Canon Europe (www.Canon-Europe.com) announces the launch of its highly anticipated flag bearers for the EOS R System – the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II, designed to take professional photography and videography to new levels. With unparalleled high performance, both products offer the most streamlined workflow processes and intuitive user experience ever, with assistive technologies powered by a new Accelerated Capture imaging platform and Deep Learning.

The EOS R1 boasts advanced features that enable news and sports professionals to capture the headline shot every time, whilst the EOS R5 Mark II is built for a wide range of hybrid professionals to tackle any creative project.

EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II – the most anticipated editions of the EOS R mirrorless range

The release of the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II full frame mirrorless cameras marks a monumental moment in Canon’s history – the EOS R1 being the first camera in the EOS R range within the EOS-1 series – known for its legacy of high performance and reliability. The EOS R5 Mark II succeeds the highly acclaimed EOS R5 which combined high resolution, speed and 8K movie performance.

For the first time, both cameras are introduced with the new ‘Accelerated Capture’ imaging platform comprised of a new processor – the DIGIC Accelerator – along with the well-known high-performance DIGIC X image processor and newly developed high-speed image sensors featured on both new camera models.

The DIGIC Accelerator is newly added to support the processing of large volumes of data, alongside Deep Learning technologies. This combination unlocks higher performance and new features in several areas including auto focus, continuous shooting and image quality.

Thanks to this new imaging platform, the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II both feature the latest version of Dual Pixel CMOS – Dual Pixel Intelligent AF. This includes multiple enhancements including the ability to more accurately track subjects, by identifying the face and upper bodies of players and avoiding obstacles or other players. This is further enhanced by the ability for users to register specific faces and track and prioritise them consistently over other players.

The newly added ‘Action Priority’ mode automatically identifies common action poses in basketball, soccer and volleyball, identifying and tracking the main subject in fast and dynamic situations and capturing the headline-grabbing moment of action.

Eye-control AF is offered for the first time in the EOS R5 Mark II and is improved to twice the level of the EOS R3 in both models including a higher pixel count sensor, enhanced LEDs, a larger eye detection area, and an updated detection algorithm allowing a unique and instinctive way to select a subject to track in a complex scene.

The EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II offer new high-speed image sensors, resulting in faster shooting speeds and faster sensor readout with a 40% reduction of rolling shutter in the EOS R1 compared to the EOS R3 – putting it on the same level as the mechanical shutter in the EOS-1D X Mark III. With a similar 60% reduction in the EOS R5 Mark II both models are highly capable in capturing action without any reduction in image quality or dynamic range. The cameras newly feature a pre-continuous shooting function offering up to 20 frames (for EOS R1) and 15 frames (for EOS R5 Mark II) to be captured in HEIF/JPEG or RAW format at any frame rate before the shutter is pressed, allowing the key moment to be captured even if it was missed. Both feature large, high brightness and resolution blackout-free viewfinders with the EOS R1 featuring the highest resolution at 9.44M dots and the EOS R5 Mark II offering twice the brightness of the EOS R5.

Thanks to the new imaging platform, the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II benefit from enhanced image quality with Deep Learning in-camera image upscaling and noise reduction, providing an additional four times resolution or reduced noise in-camera when using JPEG or HEIF formats. Users can also crop and upscale in-camera making it that much easier to send out photos without editing via separate applications.

Both cameras feature up to 8.5 stops of image stabilisation[1] with effective shooting capabilities particularly in low light or in other difficult conditions.

For videographers, the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II offer video in 12 bit RAW recording internally to the memory card as well as using Cinema EOS Movie Recording formats alongside Canon Log 2 and 3 with proxy video recording that is now fully supported between two cards, and four channel audio. This takes professional video production to new heights, delivering outstanding quality and creative flexibility no matter the scenario. The cameras are also able to record high resolution stills and Full HD video simultaneously, with the option to record externally via the HDMI type A ports in both cameras.

To support the workflow of professionals, several features ensure fast and stable connectivity and failsafe options, with multiple routes to image/video destinations for filing news with support for the C2PA content authenticity format[2] or reviewing the first rushes of a film. Industry standard file naming, separate photo/video folders, and advanced tagging in News ML-G2 standard are also supported. Both cameras support Wi-Fi6E/11ax 6GHz in-body, making them the first EOS series cameras to offer new levels of transfer speed, with the EOS R1 additionally supporting 2.5Gbps Ethernet connectivity and dual-threaded FTP in the body and the EOS R5 Mark II providing 2.5Gbps Ethernet via an optional grip.

Introducing the EOS R1 – Canon’s new flagship camera

With 35 years since the introduction of the original EOS-1, the EOS R1 takes on a legacy of cameras that represent the ideal option for professionals worldwide, thanks to its groundbreaking autofocus, speed, reliability and durability.

Engineered for elite sports photographers the EOS R1 is designed to ensure the moment is never missed in the fast-paced world of sports and news photography. Auto focus alongside speed is the key to obtaining previously unobtainable results. The EOS R1 is uniquely equipped with a groundbreaking, new Cross Type AF system, meaning it excels in challenging conditions such as when shooting through a tennis net, picking out smaller subjects and locking on to vertical detail in situations where horizonal detail is missing from the subject under the AF area. This latest technology is a first for Canon and requires a completely new Dual Pixel CMOS AF sensor arrangement in which individual Gb pupil divisions of pixels are rotated by 90 degrees to offer auto focus tracking sensitivity along the vertical and horizontal axis of the sensor, offering users fast and accurate results and the ability to capture an image that could have previously been missed.

The camera offers an astounding 40fps silent electronic shutter with AF tracking and 20 frames of pre-continuous shooting, meaning that users can follow a scene without sacrificing image quality. Its 24.2 megapixel resolution delivers exceptional high-speed performance, while also achieving up to 96 megapixels in-camera with Deep Learning and image upscaling and noise reduction. Enhanced flash sync speeds up to 1/400th of a second and improved white balance and image exposure evaluation means more consistency and versatility for a variety of genres.

The EOS R1 also champions hybrid multimedia functionality with 6K resolution at 60fps or 4K at 120fps, along with Full HD at 240fps.

Designed to withstand the toughest conditions, the EOS R1 features a newly designed weather-resistant body with renewed outer texture and integrated vertical grip. A high-resolution EVF with an anti-fog design and a wide viewfinder eyepiece make it a comfortable camera for shooting sports over long durations. Newly added is the two-stage AF-ON button which allows the instant activation of two programmable functions within one button allowing photographers to quickly respond to changing action in front of them.

Presenting the EOS R5 Mark II, the pinnacle of all-round versatility and hybrid creativity

Building on the legacy of the EOS R5 and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for emerging genres, the EOS R5 Mark II is aimed at creative storytellers and hybrid users ready to elevate their craft, making it the ultimate tool for a wide range of applications, from wildlife to wedding, event coverage, filmmaking and news reporting.

Designed to capture fast-moving subjects without compromising on high-quality detail, the EOS R5 Mark II features a revolutionary new back-illuminated, stacked sensor design with a stunning 45 megapixel resolution. Auto focus tracking and an electronic shutter capable of 30fps with low rolling shutter allows users to truly excel in fast-paced action situations. The pre-continuous shooting mode captures 15 frames before the shutter is even pressed, while advanced image upscaling can achieve up to 180 megapixels with exceptional noise reduction, preserving the finest details.

Seamless hybrid multi-media functionality is at the heart of the EOS R5 Mark II as well as a greater synergy with Canon Cinema EOS line with shared features and formats. Improved from the EOS R5, the EOS R5 Mark II offers 8K 60p resolution from the full width of the sensor and 12-bit RAW recording internally, along with 4K video at up to 120p with sound. The newly introduced Cooling Fan Grip is designed specifically to extend shooting periods for event coverage, interviews and high-quality live streaming.

The possibility to record video proxies, industry-standard file naming, and structured folders enhances post-production workflows. Shooting Virtual Reality is also made simpler with enhanced preview and playback navigation.

A new higher performance LP-E6P battery and heat-dissipating and durable magnesium alloy body ensures the EOS R5 Mark II is ready for any challenge, even in unpredictable weather environments.

The EOS R5 Mark II maintains a compact and lightweight design, but with key enhancements such as a fog-resistant, two times brighter viewfinder and larger opening making it an indispensable tool for hybrid creatives seeking top-grade performance and versatility all in one package.

Ushering in a new generation of EOS R System products

The EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II together represent a complete professional pairing with the ultimate in reliability and speed matched with versatility and practicality. These new bodies join a roster of recently announced EOS R System cameras and RF lenses, cementing Canon’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology for creative storytellers across all genres of photography and videography.

For more information about the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II, please visit:

EOS R5 Mark II- https://apo-opa.co/46aBQJU

EOS R1- https://apo-opa.co/4bSqAmC

Key specifications

EOS R1

EOS R5 Mark II

24.2 MP full frame back-illuminated stacked sensor

Pre-continuous shooting up to 20 frames

40fps continuous shooting rate

Customizable continuous shooting speed

Blackout-free EVF 9.44M dots

45 MP full frame back-illuminated stacked sensor

Pre-continuous shooting up to 15 frames

30fps continuous shooting rate

Customizable continuous shooting speed

Blackout-free EVF 5.76M dots

New processor DIGIC Accelerator&Accelerated Capture

In-camera upscaling and Neural Network Noise Reduction

New processor DIGIC Accelerator&Accelerated Capture

In-camera upscaling and Neural Network Noise Reduction

Integrated vertical grip

Compact&lightweight

Optional grips available

Dual Pixel Intelligent AF

Registered people priority

Action Priority

Enhanced eye-control AF performance

Focus down to -7.5EV

Cross AF

2-Stage AF-ON button

Dual Pixel Intelligent AF

Registered people priority

Action Priority

Enhanced eye-control AF performance

Focus down to -6.5EV

Up to 8.5 stops of Image Stabilisation

Up to 8.5 stops of Image Stabilisation

6K 60p RAW with 4K video at up to 120p and 60p oversampled from 6K

8K 60p RAW with 4K video at up to 120p and 60p oversampled from 8K

Extra compatibility with EOS VR System

Custom Picture support

XF-HEVC S/XF-AVC S

Canon Log 2/Log 3

LPCM/24bit/4CH audio

Dual shooting (still&movie)

Proxy movie support

Custom Picture support

XF-HEVC S/XF-AVC S

Canon Log 2/Log 3

LPCM/24bit/4CH audio

Dual shooting (still&movie)

Proxy movie support

Waveform monitor

Wi-Fi 6E

2.5Gbps Ethernet in-camera

Dual threaded FTP transfer

Wi-Fi 6E

Dual threaded FTP transfer

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

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/3Yaxmkr) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: Canon-CNA.com

In a bid to solidify its position as a key player in the global energy market, Angola has set its sights on ramping up oil and gas production to counter expected natural decline. The country plans to increase oil output to 1.1 million barrels per day (bpd), maintaining this output until 2027. Meanwhile, Angola is also working to increase natural gas’ share in its energy mix to 25% by 2025, a move that will strengthen feedstock for the Angola LNG facility. With substantial investments in upstream projects, Azule Energy is poised to play a crucial role in helping the country achieve its ambitious energy goals.

Upstream Investments to Bolster Angolan Energy Security 

Azule Energy represents one of the largest independent equity producers of oil and gas in Angola, with two billion barrels equivalent of net resources, stakes in 20 licenses – of which 11 are operated – and participation in the Angola LNG joint venture – the entity that operates the country’s inaugural LNG plant. The company has set a target of increasing oil production to 250,000 bpd within the 2023-2026 period, accelerating gas monetization through the New Gas Consortium (NGC) – operated by Azule Energy – while developing 500 MW of renewable energy by 2025. This diversified project portfolio aligns closely with the government’s efforts to bolster energy security in the country.

Major upcoming projects also include the Agogo Integrated West Hub development, which features the development of a new production hub at Block 15/06. The project will produce hydrocarbons from the already-producing Agogo field and the newly developed Ndungu field, utilizing the existing Ngoma FPSO and the under-construction Agogo FPSO. Utilizing existing infrastructure in Block 15/06, the Agogo FPSO will have a capacity of 120,000 bpd and a gas injection capacity of 230 million cubic feet per day. Achieving FID in 2023, the Agogo Integrated West Hub project will come online in 2026.

Notwithstanding new developments, Azule Energy is committed to going even further with its support for production growth in Angola by maximizing output in existing fields. In line with Angola’s recently established Incremental Production Program – which seeks to incentivize investment in already-producing assets – the company is assessing expansion opportunities at mature fields. Currently, Azule Energy’s portfolio of operated blocks include Cabinda Norte and Cabinda Centro (onshore), as well as Blocks 31, 15/06, 1/14, 18 and 28 (offshore). The company also has four FPSO vessels in operation, with a capacity of 1.75 million bpd each. Investments in incremental production at producing blocks would not only maximize field development but drive energy security across the nation.

In addition to oil, the company is also spearheading the development of the country’s first non-associated gas project through the NGC. The first phase of the project monetizes gas resources from the Quiluma and Maboqueiro fields – located in the shallow waters of the Northern Gas Complex – to produce four billion cubic meters of gas per year via two offshore platforms and an onshore gas processing plant. The project is strategically designed to supply gas for the Angola LNG plant and is on track for first production in 2026. The NGC has the potential to utilize gas from Blocks 2, 3 and 15/14 for the Angola LNG plant, thereby supporting diversification and boosting gas monetization in Angola.  

“Azule is fully committed to Angola. Angola is and remains at the core of our corporate strategy even as we explore other interesting opportunities outside. Our leadership is fully committed to investing and developing local content in Angola because we believe that is the right thing to do,” said Adalberto Fernandes, Government Affairs Director at Azule Energy.

Pioneering Sustainable Oil and Gas Solutions

Azule Energy has placed sustainability at the heart of its operations in Angola. The company’s Agogo FPSO, for example, is a pioneering infrastructure that incorporates carbon capture and storage (CCS) capabilities. The vessel is designed in a way that redefines sustainability in the industry and is largely-considered the first-of-its-kind. Specifically, the FPSO features the world’s first post-combustion CO2 capture plants installed on an offshore facility, thereby significantly reducing the amount of CO2 emitted. The FPSO also integrates a number of electrification and automation technologies in line with the company’s vision to achieve net-zero in terms of Scope 1 emissions by 2030.

Meanwhile, the company is currently producing its first-ever sustainability report, which provides a comprehensive overview of Azule Energy’s performance regarding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices. The report will outline a plan to achieve net-zero and introduce stakeholders to measures and technologies being applied to drive sustainable oil and gas operations.

Additionally, Azule Energy is committed to strengthening local content in Angola. Through the company’s operations, Azule Energy supports job creation opportunities and has incorporated a skills development component to all projects. Block 15/06 alone is expected to become a hub for local industries, generating $5.6 billion and creating 1,400 jobs by 2044. Meanwhile, the company’s onshore gas processing plant in Soyo – representing part of the NGC – features specific local content components. The NGC estimates that $1 billion of the project’s costs will be allocated to the procurement of local goods, services and materials. In tandem with renewable energy investments, these endeavors aim to set a new standard for sustainable oil and gas operations in Angola.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

UNSMIL congratulates the High National Elections Commission (HNEC) on completing the first phase of voter registration for 60 municipalities across Libya. Despite challenging circumstances, 210,545 Libyan citizens have registered to vote in the upcoming municipal elections. 

The mission commends people who registered to vote and demonstrated their commitment to choosing their local leaders. HNEC plans to publish a preliminary voter registration list for three days beginning 21 July. We encourage all registrants to verify the accuracy of their names and information. 

UNSMIL also urges Libyan authorities to provide the necessary resources to facilitate the next steps in the municipal electoral process. To ensure a more inclusive democratic process, the mission encourages HNEC and other Libyan institutions to persist in their efforts to encourage women’s participation – which currently stands at 29% of the total number of registered voters for the municipal councils’ elections. 

UNSMIL remains committed to supporting municipal as well as national elections, enabling people to freely and safely elect their leaders and renew the legitimacy of their institutions. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL).

Africa GreenCo Group, along with its subsidiaries (together GreenCo) and in collaboration with the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com) (a leading pan-African trade and investment platform) and Africa Infrastructure Development Association (AfIDA), is launching an initiative to support local developers and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in the SADC region. This program aims to tackle regional power shortages by offering essential guidance through the stages of project development, contributing to a more sustainable and reliable energy sector. GreenCo and collaborators will conduct a series of meetings and webinars focused on project development, financing mechanisms, regulatory requirements, risk mitigation strategies, and more.

GreenCo is committed to empowering and driving sustainable growth in the energy sector in the region. From August to December, GreenCo and collaborators will host monthly events, inviting members of the investment community to participate. These events will allow projects to be presented to international lenders and investors through AfIDA’s incubator program at the end of the programme. This exposure will provide local developers and IPPs with access to potential funding opportunities, ensuring the success and viability of their projects and delivery on the ground.  GreenCo partnered with Invest Africa on their Investment Mission to Zambia in 2023 and Zimbabwe previously, to promote Zambia and Zimbabwe’s untapped potential to the international investor community.

This initiative will be launched at the Energy Forum for Africa Conference in Zambia (http://apo-opa.co/3xWLByJ), on 16th August 2024 in Lusaka, Zambia.  The webinars will form part of the actionable outcomes of the forum, focusing on finding long-term solutions to the current energy crisis in Zambia and Zimbabwe and alleviating power shortages in the region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

For media inquiries and further information,
please contact: bd@africagreenco.com

About GreenCo:
GreenCo acts as a SADC wide renewable energy buyer and trader purchasing power from renewable energy generators and selling that electricity to utilities and private sector offtakers (i.e. commercial and industrial users), national power trading markets and markets of the SAPP.  GreenCo will mitigate the risk of purchaser default through an ability to secure alternative buyers or through short-term trading on the SAPP electricity markets.  Through its activities, GreenCo will also increase the supply of, and demand for, finance for energy projects, and mobilise private sector capital more quickly towards critical and transformative capacity addition. For more information please see: www.AfricaGreenCo.com

About African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF):
African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) works to build strategic partnerships, extend grants, offer technical support and provide access to relevant knowledge related to capacity building in Africa. Their current 5-year Strategic Plan aims to promote the emergence of Skilled People and Strong Institutions to Transform Africa.

About AfIDA:
The Africa Infrastructure Development Association (AfIDA) is an association of project developers that seeks to promote and enable project development activities in Africa, by creating an eco-system and platform that will foster continuous dialogue amongst its members, standardize project development template documents and serve as a policy advocacy platform for the industry, with a view to ensuring that more projects on the continent achieve bankability. For more information please see: www.AFiDA-Africa.org

About EFFA Conference:
The Energy Forum for Africa (EFFA) is a prestigious event with the aim of fostering dialogue, promoting sustainable development, and exchanging ideas on investment opportunities in the energy sector, with a particular focus on Zambia. For more information please see: https://www.EnergyForumForAfrica.com

About Invest Africa:
Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business platform that promotes trade and investment across the continent. With over sixty years of experience, our network is made up of more than 400 multinational corporations, private investors, fund managers, family offices, policy makers and entrepreneurs. Together they share our desire to build opportunity across the African continent. As the trusted entry point into Africa, we support and connect business and investment through a unique range of services, from leading business conferences and bespoke trade and investment missions to sector-specific event programmes and consultancy projects. For more information: www.InvestAfrica.com