South Sudan’s Minister of Mining Martin Gama Abucha will speak at the upcoming Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) 2024 summit – scheduled for 6-7 November in Cape Town – leading a delegation of South Sudanese policymakers and critical mineral industry stakeholders.

South Sudan is currently forging partnerships with public and private sector entities, investors, exploration firms and technology companies to unlock its critical mineral potential. The country is estimated to hold over 40 million tons of copper, along with significant untapped reserves of zinc, manganese, nickel and cobalt, essential to energy transition technologies. To showcase this potential, the summit will feature a dedicated South Sudan Mining Forum aimed at connecting South Sudanese mining projects with global investors.  

The Critical Minerals Africa 2024 summit on November 6-7 serves to position Africa as the primary investment destination for critical minerals. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energy 2024 conference (www.AECWeek.com/) on November 4 – 8, offering delegates access to the full scope of energy, mining and finance leaders in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com

Last February, South Sudan’s Ministry of Mining signed an agreement with South Africa’s Department of Mineral Resources and Energy to collaborate on exploration, capacity building and skills transfer within the sector. The partnership will allow South Sudan to leverage South Africa’s mining expertise and financial resources, with several South African entities including the African Exploration Mining and Finance Corporation and Council for Geoscience actively seeking new prospects in the East African country.

South Sudan is also establishing a geological laboratory, as part of a comprehensive geo-mapping initiative aimed at delineating the country’s critical mineral geographies and reserve quantities. Collaboration with Russian geological exploration company ROSGEO has been leveraged to create a mineral resource management system, while partnerships with US firm REE-Magnesium and Canadian mining company CVMR facilitate satellite imaging technologies to map South Sudan’s energy transition metals. At CMA 2024, Minister Abucha is expected to showcase further partnership and investment opportunities across South Sudan’s critical mineral value chain.

Additionally, South Sudan is amending its regulatory framework and establishing relevant bodies to attract international investors and ensure the sustainable management of its critical mineral industry. Specifically, a dedicated mining chamber will be established to organize and manage partnerships with global investors and partners. CMA 2024 provides a critical platform for Minister Abucha to update potential investors on the country’s regulatory improvements.

“South Sudan holds immense untapped potential in its critical minerals sector. Efforts by the government to partner with global investors on new mining projects showcase its commitment to attracting foreign investment and leveraging its mineral resources, while generating lucrative returns for investors,” says Rachelle Kasongo, Event&Project Direct at Energy Capital&Power, organizers of CMA 2024.

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

In the world of contemporary architecture, two names have emerged as beacons of innovation and social responsibility: Boubker Benjelloun and Benjamin Piper. Together, they have launched Benjelloun Piper Architecture (www.BenjellounPiperArchitecture.com), a firm that is making waves in the industry. This venture aims to push the boundaries of what architecture can achieve, emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and social impact.

The firm boasts an impressive portfolio spanning several continents. Their work includes high-profile projects, all of which have left a significant mark on Dubai’s architectural landscape. The architects are consistently thinking outside the box, bringing a visionary flair to their projects that allows them to surpass even the most esteemed architects in international competitions. The architects’ designs are a blend of creativity and innovation, often integrating elements of nature into urban spaces. Their unique style and groundbreaking ideas set them apart, enabling them to create projects that are not only aesthetically stunning but also highly functional.

Benjelloun Piper Architecture has firmly established itself in the architectural scene with the creation of the iconic Como Tower and the record-breaking sale of the world’s most expensive beachfront penthouse at $150 million. Yet, this achievement is just the beginning of their groundbreaking journey. Prepare for an onslaught of extraordinary projects in the coming months, each promising unmatched innovation and luxury in the industry.

Despite their success in the commercial realm, both architects are driven by a desire to give back to the community. The architects’ commitment to social responsibility extends beyond their architectural achievements. They envision a future where their skills can be leveraged to address global challenges, fostering environments that are not only beautiful and functional but also equitable and sustainable. Their journey from creating luxury skyscrapers to becoming architects for humanity sets a powerful example of how professionals can use their talents to make a lasting positive impact on the world.

Joining forces with Benjelloun, Piper is now part of a philanthropic journey that spans two decades. Remarkably, the B. Foundation, created by Benjelloun, has initiated the reconstruction of one of the poorest villages in Ethiopia, aiming to provide better living conditions and opportunities for its residents.

With their continued dedication to innovative and socially responsible design, Benjelloun Piper Architecture are not just building structures; they are building a better future for all.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Benjelloun Piper Architecture.

Contact:
Btissam Moutaher
+971 (04) 386 9400
enquiries@benjellounpiper.com

For more about their work and vision, visit Home – Benjelloun Piper (BenjellounPiperArchitecture.com)

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has signed an agreement to avail a Project Preparation Facility in favour of the of Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas to develop and implement an Afro-Caribbean Marketplace. Once implemented, the Afro-Caribbean Marketplace will comprise 90 outlets dedicated to the sale of authentically African and Caribbean products from more than 54 African countries, 20 Caribbean states, 16 islands of the Bahamas and a transshipment hub to be located at the grounds of the former International Bazaar and Royal Oasis Tower and Casino in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island.  

When completed, the project is expected to transform Grand Bahama into a major trade and cultural hub, enhance The Bahamas’ strategic position in global maritime networks, foster economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen ties between African and Caribbean nations. The marketplace will boost SME growth, and foster cultural exchange, thereby contributing to the overall economic and social development of The Bahamas. The project preparation facility of US$ 1.86 million will fund essential pre-development activities that will advance the project to bankability, whereupon this is expected to unlock further investments estimated at US$ 50 million.

Extolling the impact of the facility, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank Group stated: “Afreximbank is very pleased to be providing funding towards the development of a unique Afro-Caribbean marketplace and trans-shipment project in the Bahamas. It is a strategic investment that allows us to realise our vision of positioning the Caribbean as the trans-shipment hub for Africa’s trade with the Americas. It will also support logistics related to AfriCaribbean trade. The Bank commends the Government of the Bahamas for the bold initiative to harness the emerging Afri-Caribbean opportunities”.

The Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Hon. Philip Edward Davis said: “This agreement is a testament to our commitment to fostering strong economic and cultural partnerships. The Afro-Caribbean Marketplace and Logistics Center will position Grand Bahama as a beacon of international trade, creating a dynamic environment for growth and collaboration”.

Minister for Grand Bahama the Honourable Ginger Moxey said: “The signing of the Project Preparation Facility with Afreximbank and the Government of The Bahamas marks a transformative step for Grand Bahama Island. The development of the Afro-Caribbean Marketplace and Logistics Centre signifies our commitment to creating a vibrant hub for trade, culture, and innovation.”

She added that: “This initiative will not only boost our local economy but also strengthen our ties with the African continent, fostering an environment of shared growth and prosperity. Grand Bahama is a resilient island and is poised to become a beacon of economic and cultural exchange. We are proud to lead this groundbreaking endeavour and cannot wait to see the limitless potential of our people come to life through this transformative project.”

The agreement was signed by Mr. Reginald Saunders, Acting Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Grand Bahama and Mrs. Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development Bank, Afreximbank and was witnessed by The Hon. Philip Edward Davis, K.C., Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Commonwealth of The Bahamas, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Afreximbank and Hon. Ginger Moxey, Minister for Grand Bahama.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact
Vincent Musumba
Manager
Communications and Events (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance, facilitate, and promote intra and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative instruments to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the AfCFTA, Afreximbank has in partnership with the African Union Commission and AFCFTA Secretariat launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the Free Trade Agreement. The AFCFTA Secretariat and the Bank have created a USD 10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries to effectively participate in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2023, Afreximbank’s total assets and guarantees stood at over US$37.3 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$6.1 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure, (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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Dalberg (www.Dalberg.com) is a strategic advisory firm that combines the best of private sector strategy skills and rigorous analytical capabilities with deep knowledge and networks across emerging and frontier markets. All projects include an option to integrate strategy design with implementation. With staff on the ground in more than 50 countries, speaking over 90 languages, and understanding diverse sectoral priorities and nuances, Dalberg is able to bring a local team to execute solutions tailored for the local market—while simultaneously drawing on global topical expertise and insight. Dalberg also offers the advantage of continuity. “The trusting relationships we build during the strategy phase carry through the inevitable pitfalls of execution,” points out Shruti Goyal, an Associate Partner with Dalberg. “We maintain senior project leadership from strategy through to execution and learning. This provides smooth transitions between phases of the project. Our ability to support clients in shaping their strategy is enhanced by bringing in the learning from implementation, particularly in addressing shifting client priorities, external disruptions, and opportunities.”

Since 2020, Dalberg has collaborated with governments, philanthropies, multilaterals, NGOs, and corporates to seamlessly integrate strategy and execution support for over 55 projects—including, recently:

Establishing the Malaria Vaccine Technical Assistance Program—in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance—to tackle head-on the challenges in vaccine deployment in Sub-Saharan Africa
Designing, testing, and scaling financial and non-financial solutions tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of rural women in Kenya.
Designing India’s first Skill Impact Bond (SIB)—an innovative approach to financing skilling and employment endeavors—and serving as performance manager to ensure the achievement of long-term career outcomes for young women.

Dalberg’s local presence also allows it to partner with grassroots organizations to drive implementation at the community level. “Our goal is systemic change,” says Goyal. “We hope to continue our deep partnerships from the start of the strategy journey through to execution to maximize the impact from our work.”

Below are two examples of how we have helped deliver complex assignments across multiple topics and geographies in Africa.

The Malaria Vaccine Technical Assistance Program – Lillian Kidane

Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for over 90% of malaria cases and related deaths globally and faces a host of challenges in vaccine deployment—from accessibility to integration with existing health systems. Earlier this year, Dalberg established the Malaria Vaccine Technical Assistance Program in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The initiative constitutes a comprehensive strategy to integrate the vaccine into national health systems, ensuring that the vaccine reaches the most vulnerable populations. Dalberg is working with multiple countries over the next three years to create tailored approaches to rolling out the new malaria vaccine. “We’re already seeing results,” says Lillian Kidane, Partner and Dalberg’s Regional Director for Africa. In Cameroon, for example, the successful launch of the malaria vaccine in 42 health districts has laid the groundwork for scaling up to the remaining 74 health districts. “The work also strengthens the case for promoting comprehensive healthcare delivery at the community level,” Kidane adds. Valuable insights from the program will facilitate the introduction of future vaccines, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

Rural Women’s Agricultural Aspirations – Naoko Koyama

Dalberg is working with the World Bank, Amtech, and CGAP to design, test, and scale financial and non-financial solutions to meet the unique needs and aspirations of rural women in Kenya. Through the program, Dalberg aims to increase rural women’s use of financial and non-financial services, taking advantage of the national network of digitized and sustainable savings and credit cooperative organizations (SACCOs) as trusted community financial institutions, and strengthening access to markets through digitized farmer producer organizations (FPOs) and climate-smart agtechs and agribusinesses. The aim is to integrate services that include access to inputs, information, extension and capacity strengthening, and digital technology to enhance agricultural production. “Ultimately, we want to build more resilient agricultural livelihoods with increased access to financial services and markets, particularly for women,” says Naoko Koyama, a Dalberg Partner based in South Africa.

Looking forward

Dalberg sees a range of ways in which governments, philanthropies, multilaterals, NGOs, and private sector companies can accelerate their impact with implementation support, especially when they are taking on complex issues at the systems level. To learn more about our implementation work, please contact Shruti Goyal.

Contact: shruti.goyal@dalberg.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Dalberg Advisors.