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Realise your creative vision with Canon’s RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM and SPEEDLITE EL-5

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Canon

Fast and bright, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM and SPEEDLITE EL-5 offer portrait and event photographers more creative freedom

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 4, 2022/APO Group/ — 

Canon Europe today announces the launch of the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM, a telephoto prime lens ideal for shooting portraits in low-light and the SPEEDLITE EL-5, a high-performance Speedlite for capturing weddings and events. A fast, bright f/1.8 aperture and built-in optical image stabilizer enable the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM to capture crisp images with a soft background, while the longer focal length creates flattering portraits. Offering the same intuitive design as the EL-1 and advanced performance at a competitive price, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 is the perfect accessory for professional photographers. Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com) is also announcing a Neural Network Image Processing tool will be added to its DPP software, enabling photographers to improve the quality of the images they capture.

Capture stand-out portraits with the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM

The successor of the popular Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM achieves striking portraits thanks to the combination of a fast f/1.8, 9-blade aperture and 135mm focal length that create a beautiful bokeh effect, while compressing subject features for more flattering shots. This also creates a more comfortable and relaxed shooting environment thanks to the additional distance between subject and photographer, for natural looking photos whether capturing tight headshots or full body shots. The RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM is also perfect for close shooting, with a focusing distance of 0.7m that gives a 0.26x magnification. RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM also employs an Optical Image Stabiliser for up to 5.5 stops of stabilization, which increases to 8 stops with co-ordinated stabilization[i], which is ideal when shooting in low light or hand-held.

As with Canon’s entire RF lens range, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM delivers exceptional image quality across the entire frame. The advanced optical design features three UD elements to ensure high resolution, accurate colour reproduction and reduce chromatic aberrations. With ASC and Super Spectra Coating, the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM also benefits from minimal ghosting or flare, while the fluorine coating helps to keep the lens free from dirt for sharp images every time.

The RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM offers effortless operation and handling, to support photographers in high-pressure shooting scenarios such as weddings or live sporting events. A Nano USM motor enables fast and quiet AF operation, which, coupled with Canon’s Eye AF feature[ii], ensures the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM accurately focuses on the subject’s eye so that the photographer can concentrate on the composition – useful when shooting with a shallow depth-of-field. The RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM is Canon’s first ever lens, other than super-telephoto lenses, to feature two Lens Function buttons, which can be used for AF-stop function or other features. A Control Ring can also be customised to change various settings from the lens such as shutter speed, aperture or ISO. Dust and water-resistant seals around the lens mount ensure reliability in any shooting conditions.

SPEEDLITE EL-5: Powerful, yet easy-to-use Speedlite

Packed full of professional features, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 is a high-performance, reliable Speedlite that is a must have for the kit bag of any event photographer. Featuring a Guide Number of 60[iii] and a blisteringly fast flash recycle time of 0.1-1.2 seconds [iv], it’s never been easier to illuminate action-packed events such parties or weddings. Likewise, the rechargeable Li-ion Battery Pack LP-EL enables a long continuous flash count at up to 85 flashes at full power, and up to 350 flashes in a single charge, at full power[v]. For more subtle lighting requirements, the extended manual power setting enables users to set the flash to 1/1024th power[vi].

Canon’s first Speedlite to feature a Multi-Function foot that is compatible with the latest EOS R series cameras[vii], the SPEEDLITE EL-5 uses gold plated contacts to ensure a reliable connection with the camera and improved communication. For reliable performance even when shooting with flash for long periods of time, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 is designed with an efficient passive cooling system that allows heat to dissipate more quickly. When shooting in adverse weather conditions, the dust and water resistance seals give photographers confidence in their kit.

Built for professional workflows, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 offers a number of features such as wireless radio control for up to 15 additional Speedlites and a Camera Link function that allows photographers to trigger external cameras connected to these Speedlites. The Dual White LED light acts as modelling light or AF assist lamp, to support focusing in low light situations. With the custom flash mode (C.Flash), users can register flash settings (C1, C2, C3) on the Speedlite and can also ‘link’ these to the camera’s custom modes[viii], which act as a pre-set to speed up workflows in more complex environments. With the same intuitive design and menu system as the EL-1, the SPEEDLITE EL-5 offers a familiar joystick and button layout along with a new (Flash) Menu Direct button for easy access to the Speedlite settings menu on the camera.

DPP Cloud Upgrade

Canon has also bolstered its Digital Photo Professional software for advanced photographers, with a new subscription-based Neural Network Image Processing tool that enhances image quality through the power of cloud computing and Canon’s advanced AI technology. Photographers are able to reduce noise, while restoring detail and sharpness, previously not possible at such a high ISO, improve colour accuracy and benefit from lens optimisation.

Also launching today is EOS R6 Mark II, a full-frame mirrorless camera that delivers innovative ways for hybrid shooters to master their creativity – without compromise and no matter what the subject. Capable of continuous shooting at 40fps and featuring Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF to recognize and track more subjects at greater speed, EOS R6 Mark II sets new speed records. A true hybrid, it can also capture superb oversampled 4K 60p video or 6K RAW.

For more information about the RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM please visit: https://bit.ly/3Dyu1Qp

Further details about the SPEEDLITE EL-5 are available here: https://bit.ly/3DwcbNQ

RF 135mm F1.8L IS USM key features:

  • Fast f/1.8, 9-blade circular aperture
  • 135mm focal length
  • 5.5 stops of stabilization (8 stops with IBIS)
  • Advanced optical design featuring three UD elements, ASC and Super Spectra Coating
  • Nano USM motor for fast and quiet AF

SPEEDLITE EL-5 key features:

  • Guide Number of 60, with integrated modelling light
  • Fast flash recycle time of 0.1-1.2 secondsiv
  • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery Pack LP-EL
  • Canon’s first Speedlite to feature a Multi-Function foot
  • Wireless radio control for up to 15 additional Speedlites

The advanced optical design features three UD elements to ensure high resolution, accurate colour reproduction and reduce chromatic aberrations


[i] With compatible cameras with in-body Image Stabilisation.

[ii] With compatible cameras.

[iii] When camera is set to ISO100 and zoomed to 200mm.

[iv] Using a fully charged battery under Canon testing conditions.

[v] Using a fully charged battery under Canon testing conditions. Continuous flash count at full output until flash firing restriction Level 1.

[vi] Minimum flash output is 1/128 for high-speed sync.

[vii] For use with compatible cameras with Canon’s Multi-Function shoe. Note, not all functions may be supported with all cameras (the EOS R5 C and camcorders with the Multi-Function shoe are not supported).

[viii] With compatible cameras.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Energy

High-Level Minister Roundup to Headline African Energy Week 2026

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African Energy Chamber

African Energy Week 2026 will convene ministers from Algeria, Ghana, Senegal, Zambia and Niger to spotlight oil, gas expansion, reforms and investment opportunities continentwide

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 13, 2026/APO Group/ –A high-level ministerial roundup will take center stage at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 – taking place in Cape Town from 12–16 October –, convening some of the continent’s most influential energy leaders at a defining moment for Africa’s oil, gas and power sectors. As hydrocarbon expansion converges with accelerating energy transition strategies, the gathering is set to spotlight real-time project execution, regulatory reform and cross-border infrastructure that are actively reshaping Africa’s energy future.

 

Confirmed ministers to date include Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies Mourad Adjal, Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, Senegal’s Minister of Energy, Petroleum and Mines Birame Soulèye Diop, Zambia’s Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote and Niger’s Minster of Petroleum Hamadou Tinni.

 

Fresh from a March OPEC+ decision to lift output to 977,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd), Algeria enters AEW 2026 amid a $60 billion sector transformation. The country is also advancing a 500-well exploration drive and accelerating its 1.48 GW “Project of the Century” solar rollout. Gas exports to Europe remains central to the country, supported by hydrogen corridor planning and refinery expansion aimed at boosting capacity to 50 million tons by 2029.

 

Following license extension for Jubilee and TEN to 2040 and the late-2025 restart of the Tema Oil Refinery, Ghana is pushing a $3.5 billion upstream reinvestment plan while settling $500 million in gas arrears. A 1,200 MW state thermal plant and expanded gas processing at Atuabo anchor its gas-to-power shift, alongside a renewed upstream push in the Voltaian Basin.

The participation of these distinguished ministers underscores the scale of opportunity unfolding across Africa’s energy landscape and the urgency of aligning policy with capital

 

Senegal’s delegation comes on the back of strong production momentum, with the Sangomar oil field delivering 36.1 million barrels in 2025, outperforming forecasts, while the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG development ramped up to 2.9 million tons per annum following first gas. Dakar is now prioritizing domestic gas through refinery upgrades at the SAR refinery and preparations for Sangomar Phase 2 to push output beyond 100,000 bpd.

 

Zambia is redefining its power mix after drought-induced hydro shortfalls. New solar capacity – including the 200 MW Chisamba expansion and 136 MW Itimpi Phase 2 – is part of a broader 2,500 MW diversification drive. Cabinet has approved major regional fuel pipelines, while the Energy Single Licensing System fast-tracks approvals. Lusaka targets 10 GW generation by 2030, with solar and wind rising to one-third of supply.

Niger’s presence reflects its emergence as a serious oil exporter, with the fully operational 1,950-km Niger-Benin pipeline now moving up to 90,000 bpd to international markets. Alongside uranium expansion and renewed cooperation with Algeria on upstream assets, Niamey is advancing digital oversight reforms and reinforcing energy sovereignty amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.

 

“The participation of these distinguished ministers underscores the scale of opportunity unfolding across Africa’s energy landscape and the urgency of aligning policy with capital,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. “Their leadership reflects a continent moving decisively from strategy to execution, creating a platform where investors can engage directly with the policymakers shaping Africa’s next wave of oil, gas and energy growth.”

 

At AEW 2026, this ministerial cohort will be well-positioned to offer investors direct insight into Africa’s most dynamic energy markets – where new barrels, new pipelines and new megawatts are reshaping regional growth trajectories in real time.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Business

Enlit Africa 2026 Programme: 280+ speakers, African nuclear 2.0, Bruce Whitfield Business Breakfast

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Enlit Africa

The event, taking place 19-21 May 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, expects 7,200+ attendees and 250+ exhibitors, making it Africa’s largest gathering of energy and water professionals

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, March 12, 2026/APO Group/ –Enlit Africa (https://apo-opa.co/4cEX08g) has released its full 2026 conference programme, featuring 280+ speakers across 8 specialised tracks including a new African Nuclear 2.0 session covering Koeberg’s 20-year life extension and Ghana’s nuclear vendor selection process.

 

The event, taking place 19-21 May 2026 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, expects 7,200+ attendees and 250+ exhibitors, making it Africa’s largest gathering of energy and water professionals.

Award-winning business journalist and best-selling author Bruce Whitfield will deliver the opening address at the Project & Investment Network Business Breakfast on 19 May, kicking off three days of strategic sessions, deal-making platforms, and technical masterclasses.

New programme content includes:

African Nuclear 2.0 – A dedicated session examining the transition from planning to execution, featuring:

Koeberg Nuclear Power Station’s successful 20-year life extension (Units 1 and 2 now licensed until 2044/2045)

Ghana’s progression to Phase 3 of its nuclear programme, evaluating US, Chinese, and Russian technology bids

West African Power Pool‘s 10 GW regional nuclear capacity target

Small Modular Reactor (SMR) deployment readiness across African grids

Independent Transmission Projects (ITP) – A new session exploring how private investment is unlocking Africa’s transmission bottleneck, featuring global case studies from India’s PowerGrid and lessons for scaling grid capacity across the continent.

Generation Masterclasses – Five interactive roundtables on gas-to-power, nuclear, hydro power, clean coal, and hydrogen.

AI in Africa’s Power Grid – Examining practical deployment realities, real-time analytics, and predictive maintenance applications already in operation across African utilities.

Conference sessions and technical hub sessions on the expo floor are CPD-accredited by the South African Institute of Electrical Engineers (SAIEE) and the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE).

Co-located platforms:

Water Security Africa features country playbooks from Namibia (55-year potable reuse programme), Uganda (NRW reduction from 42% to 32%), Cape Town (Day Zero recovery strategies), and sector-specific stewardship sessions with Harmony Gold, Heineken, Mediclinic, and Growthpoint Properties.

Project & Investment Network (P&IN), part of the new Level 2 Executive Experience, connects project developers, investors, African utility CEOs, and DFIs through structured matchmaking, ministerial dialogues, and project briefings. Over the past two years, P&IN has facilitated $3 billion in project pitches.

Utility CEO Forum brings together 35+ confirmed utility CEOs under Chatham House Rule for candid, off-the-record strategic discussions on unbundling, prosumer management, and financial sustainability.

Municipal Forum addresses South African municipalities’ distribution, metering, and revenue challenges, including sessions on NRW management, tariff reform, Cost of Supply studies, and electrifying informal settlements.

Technical Hub sessions on the exhibition floor offer free, CPD-accredited training across Power, Renewable Energy & Storage, and Water tracks, with confirmed speakers from Eskom, ENGIE SA, ACTOM, National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA), RenEnergy, and Matla Energy.

Site visits on 22 May include Koeberg Nuclear Power Station and the V&A Waterfront desalination plant.

Pass options:
Free expo pass registration: https://apo-opa.co/4bl2bYu

Free expo passes provide access to 250+ exhibitors and CPD-accredited Technical Hub sessions.

Delegate Pass:
Early bird registration closes 3 April 2026. Delegate passes start at R15,100 (Silver), with P&IN Executive passes at R32,000 including access to the Bruce Whitfield breakfast, Level 2 executive lounge, and investor matchmaking.

Download the full programme: https://apo-opa.co/3NwCble

Register: https://apo-opa.co/4cEX08g

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

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Business

Binance Secures Second Major Legal Victory in U.S. Court Under Anti-Terrorism Act in Two Weeks

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Binance

US Federal Court in Alabama Dismisses All Claims Against Binance in Latest Lawsuit Victory

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, March 12, 2026/APO Group/ –Binance (www.Binance.com), the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, announced today that a U.S. federal court in Alabama has dismissed all claims against the company in a lawsuit alleging violations of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). This marks Binance’s second major legal victory in an  ATA matter within one week, following their victory in the Southern District of New York.

A Full and Complete Legal Victory

In a detailed 19-page ruling, the Court found the plaintiffs’ complaint to be legally and factually deficient. The court’s decision to dismiss every claim across the board represents a decisive legal victory for Binance.

Sanctions compliance and terrorism financing are serious matters of law – they require evidence, legal rigour, and due process

The judge described the filing as a “shotgun pleading.” The complaint failed to clearly specify the claims and improperly grouped all defendants together without distinguishing individual conduct or liability. The ruling also emphasized that the plaintiffs did not meet the basic pleading standard to provide a “short and plain statement” of their claims.

Following the ruling, the court granted the plaintiffs until April 10, 2026, to file an amended complaint addressing the deficiencies identified. However, the judge warned that failure to adequately address these issues would result in dismissal of the entire case.

Building on Momentum and Upholding Legal Integrity

“This decision reinforces our unwavering commitment to protecting Binance and our community from unsubstantiated and bad-faith lawsuits,” shared Eleanor Hughes, General Counsel at Binance. “Sanctions compliance and terrorism financing are serious matters of law – they require evidence, legal rigour, and due process. Courts have now examined these claims on two separate occasions and found them to be without merit. These outcomes speak for themselves. We will not tolerate attempts to misuse the legal system to target our industry, and we remain as committed as ever to transparency, security, and lawful conduct in everything we do”.

This latest decision follows closely on the heels of Binance’s comprehensive victory in New York (https://apo-opa.co/46Xg0ev), where the Court similarly rejected allegations that the company assisted, participated in, or conspired with terrorists. Together, these rulings reflect Binance’s strong resolve to protect its platform and community.

Binance has consistently invested in industry-leading compliance infrastructure, regulatory engagement, and legal governance. The company will continue to vigorously defend itself against any attempts to bring unfounded claims or misrepresent its operations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Binance.

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