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VistaJet Continues Expansion Plans in East and South Africa

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VistaJet

The African Roadshow Reaffirms Commitment Towards the Region’s Economic Development 

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, November 4, 2024/APO Group/ — 

VistaJet (www.VistaJet.com), the world’s first and only global business aviation company, is set to organize its first-ever East and South Africa Static Display Roadshow, showcasing its flagship aircraft, the Bombardier Global 7500. The event will commence in Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, followed by a landing in South Africa’s top business centers, Johannesburg and Cape Town.  Nairobi’s positioning as East Africa’s tech and business hub, along with Johannesburg and Cape Town’s role in South Africa’s mature aviation market, have made these cities essential focal points for VistaJet’s growth strategy. The roadshow will engage with prospective and existing clients and the local media, serving as a platform to share VistaJet’s ongoing expansion and dedication to support the region’s economic transformation as set out in the AcFTA agreement. This roadshow follows the monumental success of its West African edition (https://apo-opa.co/3CnKLg3), held earlier in May. 

According to the Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), the number of business jets operating in Africa is expected to grow by 8% annually over the next five years. Currently, there are 418 jets on the continent, with South Africa having the largest business aircraft fleet, followed by Kenya and Nigeria. The ongoing growth of private aviation in Africa has also benefited the continent’s employment rates, with air transport contributing significantly to 7.7 million jobs and $63 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP).   

Elsewhere, The 2024 Africa Wealth Report by Henley & Partners (https://apo-opa.co/40yhzxc) reveals that the total investable wealth on the African continent stands at US2.5tn and that the millionaire population is expected to increase by 65% over the next ten years, fueled by strong growth in key sectors such as fintech, business process outsourcing, software development, rare metals mining, green tech, media and entertainment, and wealth management. The ‘Big 5’ wealth markets (https://apo-opa.co/40wbGR6) — South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Kenya, and Morocco — collectively account for 56% of Africa’s high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and over 90% of its billionaires.  

VistaJet offers the world’s most extensive range of business jets and in the past 14 years it has built a strong African network, transforming business aviation in the region. During the East and South Africa Roadshow, VistaJet will showcase the Bombardier Global 7500, the largest and longest-range business jet and offers unbeatable global connectivity, flying up to 17 hours non-stop. Vista has 18 in the fleet – the world’s largest fleet of Global 7500. Precision-engineered wings provide an exceptionally smooth ride in the large cabin, with four separate living spaces, including a permanent stateroom, this jet is perfectly suited for business or a family dynamic. In the first half of 2024, across Africa, Vista’s Global 7500 flight hours increased +33% – this aircraft is becoming increasingly more popular across the continent.  The Global 7500 is popular for connecting African cities, such as Cape Town to Accra and Johannesburg to Cairo and international routes such as Africa and Asia, demonstrating a strong sentiment to increasing investment between the African and Asian continents (https://apo-opa.co/4fcKzPk).   

An impressive Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for 20 years has made Vista the largest provider of on demand business flights in the world. And the trajectory is not changing — over the last 18 months, while the private aviation industry as a whole experienced a leveling out in demand following the post-COVID boom, Vista expanded its global footprint and as of July 2024, has gained an additional 50 basis points of total market share year-over-year, with its share of the market rising to approximately 5% of the total market.  With an addressable market of over 24,000 business jets around the globe, as well as broader spectrum of aspirational fliers, there is also significantly more scope and opportunity for the Group to capture further market share over the next two decades.  

VistaJet’s main expansion plan objective is to enhance Africa’s economic growth by increasing regional investments and facilitating overall growth

In 1H 2024, Vista was once again experiencing exceptional growth – with total flight hours up +14% year-over-year – an incredible result, especially when compared to a global market that contracted by 2% over the same period.  

The VistaJet Program membership has been the biggest contributor to this growth, recording +19% growth in Program hours and a +18% increase in number of Members. The first half of 2024 continued this trajectory, marked by: 

  • Double-Digit Growth in Flight Hours: Vista recorded a significant increase in flight hours compared to 1H 2023, a direct result of Vista’s strategic foresight and market understanding. 
  • Membership Surge: 2024 has seen a substantial Membership growth as clients gravitated towards Vista’s flexible subscription-based model, reinforcing Vista’s client-first approach. 
  • Africa Success: The African continent remains a priority market for Vista with impressive growth in the first half of 2024. Africa reported strong flight activity with a +103% increase in the New Program Hours Sold and a +29% increase in total hours flown year-over-year: East Africa specifically experiencing a +46% increase in total hours flown; and South Africa, a +79% increase in total hours flown. 

With over a decade of operations in East and South Africa, VistaJet continues to play a vital role in supporting development in these sub-regions by facilitating global investments and connecting decision-makers, corporations, and business executives. Vista’s global fleet of iconic silver and red jets means its African clients will never be stranded with guaranteed availability in as little as 24 hours’ notice, no matter where they are going in the world. Global coverage, covering 96% of the globe also means knowing how to operate in over 2,700 airports, making journeys to every destination safe and reliable. VistaJet’s flexibility is unparalleled for its expanding African client base.  

Commenting on the business expansion plans, VistaJet’s President of Europe and Africa, Philippe Scalabrini, stated: “Building on the momentum of the West Africa Roadshow, we are pleased to announce the East and South Africa Roadshow.  VistaJet is committed to offering top rate, exclusive services to its extensive client network in this critical region. In response to the growing demand, we have deployed three dedicated aircraft while upholding our exceptional standards. VistaJet’s main expansion plan objective is to enhance Africa’s economic growth by increasing regional investments and facilitating overall growth.” 

VistaJet was founded 20 years ago and has established itself as the world’s leading global business aviation company. With a client base consisting mainly of corporate leaders and Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals, VistaJet aims to simplify air travel by offering privacy, reliability, flexibility, efficiency, anonymity, and safety. The Cabin Hosts, trained by the British Butler Institute and MedAire, deliver the highest service standards.  Flying with VistaJet is a better alternative to ownership – offering a lower cost per hour, and a larger coverage area; as well as preferrable to brokerage – due to higher safety, and unique consistency of service; and often commercial – thanks to scheduling flexibility, and non-stop connections across airports around the world.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VistaJet.

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RIOT Network and MediaTek collaboration expands digital access in South Africa through innovative, community-driven Wi-Fi solutions

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RIOT Network aims to make fast, unlimited Wi-Fi services accessible for people in townships and underserved communities

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 22, 2024/APO Group/ — 

MediaTek (www.MediaTek.com), a global fabless semiconductor company powering nearly 2 billion connected devices a year, and RIOT Network (https://RIOT.Network), a community mobile broadband provider in South Africa, have announced the successful integration of Mediatek’s Filogic 830 (https://apo-opa.co/3CIbkNl) chipset into RIOT’s second-generation CROWDNet Core Nodes.

The successful deployment of the CROWDNet nodes has enabled RIOT Network to achieve its aim of offering uncapped internet at an affordable price of R99 per month, and to do so profitably. To date, RIOT Network, in partnership with Sonke Telecommunications, has leveraged the nodes to connect more than 800 households and 5000 users in Olievenhoutbosch to uncapped Wi-Fi services.

RIOT Network aims to make fast, unlimited Wi-Fi services accessible for people in townships and underserved communities. Its CROWDNet Nodes, enable an innovative model for deploying user-operated network infrastructure. Community members serve as operators of some of the core network devices to earn a share of the fee from neighbours who use the service.

With each new connection, RIOT Network is highlighting the role of innovative fixed-wireless solutions in extending broadband access and improving digital inclusivity

CROWDNet powered by MediaTek Filogic 830 brings affordable, last-kilometre broadband to communities where it is not commercially viable to deploy towers or fibre. The MediaTek Filogic 830 is a high-performance SoC for routers, repeaters, access points and mesh networking devices. The SoC enables device makers to build-in powerful applications based on an energy-efficient, Wi-Fi 6-ready platform.

“The Mediatek’s Filogic 830 chipset delivers a unique balance of high performance and cost-efficiency, allowing us to keep operational costs low while maximising network reliability and speed,” said Jarryd Bekker, CEO at RIOT Network. “This combination of affordability and sustainable business growth is pivotal to our vision of expanding digital access in underserved communities. Our work in Olievenhoutbosch near Centurion demonstrates the power of reliable, affordable internet, creating new opportunities for economic and social engagement.”

“With each new connection, RIOT Network is highlighting the role of innovative fixed-wireless solutions in extending broadband access and improving digital inclusivity,” said Rami Osman (https://apo-opa.co/4ghZBUn), Director for Business Development, MediaTek Middle East and Africa. “We look forward to supporting RIOT in building a future where high-quality internet is accessible and impactful for all.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MediaTek Inc

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) Endorses Inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, Catalyzing Growth in the Republic of Congo’s Energy Sector

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The African Energy Chamber proudly supports the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, scheduled for March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, November 21, 2024/APO Group/ — 

The African Energy Chamber (AEC), as the voice of Africa’s energy sector, proudly supports the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), set to take place in Brazzaville on March 25-26, 2025. Unveiled during African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town by the Republic of Congo’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons, this milestone event signals the nation’s commitment to strengthening its role as a key energy player on the continent, while showcasing a range of investment opportunities. 

Under the leadership of Hydrocarbons Minister Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, the Republic of Congo has emerged as sub-Saharan Africa’s fourth-largest oil producer, with anticipated production of 280,000 barrels per day (BPD) by the end of 2024 and ambitions to reach 500,000 BPD within three to five years. Building on this momentum, the CEIF will highlight innovative projects and foster strategic partnerships that enhance investment, drive economic growth and position the Congo as a leader in Africa’s energy expansion.

Meanwhile, Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), led by CEO Maixent Raoul Ominga, is spearheading the Congo’s energy growth. SNPC holds a majority stake in the Mengo Kundji Bindi II permit, with 2.5 billion barrels of estimated oil potential. The company is developing the site through 13 wells, 3D seismic data acquisition, and the construction of six production platforms. 

We are honored to secure the Chamber’s endorsement for this pivotal forum

With the Chamber’s official support, the CEIF is set to attract government leaders, C-suite executives from major IOCs and energy experts, who will offer critical insights into Congo’s oil, gas and energy sector developments. The country is overhauling its gas sector to unlock 10 trillion cubic feet of resources through a comprehensive Gas Master Plan and new Gas Code that introduces favorable fiscal terms and enables small-scale project development, as well as large-scale, integrated gas megaprojects like Eni’s Congo LNG and Wing Wah’s Bango Kayo. 

“The Congo Energy & Investment Forum marks a major milestone for the country, amplifying its strategic energy initiatives and showing industry stakeholders that it is serious about advancing its energy sector. We look forward to supporting this forum, which promises to connect investors, drive impactful partnerships and elevate the Congo’s position within Africa’s energy sector,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.  

“We are honored to secure the Chamber’s endorsement for this pivotal forum, which, through its vast network and influence, will help attract key stakeholders and decision-makers to the event. Together, we aim to highlight the immense potential of the Congo’s energy sector, foster strategic partnerships and drive transformative investments that contribute to sustainable growth across the industry,” notes James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power, organizers of the CEIF.   

This premier forum provides a unique platform for connecting local and international investors with high-impact opportunities across a diversified range of energy projects, paving the way for collaborations that drive growth and transformation. The AEC’s endorsement underscores its commitment to fostering strategic partnerships, sustainable investment and regional cooperation, aligning with its broader mission to make energy poverty history across the continent by 2030.  

As the energy industry continues to serve as a critical pillar of the Congolese economy and a catalyst for sustainable development, the AEC remains dedicated to supporting initiatives like CEIF that foster progress, investment and partnerships across the African energy landscape. 

For more information, please visit www.CongoEnergyInvestment.com

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

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Any Successful African Energy Policy at Conference of the Parties (COP) or Anywhere Must Have Oil and Gas at its Core (By NJ Ayuk)

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Africa will need global financial systems, including multilateral development banks, to play a significant role in financing our energy growth which must include fossil fuels

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JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, November 21, 2024/APO Group/ — 

By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.org).

I believe the ultimate responsibility for getting there is ours and no one else’s. Yes, we need partners to walk alongside us, but the success of our energy movement rests on African shoulders.

To begin with, I would love to see African energy stakeholders speaking in a unified voice about African energy industry goals.

This will be particularly important in COP29 in Baku. It is imperative that African leaders present a unified voice and strategy for African energy transitions. We must make Africa’s unique needs and circumstances clear and explain the critical role that oil and gas will play in helping Africa achieve net-zero emissions in coming decades.

I would encourage African leaders to talk about the need for financing, as well, to make it possible for us to adopt renewable energy sources and set up the necessary infrastructure. Africa will need global financial systems, including multilateral development banks, to play a significant role in financing our energy growth which must include fossil fuels.

Africa’s governments have a role to play in a successful African energy movement as well.

Because Africa’s energy industry still can benefit greatly from the presence of international oil companies, our government leaders need to approve contracts with oil and gas companies promptly instead of allowing red tape to delay projects after discoveries are made.

And, they need to offer the kinds of fiscal policies that allow oil companies to operate profitably in Africa. In turn, that will help those companies generate revenue, create jobs and business opportunities, and foster capacity building.

I also would encourage governments and civil societies to reward companies that exemplify positive behavior. Let’s incentivize the kind of activities we want, from creating good jobs and training opportunities to sharing knowledge.

I would love to see African energy stakeholders speaking in a unified voice about African energy industry goals

And there’s more.

We in Africa must work together to create more opportunities for women to build careers in the oil and gas industry at all levels. Our energy industry can’t reach its potential to do good when half of our population is left out. Our progress on behalf of women has not been great—We need to do better, and we need to act quickly.

How the world can support

Now, I mean it when I say Africans are responsible for building the future they want. But, I would love to see Western governments, businesses, financial institutions, and organizations support our efforts.

How? They can avoid demonizing the oil and gas industry. We see it constantly, in the media, in policy and investment decisions, and in calls for Africa to leave our fossil fuels in the ground. Actions like these, even as Western leaders have pushed OPEC to produce oil, are not fair, and they’re not helpful.

I also would respectfully ask financial institutions to resume financing for African oil and gas projects and stop attempting to block projects like the East African Crude Oil pipeline or Mozambique’s LNG projects.

Please understand that with the war in Ukraine, the energy crisis in Europe, and the energy poverty facing our continent, our countries, like many others, are simply choosing the paths they believe are most likely to help their people.

You know, people for years have accused me of loving oil and gas companies more than Africa. The opposite is true. In my frequent travels around the continent, I’ve observed far too many young people with little in the way of opportunities.

I know our young people have aspirations for a better future. I know they have big dreams. And, I know that future is nearly within their grasp.

A thriving, strategically managed energy industry can make it possible for many of these young people, whether it leads to good jobs or it fosters the kind of economic growth that creates jobs in other fields. Even if we only get the lights on in their communities, we’ll be giving our young people hope and improving their chances of realizing their goals.

This is what drives me, the idea that with our ongoing efforts and determination, our young people can realize meaningful opportunities. I encourage each of you to work with us at the African Energy Chamber, in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Together, we can build the kind of African energy movement that our continent, our communities, and our young people need and deserve.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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