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Namibia’s NAMCOR Talks Becoming Energy Self-Sufficient

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NAMCOR

In an exclusive interview with ECP, NAMCOR – the national oil company of Namibia – discusses its long-term strategic plan to establish value-added industries and secure its energy future

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 15, 2024/APO Group/ — 

As the national oil company of Namibia, NAMCOR is committed to harnessing the country’s full hydrocarbon potential and is currently working with operators to appraise recent offshore discoveries. Last September, Energy Capital & Power (https://EnergyCapitalPower.com) spoke with Former Managing Director Shiwana Ndeunyema about NAMCOR’s new long-term strategic plan, which aims to leverage oil and gas reserves to establish associated mid- and downstream industries, with a view to achieving domestic energy security, reducing petroleum imports and becoming an integrated energy player.

What are NAMCOR’s current areas of focus? 

NAMCOR is a dynamic entity poised to make a significant impact on the global energy landscape. Our vision is to transform into an international energy company, leveraging on the recent oil finds while honoring the dual priority associated with the global energy transition. As an integrated player in the energy sector, NAMCOR is actively engaged in the upstream and downstream sectors, with a recent focus on sustainable energies.

In the downstream, NAMCOR plays a pivotal role in contributing towards the security of supply of petroleum products for Namibia, in line with the National Energy Policy of 2017. Our downstream focus is on the importation of petroleum products, storage of these products in various NAMCOR-operated strategic storage facilities, supply of product to various B2B commercial customers, including mines and government agencies, as well as the supply of products to NAMCOR-branded retail service stations. NAMCOR’s medium-term goal is to integrate its traditional downstream business with sustainable energies such as solar electrification of our facilities and retail sites, exploring small-scale LNG, etc., in line with our ambition of becoming a fully integrated energy company.

In the upstream space, NAMCOR focuses on its mandate to harness the hydrocarbon potential of Namibia by conducting oil and gas exploration, development and production activities, which we do either alone or with our joint venture partners. Our current focus is on influential participation in the appraisal of the recent oil discoveries, their ESG-conscious development and eventual sustainable production, driving the country’s objectives to ensure maximum derivation of socioeconomic benefits and energy security for our nation and the African nation at-large. In summary, NAMCOR’s trajectory is one of purposeful growth and strategic engagement. We are steadfast in our pursuit of becoming a global energy force, while remaining firmly rooted in our responsibility to fortify energy security for Namibia and Africa.

Is NAMCOR considering expansion outside of the local market?

NAMCOR’s strategic outlook extends beyond its local market, with a focus on exploring expansion opportunities that align with our mission and capabilities. Presently, we have embarked on operations in the export market, specifically through our petroleum product sales, leveraging Namibia’s position as a logistics corridor hub for the Southern African Development Community region. NAMCOR’s upstream expansion in the international arena seeks to accelerate the development of the company’s dynamic capabilities and operatorship experience, while securing long-term revenue in preparation for technical and financial obligations in the Namibian discoveries. To this end, NAMCOR, through its jointly-owned international subsidiary, Sungara Energies, has previously signed a sale and purchase agreement to acquire equity in a robust oil-producing asset in Angola – a transaction that we envision to be completed this year.

What role will alternative fuels play in the commercial and industrial market?

The role of alternative fuels in the commercial and industrial market is an imperative consideration as we navigate the complexities of the global energy landscape. NAMCOR recognizes the significance of these alternative options, which are set to play an increasingly vital role as the world accelerates its transition towards more sustainable energy sources. However, it’s important to acknowledge that this transition doesn’t negate the valuable role that oil and gas will continue to play in driving the socioeconomic growth of Namibia – and specifically, the African economy – through immediate and tangible benefits in terms of energy security, job creation, industrialization, economic development and indirect socioeconomic benefits. Alternative energies present an opportunity for countries like Namibia to harness their sustainable natural resources, such as wind and solar, to develop green hydrogen and other synthetic fuels to become key energy exporters to the regional and international markets, while fueling local development and industrial benefits.

How can oil and gas infrastructure be leveraged to establish a downstream industry in Namibia?

The discoveries present an excellent opportunity for developing, and eventually scaling, Namibia’s upstream oil and gas infrastructure, such as the Kudu gas pipeline and potential LNG facilities – a project whose FID is expected within the next 18 months. It is usual that upstream infrastructure benefits the host country not only in terms of providing tangible benefits in the form of long-term job creation, but also through multiple opportunities for spin-off industries including downstream activities. Specifically related to the gas discovery and the associated gas in the oil discoveries, Namibia is set to become energy self-sufficient through gas-to-power facilities, world-class LNG hubs and other small-scale LNG to service the local mines.

Therefore, upstream oil and gas infrastructure will be a key driver in fostering increased investment in the downstream energy sector. NAMCOR’s position is that a holistic perspective on the entire oil and gas value chain should guide our endeavours to maximize benefits for both the company and the nation. The overarching goal is to optimize the efficiency of these sectors and harness the full potential of both the upstream and downstream energy spaces.

The 2023/2024 financial year marks the fifth and final year of the NAMCOR Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP). We have commenced with the development of a new strategic plan that sets the scene for NAMCOR’s strategic direction. With the recent oil discoveries, the strategic planning horizon will now consider 10-15 years. This new Master Plan creates an opportunity for NAMCOR to leverage the oil discoveries to identify opportunities further midstream and downstream, specifically understanding how a business case can be developed around NAMCOR’s core competencies in the downstream space.

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

Events

The 6th Cross-Strait Sun Yat-sen Forum Successfully Held in Zhongshan, Guangdong

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Sun Yat-sen Forum

ZHONGSHAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – As 2026 marks the 160th anniversary of the birth of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the 6th Cross-Strait Sun Yat-sen Forum was held in Zhongshan, Guangdong Province—the hometown of the great pioneer—from June 27 to 29 under the theme “Carrying Forward Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Spirit of Endeavor and Working Together for the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation”. This year’s forum was the largest in its history, attracting the broadest participation from Taiwan compatriots and the highest proportion of young participants to date. Around 2,000 representatives from across the Chinese mainland, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao attended the event. Centered on cultural heritage and driven by economic and trade cooperation, the forum established a multi-level platform for cross-strait exchanges and collaboration while fostering broader consensus on integrated cross-strait development.

Distinguished guests from both sides of the Taiwan Strait attended the opening ceremony and noted in their remarks that Dr. Sun Yat-sen is a revered national pioneer shared by compatriots on both sides of the Strait. His vision of rejuvenating China remains a common spiritual legacy, and people across the Strait should carry forward his ideals and work hand in hand toward national rejuvenation. During the opening ceremony, Zhongshan Municipal People’s Government and the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland signed the Strategic Framework Agreement on Deepening Zhongshan-Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation to Promote Integrated Development, laying a solid institutional foundation for long-term industrial cooperation across the Strait.

A series of cultural exchange activities also took place throughout the forum. Participants enjoyed an evening tour of the century-old Sunwen West Road Arcade Pedestrian Street, immersing themselves in Zhongshan’s rich historical heritage and the vibrant cultural and tourism scene of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. They also visited the Museum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, where they studied revolutionary historical archives, bowed before Dr. Sun’s bronze statue to pay homage, and gained a deeper appreciation of his enduring ideals of “All Under Heaven Belong to the People” and “Revitalize China”. Many participants remarked that these activities provided an excellent platform for sustained exchanges among young people across the Strait and that their shared cultural roots and common heritage form a solid foundation for advancing cross-strait spiritual integration.

To further strengthen cross-strait economic cooperation and advance industrial integration between Shenzhen and Zhongshan, the forum also featured the “Taiwan Businesses Gather in Zhongshan, Industries Glow in the Greater Bay Area” 2026 Guangdong-Taiwan Economic and Trade Exchange Conference and Investment Promotion Event Celebrating the Second Anniversary of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link. A total of 19 industrial projects were signed during the event. The first group comprised seven Taiwan-invested projects spanning semiconductor supporting industries, electronic components, smart home products, high-end fitness equipment, and medical devices. The second and third groups included 12 Shenzhen-Zhongshan collaborative projects covering new energy vehicle components, industrial robotics, memory chip packaging, advanced specialty materials, and integrated cultural, tourism, and commercial developments.

During the investment promotion event, Taiwan business representatives spoke highly of Zhongshan’s business environment. Zhang Congyuan, Chairman of Huali Industrial Group, which has operated in Zhongshan for more than two decades, praised the city’s enterprise service philosophy of “staying out of businesses’ way when everything runs smoothly while providing prompt support whenever needed”. He noted that this business-friendly environment has helped the company grow into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of athletic footwear.

Guo Wenhai, secretary of the CPC Zhongshan Municipal Committee, extended a sincere invitation to Taiwan businesses and entrepreneurs to invest and establish operations in Zhongshan. He emphasized that the city offers not only strong industrial infrastructure but also high-quality government services. Zhongshan will continue to provide proactive, efficient, and dedicated support for businesses while continuously improving both its hard and soft investment environment. Leveraging the opportunities created by the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, the city aims to create broader prospects for cooperation and shared growth for enterprises from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Participants and Taiwan business representatives agreed that, taking the 160th anniversary of Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s birth as an important milestone, this year’s forum created new channels for both cultural exchanges and industrial cooperation across the Strait. Looking ahead, Zhongshan will continue to organize regular initiatives, including entrepreneurship support programs for young people from Taiwan, youth exchange activities, and Guangdong-Taiwan industrial matchmaking events. By carrying forward Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s spirit, embracing the opportunities of the Greater Bay Area, and strengthening both economic cooperation and people-to-people ties, the city will continue to contribute to a new chapter of integrated cross-strait development.

 

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Toblerone Presents ” The Ultimate Gift “: The Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski

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Swarovski

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – An iconic Swiss chocolate brand meets one of the world’s most celebrated names in crystal artistry to bring ‘Never Square’ to life. Creating something unexpected, something beautiful, and something that gives back: Toblerone today announces The Ultimate Gift.

The centrepiece is the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski: an exceptionally rare series of hand-made crystal replicas of the original Toblerone chocolate bar – the gift many associate with travel. Familiar in form. Remarkable in execution. Individually numbered, certified, and utterly one-of-a-kind.

The Ultimate Gift: A Global Auction for Good

From 1st July to 31st July 2026, travellers passing through some of the world’s most iconic airports (Athens, Delhi, Doha, Dubai, Frankfurt, Madrid, New York JFK, Singapore and Zurich) will encounter a mesmerising pop-up experience celebrating both brands and, above all, will have the chance to bid in person on the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski.

Each auction is linked to the airport’s own established charity partner – organisations already embedded in their local communities and chosen by the airports themselves. 100% of winning bids will be donated to the designated charity at each location.

However, the auction is open to everyone globally. No need to be travelling to take part. Bidding is available online (terms and conditions apply), click here to visit the auction site and here for more information on the charities.

The Story Behind the Crystal Bar

Toblerone was born in Switzerland in 1908. Its triangular shape has made it one of the most recognised silhouettes in the world. For generations of travellers, it has been the gift you bring home: a small but indulgent, reliable piece of Switzerland.

To bring the Toblerone Crystal Bar to life, Toblerone turned to Swarovski. Swarovski delivers a diverse portfolio of unmatched quality, craftsmanship, and creativity. Founded in 1895 in Austria, the company designs, manufactures and markets high-quality crystals and created stones as well as finished products such as jewelry.

The two share more than Alpine geography. They share a belief that quality is not a detail but it is the point. That the things worth making are worth making properly. And that some of the most enduring objects in the world are the ones that manage to be both beautiful and, somehow, completely unpretentious about it.

The result is the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski: Toblerone’s unmistakable triangular form, unapologetically rich on the inside, reimagined as a luxury artefact through Swarovski’s crystal craftsmanship.

Iain Livingston, President Toblerone & World Travel Retail, says: “Toblerone has always been more than a chocolate bar. It’s a ritual, a symbol of travel, and one of the world’s most recognised gifts. Creating the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski feels like a natural expression of who we are: a brand that takes quality seriously but never takes itself too seriously. The Ultimate Gift is exactly that and will raise funds to support brilliant causes that help make the world a better place.”

The Craft Behind the Crystal

Each Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski is exclusively designed and developed using Swarovski’s rich savoir-faire:
Modelled on the original Toblerone chocolate bar & manufactured in Austria
Each weighs 851g and measures 305mm in length
546 individually cut facets per bar
140 hours of development and 65 hours of production – 100% handmade
Crafted with high-precision cutting technology, characterised by unmatched brilliance

The Ultimate Gift Box: Available to All

For those who prefer to take something home immediately, Toblerone is also launching a limited-edition Ultimate Gift Box adorned with Swarovski crystals, available exclusively in World Travel Retail throughout the campaign period across airports globally.

Inside: a Milk Toblerone bar.

Crystals on the outside. Unapologetically rich on the inside. The answer, as ever, to the question every traveller eventually asks themselves at the airport: “Where is my Toblerone?”

 

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Business

Kora highlights the growing importance of payment infrastructure as stablecoin adoption accelerates

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Kora

The conversation is shifting from what is possible to what can be implemented securely, compliantly and efficiently

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, July 1, 2026/APO Group/ –As stablecoins continue to gain traction across the financial services industry, businesses are increasingly focused on the infrastructure required to support their adoption at scale. The conversation is shifting from what is possible to what can be implemented securely, compliantly and efficiently.

 

This was a key theme at Money20/20 Europe 2026, where global fintech leaders gathered to discuss the future of payments. Across the event, discussions centred on artificial intelligence, regulation and reducing fragmentation across global payment systems.

Industry leaders focus on practical implementation 

As businesses explore new payment rails, the need for reliable infrastructure that connects local and global markets becomes even more important

Sessions such as the live Agentic AI demonstrations and the Policy20 regulatory roundtables highlighted the industry’s growing focus on execution rather than experimentation. Stablecoins featured prominently in conversations around faster settlements, lower costs and more efficient cross-border payments.

“Kora is well-positioned for where the industry is heading,” said Tofunmi, Head, Global Partnerships at Kora. “As businesses explore new payment rails, the need for reliable infrastructure that connects local and global markets becomes even more important.”

Connecting Africa to the future of payments 

Money20/20 Europe reinforced the importance of payment infrastructure in enabling the next generation of financial services. Throughout the event, Kora was recognised as a trusted African payment infrastructure provider, with discussions focused on the company’s expansion efforts and growing settlement capabilities.

As demand for faster and more connected payment experiences grows, Kora continues to build the infrastructure that enables businesses to collect, send and settle payments across Africa and globally.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kora.

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