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Tribute Portfolio Marks Its Debut in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit with the Opening of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

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The communal spirit of the Maasai is reflected in the hotel’s design, with shared spaces like outdoor dining areas and a central bonfire encouraging interaction and connection

KARATU, Tanzania, March 5, 2025/APO Group/ –Tribute Portfolio – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s (www.Marriott.com) growing collection of characterful, independent hotels – welcomes its first safari lodge with the launch of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Karatu, Tanzania. Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a protected territory in Tanzania’s Arusha region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this property seamlessly combines modern comfort with an authentic connection to the land and the Maasai culture.

With easy access to some of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Serengeti National Parks the property offers a sanctuary for travellers seeking an immersive and unforgettable safari experience.

“Turaco Ngorongoro Valley marks an exciting milestone as the first Tribute Portfolio property in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International. “This opening brings to life the brand’s passion for exceptional design and heartfelt service, offering a unique stay that reflects the untamed spirit of its destination. We’re thrilled to introduce this exceptional lodge to travellers seeking connection, culture, and adventure.”

Drawing inspiration from the traditional Maasai boma, the hotel’s architecture reflects the circular structures and pitched roofs that define the region’s heritage. The property features 37 suites, including 34 executive suites and three presidential suites, blending natural materials like wood and stone with vibrant Maasai-inspired accents. Elements such as wood-burning fireplaces and intricate detailing create a warm and inviting atmosphere, immersing guests in the local culture. The communal spirit of the Maasai is reflected in the hotel’s design, with shared spaces like outdoor dining areas and a central bonfire encouraging interaction and connection.

Guests can savour farm-to-table dining at Caldera Restaurant, which celebrates the region’s rich flavours with ingredients sourced from the on-site farm. N Bar offers craft cocktails, including the signature Tanzanian Dawa, in a stylish yet cosy setting with a piano and billiards table, while the poolside Maji Maji Bar provides light bites and refreshments among serene surroundings.

Turaco Ngorongoro Valley marks an exciting milestone as the first Tribute Portfolio property in Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit

Guests can immerse themselves in Tanzania’s natural beauty and cultural heritage through a variety of unique experiences. The Ngorongoro Crater Safari offers guests the opportunity to see an abundance of wildlife including the Big Five – elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, lions, and leopards – amidst breathtaking scenery. Guests can reconnect with nature as they explore lush greenery and diverse ecosystems during expertly guided forest walks. Alternately, they can explore the Endoro Trail, which leads to the fascinating Elephant Caves, showcasing ancient rock formations shaped over millennia. Maasai cultural activities, such as storytelling sessions, traditional dances, and village visits, offer guests a window into ancient traditions and a deeper understanding of the local community’s way of life.

Wellness and leisure are integral to the experience, with amenities that include a pool that mimics the natural shape of a watering hole; a jacuzzi, fitness centre, and a spa, where locally inspired therapies help restore balance and rejuvenation. A recreation area with a classic snooker table offers moments of relaxed enjoyment, while The Point, the lodge’s panoramic viewing deck, allows guests to soak in the incredible landscapes.

Ali Jivraj, Co-Founder of Turaco Collection, says: “Our goal is to create a space where guests can truly unwind, reconnect with nature, and immerse themselves in the local culture. From the vibrant design inspired by Maasai traditions to the curated experiences that celebrate the beauty of Tanzania, every detail has been crafted to ensure a memorable and meaningful stay.”

Sustainability lies at the heart of Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. Solar energy and efficient waste management reduce the environmental footprint, while farm-to-table dining highlights the freshness of locally grown produce. Guests can join the lodge’s “Make the Green Choice” initiative, conserving energy, and water by opting out of daily linen changes.

The property supports various community initiatives, including the Kilimani Pre and Primary School, where it funds new classrooms, a kitchen, and staff facilities, while offering guests the opportunity to donate books and supplies. Guests can also purchase an additional bag of firewood for $20, with all proceeds going to local women to support their livelihoods.

Turaco Ngorongoro Valley, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel offers airport shuttles to and from Arusha Airport (140km away), and Kilimanjaro International Airport (204km away).

For more information or to book your stay, visit www.Marriott.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

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Business

Aurionpro expands its multi-country transaction banking engagement with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB)

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Aurionpro

Aurionpro’s upgraded iCashpro platform for DTB delivers a unified digital experience across payments, trade, virtual accounts, and real-time reporting, enhancing straight-through processing, visibility, and control for both the bank and its corporate customers

MUMBAI, India, April 30, 2026/APO Group/ –Aurionpro Solutions Limited (www.AurionPro.com) (BSE: 532668 | NSE: AURIONPRO)a global leader in banking technology, announced the expansion and upgrade of its transaction banking engagement with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), to modernize and enhance the bank’s corporate transaction banking capabilities across multiple countries.

Download Document: https://apo-opa.co/4edHUaC

This multi-country transaction banking upgrade covering Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania aligns with DTB’s intent to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and support growing transaction volumes as it expands its regional corporate banking footprint. DTB continues to focus on building a more agile, ‘digital-first’ banking experience, particularly around payments for its corporate customers across Africa, and is now well positioned to scale these capabilities. As part of its broader transformation agenda, the bank has been steadily investing in platforms that enhance scale, reliability, and service consistency across markets.

Through this partnership, we are proud to lead the next era of transformation in transaction banking, helping DTB enhance operational agility

Aurionpro’s upgraded iCashpro platform for DTB delivers a unified digital experience across payments, trade, virtual accounts, and real-time reporting, enhancing straight-through processing, visibility, and control for both the bank and its corporate customers. By enabling DTB to standardize and scale its transaction banking operations across countries, the platform ensures consistent service levels, stronger control, and improved efficiency. It also supports enhanced user experience, advanced security, and the flexibility to introduce new features as DTB expands its regional transaction banking footprint.

Murali Natarajan (https://apo-opa.co/48trPdk), Managing Director & CEO, DTB Kenya   commented: “We are delighted to strengthen and broaden our partnership with Aurionpro Solutions as part of DTB’s ongoing digital transformation journey across multiple markets. Our focus on innovation, operational excellence, and customer-centricity continues to guide our technology investments. This upgrade strengthens our transaction banking capabilities, enabling us to deliver greater value to our customers through robust digital channels and seamlessly integrated experiences.”

Ashish Rai, Group CEO, Aurionpro Solutions, commented: “We are pleased to deepen our multi-country engagement with Diamond Trust Bank and support the next phase of its transaction banking modernization. As DTB continues to scale across markets, platform resilience and consistency become paramount. Through this partnership, we are proud to lead the next era of transformation in transaction banking, helping DTB enhance operational agility, deliver superior experiences to corporate customers, and create long-term value across geographies.”

He added, “Aurionpro’s iCashpro lays a strong digital foundation for transaction & wholesale banks across the globe to grow their corporate and SME client portfolio today, while creating a clear roadmap for next- generation capabilities in AI-driven insights, advanced automation and API-led connectivity for businesses in Kenya and across Africa.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Aurionpro Solutions Ltd.

 

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Minerals Council Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Joins African Mining Week (AMW) as South Africa Improves Sectorial Investment Climate

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Energy Capital

Minerals Council CEO to share insights on policy, infrastructure and investment trends shaping South Africa’s mining industry

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 30, 2026/APO Group/ –The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference will feature Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council of South Africa, as a speaker. Scheduled for October 14 – 16, 2026 in Cape Town, the event will bring together global investors, policymakers and industry leaders, with Mthenjane’s participation highlighting the council’s commitment to engaging international stakeholders and promoting investment across South Africa’s mining sector.

His participation comes at a critical moment as the Minerals Council works closely with government on finalizing the Mineral Resources Development Bill 2025, a policy framework aimed at strengthening the country’s mining investment climate and the sector’s contribution to GDP. According to the council, the revised legislation will support new investment across the value chain as South Africa seeks to mobilize R2 trillion over the next five years to unlock its critical minerals potential.

The policy reforms come amid shifting production trends in the sector. In 2025, South Africa recorded declines in gold and platinum group metals output of 1.9% and 4.1%, respectively. The new regulatory framework is expected to strengthen public-private partnerships and stimulate investment, enabling South Africa to increase production and capitalize on strong global commodity prices. Increased private sector investments is crucial with South Africa seeking targeting to unlock an estimated R40 trillion in untapped iron ore potential as well as maintain its position as the world’s leading producer of chrome and manganese.

At AMW 2026, Mthenjane is expected to outline these trends, providing insights into how the council is contributing to addressing challenges disrupting the sector. Infrastructure and energy costs remain key concerns for industry players. To support the energy-intensive sector, South Africa approved a 35% reduction in electricity tariffs for major ferrochrome producers, helping stabilize an industry that has faced significant cost pressures after electricity prices surged by roughly 900% since 2008.

Logistics constraints are also a priority area for reform. South Africa’s economy is losing an estimated R1 billion per day due to inefficiencies across rail and port infrastructure. As a result, the government is considering measures supported by the Minerals Council to increase private sector participation in logistics. Planned reforms include rail modernization initiatives targeting 250 million tons of freight capacity by 2029, alongside port upgrades and private operator participation aimed at strengthening mineral exports and improving supply chain efficiency.

Beyond infrastructure and policy reforms, the Minerals Council is advocating for stronger exploration investment to support long-term industry growth.

At AMW, Mthenjane is expected to highlight these developments and outline the steps required to reinforce South Africa’s position in the global minerals supply chain. His insights will offer investors and stakeholders a timely perspective on opportunities within the country’s mining sector.

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

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Seychelles Targets Energy Investment Push as Minister Jérémie Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as a Speaker

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African Energy Chamber

Seychelles energy minister will speak at AEW 2026, positioning her to highlight reforms, renewable projects and investment opportunities as the island nation advances its transition toward a diversified energy system

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, April 29, 2026/APO Group/ –Marie-May Jérémie, Minister of Environment, Climate, Energy and Natural Resources for Seychelles will participate as a speaker at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place from October 12–16 in Cape Town. Her participation underscores the country’s growing role in shaping Africa’s small-island energy transition agenda.

Minister Jérémie’s presence at AEW 2026 comes at a critical time as Seychelles accelerates efforts to reduce its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. The event provides a platform to attract investment, strengthen policy alignment and showcase bankable projects, positioning the country as a viable destination for private-sector participation in island energy systems.

Seychelles is demonstrating how policy reform and innovation can unlock investment in constrained environments

In May last year, international finance institution the World Bank approved the Renewable Energy Acceleration Program, a seven-year initiative aimed at modernizing the grid and increasing renewable energy penetration to 15% by 2030. The program focuses on unlocking private capital while strengthening transmission infrastructure to accommodate variable renewable energy sources.

Project development is gaining traction in the country, particularly in innovative technologies suited to Seychelles’ land constraints. The 5.8 MW Seysun Lagoon floating solar PV project, developed by independent renewable power producer Qair, is under construction and expected online in 2026.

Alongside renewables, Seychelles continues to pursue upstream opportunities to diversify its economy. The government approved new exploration entrants in 2025 and extended exiting petroleum agreements, while securing an infrastructure partnership with China. Multilateral estimates suggest over $800 million in investment will be required over the next 25 years.

Regulatory reform is central to this transition, with Seychelles introducing an independent power producer framework to open the market to private developers. Standardized power purchase agreements, grid access reforms and strengthened public-private partnership structures are being implemented to improve transparency, reduce risk and accelerate project bankability across solar, storage and emerging wind opportunities.

“Minister Jérémie’s participation highlights the strategic importance of island nations in Africa’s broader energy transition,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber. “Seychelles is demonstrating how policy reform and innovation can unlock investment in constrained environments. Her insights will be critical to advancing dialogue on resilient, low-carbon energy systems across the continent.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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