growing trade and investment relations that the GCC has with emerging nations, especially Africa & Asia,” said Dr. Saidi.

Role of technology in promoting sustainable urban development

Consumers today are increasingly conscious of their purchasing choices and their impact in the long-term. A reflection of this can be seen in the trends related to smart living technologies. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI), touchless technology, smart thermostats, and health tech, smart living technologies not only offer convenience but also contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. 

At the Summit, Dr. Chao Wang, Founder and CEO of Ambilight, a world-leading electrochromic technology developer will share insights into “how our electrochromic technology is at the forefront of shaping the future of urban living by making it more comfortable, efficient, sustainable, and user-centric.”

“Our vision is to usher in a new era where technology harmoniously integrates with urban life, creating environments that are not just smarter but also more enriching and enjoyable for everyone,” he continued.

The Earth’s future is at stake, and it needs emerging economies to transition to greener and cleaner energy systems

Touching on his outlook for smart living, Dr. Wang shared that: “The smart living industry and sustainable urban planning in 2024 will be characterized by the integration of smart glass solutions into urban landscapes. These solutions not only enhance comfort and well-being but also contribute significantly to environmental sustainability, aligning perfectly with the principles of ESG. As more glass becomes an integral part of cities, it is imperative that it becomes smarter and greener, ensuring that people can enjoy comfortable, natural environments while upholding a commitment to a more sustainable and eco-conscious future. We hope everyone can enjoy natural light.”

Looking further ahead, Dr. Wang added: “In the next 5-10 years, smart living technologies are expected to undergo significant development, transformation, and innovation, which will also bring about changes to urban areas. Smart living technologies will shape urban areas in the next 5-10 years by creating smart cities, transportation, homes, and agriculture. These technologies will also help to promote economic development for different regions by reducing costs, improving efficiency, creating new businesses and markets, improving people’s living standards and quality of life, and promoting sustainable urban development.”           

Michael Sheren, President of MVGX, a leading green fintech group, and Former Chairman of G20, is a Summit speaker on transforming the energy landscape through alliances in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. He believes that “there should be an ongoing conversation between the G20 countries and emerging markets on how to provide them [emerging markets] with a just, fair and deserving climate resilient economy led by key infrastructure projects starting with renewable energy,”

“At the SuperBridge Summit Dubai, I’m looking forward to interacting with a collection of conviction driven experienced professionals and experts looking to provide ideas and solutions on the important issues of our time,” he continued.

Exploring transformative opportunity at the summit

With 2023 declared as the Year of Sustainability in the UAE, the SuperBridge Summit Dubai will aim to dive deeper into similar trends that are driving developed and emerging economies on their green energy transition journeys, while advancing climate finance opportunities. This will be an important area of focus for us as the Summit will ignite, connect and unite future-minded, action-oriented leaders from the world’s fastest growing economies to explore transformative opportunities across the world.

The inaugural SuperBridge Summit, taking place from 16-17 October 2023 at Dubai’s iconic Museum of the Future will be a unique platform converging more than 500 investors, business, government, policy and cultural leaders from 20 countries to accelerate investment and co-creation opportunities in hitherto untapped and under-explored markets.

A pioneering initiative by KAOUN International, a subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), and the SuperBridge Council, the SuperBridge Summit Dubai will be held in partnership with the 43rd edition of GITEX Global, the world’s largest and most influential tech event hosted in Dubai, attracting tech executives and investors from 170 countries.

More information is available at www.SuperBridgeDubai.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of SuperBridge Summit Dubai.

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As global power structures shift, Invest Africa convenes The Africa Debate 2026 to redefine partnership in a changing world

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The Africa Debate 2026 will provide a platform for this essential, era-defining discussion, convening leaders to explore how Africa and its partners can build more balanced, resilient and sustainable models of cooperation

LONDON, United Kingdom, February 5, 2026/APO Group/ –As African economies assert greater agency in a rapidly evolving global order, Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com) is delighted to announce The Africa Debate 2026, its flagship investment forum, taking place at the historic Guildhall in London on 3 June 2026.

Now in its 12th year, The Africa Debate has established itself as London’s premier platform for African investment dialogue since launching in 2014, convening over 800 global decision-makers annually to shape the future of trade, finance, investment, and development across the continent.

Under the theme “Redefining Partnership: Navigating a World in Transition”, this year’s forum will focus on Africa’s response to global economic realignment with greater agency, ambition and economic sovereignty.

The Africa Debate puts Africa’s priorities at the centre of the conversation, moving beyond traditional narratives to focus on ownership, resilience and long-term value creation.

“Volatility is not new to Africa. What is changing is the opportunity to respond with greater agency and ambition,” says Invest Africa CEO Chantelé Carrington.

“This year’s edition of The Africa Debate asks how we strengthen economic sovereignty — from access to capital and investment to financial and industrial policy — so African economies can take greater ownership of their growth. Success will be defined by how effectively we turn disruption into leverage and partnership into shared value.”

The Africa Debate 2026 will provide a platform for this essential, era-defining discussion, convening leaders to explore how Africa and its partners can build more balanced, resilient and sustainable models of cooperation.

Key challenges driving the debate

Core focus areas for this year’s edition of The Africa Debate include:

This year’s edition of The Africa Debate asks how we strengthen economic sovereignty — from access to capital and investment to financial and industrial policy

Global Realignment & New Partnerships

How shifting geopolitical and economic power structures are reshaping Africa’s global partnerships, trade dynamics and investment landscape.

Financing Africa’s Future

The growing need to reform the global financial architecture, new approaches to development finance, as well as the strengthening of market access and financial resilience of African economies in a changing global system.

Strategic Value Chains

Moving beyond primary exports to build local value chains in critical minerals for the green economy. Also addressing Africa’s energy access gap and mobilising investment in renewable and transitional energy systems.

Digital Transformation & Technology

Unlocking growth in fintech, AI and digital infrastructure to drive productivity, inclusion, and the next phase of Africa’s economic transformation.

The Africa Debate 2026 offers a unique platform for high-level dialogue, deal-making, and strategic engagement. Attendees will gain actionable insights from leading policymakers, investors and business leaders shaping Africa’s economic future, while building strategic partnerships that define the continent’s next growth phase.

Registration is now open (http://apo-opa.co/46b19gj).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

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Zion Adeoye terminated as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CLG due to serious personal and professional conduct violations

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After a thorough internal and external investigation, along with a disciplinary hearing chaired by Sbongiseni Dube, CLG (https://CLGglobal.com) has made the decision to terminate Zion Adeoye due to serious personal and professional conduct violations. This process adhered to the Code of Good Practice of the Labour Relations Act, ensuring fairness, transparency, and compliance with South African law.

Mr. Adeoye has been held accountable for several serious offenses, including:

  • Making malicious and defamatory statements against colleagues
  • Extortion
  • Intimidation
  • Fraud
  • Misuse of company funds
  • Theft and misappropriation of funds
  • Breach of fiduciary duty
  • Mismanagement

His actions are in direct contradiction to our firm’s core values. We do not approve of attorneys spending time in a Gentleman’s Club. CLG deeply regrets the impact this situation has had on our colleagues and continues to provide full support to those affected.

We want to express our gratitude to those who spoke up and to reassure everyone at the firm of our unwavering commitment to maintaining a respectful workplace. Misconduct of any kind is unacceptable and will be addressed decisively.

We recognize the seriousness of this matter and have referred it to the appropriate law enforcement, regulatory, and legal authorities in Nigeria, Mauritius, and South Africa. We kindly ask that the privacy of the third party involved be respected.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.

 

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The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Strengthens Partnership with the Republic of Djibouti through US$35 Million Financing Facility

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This facility forms part of the US$600 million, three-year Framework Agreement signed in May 2023 between ITFC and the Republic of Djibouti, reflecting the strong and growing partnership between both parties

JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, February 5, 2026/APO Group/ –The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (https://www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, has signed a US$35 million sovereign financing facility with the Republic of Djibouti to support the development of the country’s bunkering services sector and strengthen its position as a strategic regional maritime and trade hub.

The facility was signed at the ITFC Headquarters in Jeddah by Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, Chief Executive Officer of ITFC, and H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, Minister of Economy and Finance in charge of Industry of the Republic of Djibouti.

The financing facility is expected to contribute to Djibouti’s economic growth and revenue diversification by reinforcing the competitiveness and attractiveness of the Djibouti Port as a “one-stop port” offering comprehensive vessel-related services. With Red Sea Bunkering (RSB) as the Executing Agency, the facility will support the procurement of refined petroleum products, thus boosting RSB’s bunkering operations, enhancing revenue diversification, and consolidating Djibouti’s role as a key logistics and trading hub in the Horn of Africa and the wider region.

We look forward to deepening this partnership, creating new opportunities, and leveraging collaborative programs to advance key sectors and drive sustainable economic growth

Commenting on the signing, Eng. Adeeb Yousuf Al-Aama, CEO of ITFC, stated:

“This financing reflects ITFC’s continued commitment to supporting Djibouti’s strategic development priorities, particularly in strengthening energy security, port competitiveness, and trade facilitation. We are proud to deepen our partnership with the Republic of Djibouti and contribute to sustainable economic growth and regional integration.”

H.E. Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh, Minister of Economy and Finance in charge of Industry of the Republic of Djibouti, commented: “Today’s signing marks an important milestone in the development of Djibouti’s bunkering services and reflects our strong and valued partnership with ITFC, particularly in the oil and gas sector. This collaboration supports our ambition to position Djibouti as a regional hub for integrated maritime and logistics services. We look forward to deepening this partnership, creating new opportunities, and leveraging collaborative programs to advance key sectors and drive sustainable economic growth.”

This facility forms part of the US$600 million, three-year Framework Agreement signed in May 2023 between ITFC and the Republic of Djibouti, reflecting the strong and growing partnership between both parties.

Since its inception in 2008, ITFC and the Republic of Djibouti have maintained a strong partnership, with a total of US$1.8 billion approved primarily supporting the country’s energy sector and trade development objectives.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

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