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Two Decades of Magic: Africa Magic Turns 20

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MultiChoice

The platform continues to invest directly and indirectly into the African entertainment industry

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, October 13, 2023/APO Group/ — 

As it marks twenty years of existence, MultiChoice’s (https://www.Multichoice.com/) Africa Magic channel celebrates two decades of significant expansion as a major platform for African content, and an engine for multiplying Africa’s creative talent.

Launched as a single channel showing mainly Nollywood movies in 2003, Africa Magic has since grown to include seven channels for movies, sitcoms, soap operas, telenovelas, music, reality and magazine shows showcasing quality content by Africans for Africans.

The platform continues to invest directly and indirectly into the African entertainment industry and especially Nigeria, providing skills support and training, as well as a platform for new and established entertainment talent to grow and succeed.

Successful Africa Magic productions such as Africa’s Next Top Model, The Voice Nigeria, Big Brother Naija, and the annual Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards have cemented the platform’s position as a provider of premium entertainment tailored to the tastes of its audience.

Africa Magic commissions series, reality shows, programmes and films in the Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo and English languages, and has already created hundreds of thousands of hours of original local content, pumping billions of Naira’s directly into the creative industry and creating several thousand jobs in adjacent industries.

Popular Africa Magic series Tinsel, for instance, has clocked up to 3,600episodes, making it the longest running telenovela in Nigeria, while employing 1,200 staff and crew, and the AMVCA event creates 3 000 direct and indirect jobs every year.

The social impact of Africa Magic goes far beyond its financial investment. The West Africa academy of the MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) in Lagos, for example, is producing the next generation of Nigerian and Ghanaian content professionals.

Through the MTF Academy, the MTF MasterClass Series and the MTF Portal, the platform is already impacting the lives of young film makers, elevating the quality of storytelling and boosting Nigeria’s global image.

We have made an economic impact, but we are equally proud of the social impact that MultiChoice has had

West African MTF alumni are already employed in the industry, having set-up production companies, working to produce local content for the Africa Magic pipeline.

“We understand that the proof of the success of the MultiChoice investment in Nigeria lies in how it improves the quality of people’s lives,” says John Ugbe, CEO of West Africa, MultiChoice. “This is why we invest in people, so that they might multiply the impact we can have through the power of entertainment.”

MTF alumni have moved into production roles in major Africa Magic shows. Uchenna Ugwu has served as head writer on Africa Magic Igbo’s first commissioned TV series, Nwanyị Ike, and worked as a writer and script editor for Wura, the Nigerian adaptation of The River, and Covenant.

Fellow MTF graduates Horla Manuvor Jnr. and Teniola Oyelumade have launched a company, Gray Space, which was commissioned by MultiChoice Nigeria to handle live stream production for two Nigerian start-ups participating in the MultiChoice Africa Accelerator programme.

The Accelerator programme is another example of how MultiChoice is investing in multiplying the social impact in Nigeria. The programme invites applications from social-enterprise start-ups across Africa, and culminates in a finals event in Dubai, where shortlisted start-ups present their business plans to a panel of investors.

Two finalists were chosen from Nigeria. Dojah Inc is an end-to-end personal identity verification and compliance framework that supports digital businesses. Crop2Cash is a digital financial service that allows smallholder farmers to open a bank account on their feature phones in under two minutes, with no internet required.

“As MultiChoice Nigeria celebrates Africa Magic’s 20th anniversary, we recommit ourselves to not only growing our people but also growing our industry and its talent,” says Ugbe. “We will continue raising our standards and developing our people. As an African content provider, we see our role as being to add value to our community through the power of entertainment.”

Ugbe said the investments MultiChoice Nigeria had made in the country since its establishment in 1993, had been shown to have a ripple effect on the industry, and the economy at large.

“We have made an economic impact, but we are equally proud of the social impact that MultiChoice has had,” he says. “Through decades of engagement, we have grown a deep understanding of our audience, and we are committed to continuing to enable quality African storytelling that reflects their interests, their hopes and their aspirations.”

“We’re all about improving the quality of people’s lives through what we do,” says Ugbe. “We have been humbled to see our audiences respond to that, and we look forward to many more decades as part of the African entertainment landscape.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

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Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to Open Namibia International Energy Conference 2025

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Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

The Namibia International Energy Conference 2025, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, will be officially opened by President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking a historic milestone in Namibia’s journey to becoming a global energy hub

WINDHOEK, Namibia, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –The Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) is proud to announce that the President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will officially open the 2025 edition of the conference.

“We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference. Her participation marks a historic milestone for NIEC and reaffirms the government’s commitment to harnessing Namibia’s energy potential for shared prosperity. It also reflects the kind of forward-looking leadership that is essential to positioning Namibia as an emerging leader in the global energy landscape.” said Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, Founder & CEO of RichAfrica Consultancy and Convenor of NIEC.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah is a committed advocate for ensuring that Namibia derives maximum value from its natural resources through value addition and sustainable development, with a focus on uplifting the Namibian people and strengthening local capacity.

We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference

As Namibia lays the foundations to become an energy hub, NIEC 2025 will explore the key building blocks needed to realize this vision. These include enabling investment, strengthening institutions, advancing infrastructure and environmental stewardship, promoting local content and reinforcing good governance. Energy is increasingly recognized as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development – unlocking industrialization, economic diversification, job creation and long-term prosperity.

Now in its 7th edition, NIEC 2025 will be held under the theme, “Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value,” and is scheduled to take place from 23-25 April 2025 at the Windhoek Country Club Resort, Windhoek, Namibia.

Since its inception in 2012 under the theme, “A Road to Discovery and Beyond,” the conference has evolved into a premier platform for high-level dialogue, thought leadership and strategic engagement. It has played a crucial role in shaping discourse around Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry and its broader energy sector.

The event draws a global audience, including OPEC representatives, senior executives from international oil companies, prominent service providers, investors and industry experts. It has also welcomed numerous government leaders from across Africa, including ministers of energy, as well as Namibia’s own public and private sector leaders.

NIEC 2025 will feature a strategic program of panels, dialogues and expert-led sessions designed to unpack the conference theme and spotlight key issues and opportunities that will define the future of the energy industry. The 2025 edition is expected to welcome over 1,000 delegates from across the globe, reinforcing its position as the country’s premier energy platform.

The conference is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia and is curated and convened by RichAfrica Consultancy, with the African Energy Chamber as a strategic partner.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber

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Ministry of Health and KAOUN International launch GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA in Morocco

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GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA

GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will drive unprecedented impact across Africa, leveraging breakthroughs in technology and AI to enhance quality and access to healthcare

MARRAKECH, Morocco, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –During the third annual edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent’s largest tech and startup show, His Excellency Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection announced the launch of GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco – in partnership with KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

The much anticipated and pivotal event for the healthcare economy was officially launched with the signing of the partnership agreement, and will be held under the authority of Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection, hosted in partnership with Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health (FM6SS), and organised by KOAUN International, the organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

To be hosted in Casablanca from 21-23 April 2026, GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco, featuring GITEX DIGI_HEALTH, is set to lead the transformation impetus of Morocco and Africa to combat challenges in healthcare information, delivery, access and efficiency, capitalising on the emergence of AI and digital technologies.

The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently

H.E. Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Minister of Health and Social Protection, stated: “GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco embodies the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to health as a fundamental and universal human right, enshrined in our national vision for health system reform. As digital innovation, data intelligence, and health tech increasingly shape the future of care delivery across Africa, this platform reinforces Morocco’s position as a regional hub for collaboration, talent, and investment. Through international partnerships, strategic innovation, and shared expertise, we have a unique opportunity to co-build inclusive, resilient, and people-centered healthcare systems for the continent and beyond.”

For its part, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health emphasized its strategic vision: “As a major player in the fields of health, training, and scientific research, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health is committed, alongside the Ministry of Health and Social Protection and KAOUN International, to making Morocco a continental hub for healthtech. By contributing its medical and academic expertise through the development of digital health and medical technologies in Morocco and Africa, we aim to help shape the healthcare ecosystem of tomorrow.”

Morocco has emerged as a pioneer in digital health initiatives and advancing expeditiously towards an integrated health information system, fostering the adoption of innovative medical technologies to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure and system. The African healthcare market is estimated to be worth US$259 billion and expected to become the second biggest market after the US by 2030.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX globally, commented: “There is urgency from governments and healthcare institutions worldwide – and especially in Africa – to modernise and digitise their healthcare services to increase reach, reduce healthcare costs and deliver better patient outcomes. GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will highlight the role and growing influence of AI and new digital solutions to improve data-driven decision making and reduce health inequities. The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently.”

The three-day event will open with an agenda shaping leadership summit tackling powerful themes – accelerating cutting-edge solutions set to transform access, outcomes and health equity. Targeting decision-making executives from hospitals and healthcare institutions, health ministers and government leaders, CIOs, CTOs, innovators and disruptors, and public health policymakers – topics during the summit will explore health infrastructure, expanded access to healthcare, investment and research, data security and national records integration, health and data analytics, and AI-powered diagnostics.

An exhibition will bring together top researchers, practitioners, innovators, and experts from the global healthcare industry – representing Africa’s most important gathering of medical & lab equipment, imaging & diagnostics, IT systems & solutions, healthcare infrastructure, healthcare transformation, smart hospitals, healthcare management, and digital health management systems in Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa

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Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG) Appoints APO Group Founder, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, to Advisory Board

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Critical Minerals

CMAG gives Africa and the companies operating within the African critical minerals ecosystem a voice in discussions about supply chains and shaping policy

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and leading press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been appointed to the newly formed Advisory Board of the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

With its mission being to position Africa as a leader in critical minerals, CMAG (www.CMAGAfrica.com) is dedicated to advancing responsible sourcing and sustainable development of Africa’s critical mineral resources, while ensuring that local economies benefit from the continent’s mineral wealth. With approximately 40% of the world’s essential minerals reserves estimated to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa alone, the region plays a key role in the global energy transition and advanced technologies.

Pompigne-Mognard’s appointment to the Advisory Board follows the announcement of a strategic partnership between APO Group and CMAG aimed at raising the global prominence of Africa’s critical minerals sector. The partnership leverages APO Group’s public relations and strategic communications expertise and CMAG’s industry leadership. Complementing this, Pompigne-Mognard’s ability to connect clients with key stakeholders from governments, private companies, and organisations of all sizes will be invaluable in showcasing Africa’s role in the global essential resources supply chain and elevating the profile of Africa’s critical minerals sector.

In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CMAG Advisory Board. His vast network across industries, governments, and institutions, his deep understanding of Africa’s media and technology landscapes, and his extensive business experience will equip him to work alongside fellow Advisory Board members to shape positive perceptions of Africa’s critical minerals sector amongst global stakeholders and audiences.

A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business and the Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom, a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa.

Nicolas’ wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. It serves more than 300 clients, including global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, Network International, the African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

“Being appointed to the Critical Minerals Africa Group Advisory Board is an immense honour. CMAG is vital in safeguarding Africa’s critical minerals for future generations. In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group.

Other members of the Advisory Board include Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global, and Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group

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