Category: Reportage

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

TRIPOLI, Libya, January 16, 2025/APO Group/ —

The third edition of the Libya Energy & Economic Summit is fast approaching and will take place on January 18-19 in Tripoli. LEES 2025 showcases Libya’s energy potential and highlights emerging opportunities, with a focus on the country’s upcoming licensing round, renewed exploration activities and private-sector investment prospects.

The two-day summit will feature a Strategic Conference and Technical Program, addressing critical topics such as Libya’s role in global energy markets, technological innovations for a sustainable future, gender diversity in the energy sector and strategies to accelerate industry growth. The Grand Opening will feature remarks from Libya’s top leadership, including the Ministry of Oil & Gas and National Oil Corporation (NOC), alongside international organizations such as OPEC, Gas Exporting Countries Forum and African Petroleum Producers Organization, followed by high-level panel discussions.

Notable sessions include a Ministerial Panel on “Global Energy Alliances – Uniting for a Secure and Sustainable Energy Future,” which will explore the role of international cooperation in the Mediterranean and beyond in shaping a resilient energy landscape. An IOC-led panel, “Unlocking Libya – the Next Frontier for Exploration and Investment,” featuring TotalEnergies, Eni, Repsol, OMV, Nabors and the NOC, will highlight Libya’s untapped potential for exploration and development. Influential leaders from Baker Hughes, bp, NESR, Türkiye Petrolleri, SLB, ConocoPhillips and the NOC will unite to discuss Libya’s pivotal role at “the Nexus of the Global Energy Trade,” with a focus on technology and services. 

The technical program component, hosted by the Society of Petroleum Engineers of Libya (SPE) and the NOC, will unpack specialized topics ranging from reservoir performance optimization to sustainability in offshore operations to future-proof payment systems for Libya’s energy sector. This includes presentations from S&P Global Commodity Insights, Sirte Oil Company, Delta United Group, Tumi Law Firm, Reda Energy, Assail Drilling Company, Akakus Oil Company, Waha Oil Company and others. The technical program will also feature Fireside Chats with representatives from TotalEnergies, Repsol and Eni, as well as Roundtable Discussions focusing on current and future Italy-Libya and U.S.-Libya partnerships.

Delegates will have ample opportunities to network with industry leaders, investors and policymakers through a variety of sessions and events. The summit is proud to have several esteemed companies as Diamond Sponsors, including Mellitah Oil & Gas, Assail Drilling Company – powered by Nabors, Eni, OMV, Repsol, and TotalEnergies, all of whom are actively participating in the event, further enhancing the summit’s significance and impact.

The Libya Energy & Economic Summit is set to take place in Tripoli on January 18-19, 2025. The event will bring together industry leaders, investors and policymakers, aiming to foster dialogue, secure investments and support the growth of Libya’s energy and infrastructure sectors. For more information, visit https://LibyaSummit.com

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

TRIPOLI, Libya, January 16, 2025/APO Group/ —

Zahaf & Partners Law Firm, a leading provider of legal and advisory services in Libya, has been announced as a Silver Sponsor of the upcoming Libya Energy & Economic Summit. Renowned for its extensive expertise in energy, infrastructure and investment, the firm is set to play a pivotal role in shaping discussions on strategies to unlock the potential of Libya’s energy market. 

As a prominent player in Libya’s legal landscape, Zahaf & Partners has been instrumental in advising major stakeholders on projects spanning oil and gas exploration, mining and metals, construction and infrastructure development. Its deep understanding of Libya’s regulatory environment has made them a trusted partner for international and domestic entities navigating the complexities of the country’s energy sector. The firm’s comprehensive services include contract negotiation, compliance advisory and investment structuring, contributing to the successful execution of numerous high-profile energy projects. 

At this year’s edition of LEES, Zahaf & Partners is sponsoring the panel, “Building Investor Confidence: Strategies to Unlock Libya’s Energy Market Potential.” The session will convene key stakeholders to discuss actionable strategies for enhancing Libya’s attractiveness as an energy investment destination, focusing on regulatory reform, risk mitigation and frameworks for fostering public-private partnerships and driving sustainable sector growth. Featured panelists include representatives from the Libyan Foreign Bank, Murzuq Oil Services, Harbour Energy, technology and engineering firm KBR, the Libyan Investment Authority and the National Oil Corporation. 

Mohamed Dikna, Senior Consultant at Zahaf & Partners, will participate as a speaker, sharing insights into the legal and advisory dimensions of building investor confidence in Libya. With years of experience in guiding investors through the country’s evolving energy landscape, Dikna will provide valuable perspectives on the role of legal frameworks and advisory services in enabling successful energy projects. The sponsorship underscores Zahaf & Partners’ commitment to supporting Libya’s economic transformation and energy development and highlights the critical intersection of legal expertise and strategic advisory in achieving long-term growth for the sector.  

The Libya Energy & Economic Summit is set to take place in Tripoli on January 18-19, 2025. The event will bring together industry leaders, investors and policymakers, aiming to foster dialogue, secure investments and support the growth of Libya’s energy and infrastructure sectors. For more information, visit https://LibyaSummit.com 

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

In preparation for the inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025, taking place from March 25-26 in Brazzaville, three prestigious hotels have announced exclusive promotional offers for conference attendees. Hilton Brazzaville Les Tours Jumelles Hotel & Residences, Grand Hotel Kintele and Radisson Blue Brazzaville have partnered with the event to provide discounts and top-tier accommodation for participants. 

Hilton Brazzaville Les Tours Jumelles Hotel & Residences, which features a fully equipped business center, will offer a 10% discount on its original rates for CEIF 2025 attendees. Meanwhile, Grand Hotel Kintele, situated just outside the city center, is offering a 20% discount for attendees. Radisson Blue Brazzaville will offer a 5% discount.  

The inaugural Congo Energy & Investment Forum, scheduled for March 25-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional opportunities in energy and infrastructure. The event will highlight the latest gas-to-power transformation projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country. 

CEIF 2025 will highlight innovative projects and foster strategic partnerships that enhance investment, drive economic growth and position the Republic of Congo as a leader in Africa’s energy expansion. The event is set to attract government leaders, C-suite executives from major international oil companies and energy experts, who will offer critical insights into the country’s oil, gas and energy sector developments. 

This unique 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. 

With this exclusive hotel partnership, attendees can enjoy premium accommodation at a reduced rate, facilitating ease of access and networking opportunities for local and international delegates. 

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

LAGOS, Nigeria, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has successfully priced a US$500 million perpetual hybrid bond. This landmark transaction, which is AFC’s debut hybrid bond issue, demonstrates AFC’s leadership in accessing global capital markets and financing transformative infrastructure projects across the continent.

Priced at a coupon of 7.50% with no fixed maturity, AFC’s maiden perpetual bond attracted robust demand, peaking at US$1.1 billion in orders, and closed with 1.5 times oversubscription. The issuance will further enhance AFC’s robust capital position while providing investors with certainty during the initial non-callable period of 5.25 years, after which the Corporation would manage the bond in line with its financial strategy. By blending features of both equity and debt, the hybrid instrument – which offers 100% equity credit recognition from Moody’s Investor Services – strengthens AFC’s balance sheet while maintaining financial flexibility to support long-term growth.

“This landmark inaugural hybrid bond issuance underscores AFC’s unwavering dedication to advancing bold and transformative infrastructure projects across Africa,” stated Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of Africa Finance Corporation. “Through innovative financial instruments, we are mobilising global capital to support Africa’s sustainable development, industrialisation and integration, notwithstanding tightening financial conditions.”

“This hybrid bond issuance represents a significant milestone for AFC and the continent,” said Banji Fehintola, Executive Board Member and Head, Financial Services at AFC. “It demonstrates the confidence global investors have in AFC’s ability to deliver transformative development across Africa. By strengthening our equity base and diversifying our funding sources, we are well positioned to drive infrastructure solutions that accelerate Africa’s industrialization and economic transformation.”

AFC’s perpetual non-call 5.25-year hybrid issuance creates a new benchmark for African institutions looking to diversify their funding sources and builds on the Corporation’s proven expertise in structuring complex instruments that attract global investors and unlock new capital markets for the continent. AFC last year secured a US$1.16 billion syndicated loan, its biggest international transaction to date, attracting first-time lenders across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. In 2023, the Corporation welcomed its first non-African equity investor, Turk Eximbank, which invested US$110 million, its first investment in any African entity.

AFC’s latest transaction reflects growing confidence in hybrid bonds as a financing tool for multilateral development banks, following the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) inaugural hybrid issuance last year (first hybrid ever to be issued by an MDB).

BofA Securities, Emirates NBD Capital, J.P. Morgan, Mashreq, MUFG and Societe Generale acted as Joint Lead Managers for the issuance. Proceeds from the transaction will be utilised to further strengthen the Corporation’s capitalisation and balance sheet metrics to advance AFC’s mission to drive Africa’s structural transformation through high-impact projects like the Lobito Corridor Rail Project, which connects resource-rich, landlocked countries to global markets; the Red Sea Power Project, which is helping Djibouti achieve full renewable energy reliance; and Arise Integrated Industrial Projects, which reduce import dependency while creating high-value jobs.

AFC’s hybrid bond issuance will pave the way for more innovative financing solutions that unlock global capital and accelerate the continent’s economic transformation.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Paul McDade, CEO of UK-based oil company Afentra, has been confirmed as a speaker at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), taking place on March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville. Leveraging Afentra’s successful operations in Angola, McDade will highlight the company’s strategic approach to optimizing mid-life oilfields and driving sustainable production growth across Africa.

Afentra entered Angola in May 2023, later signing a sale and purchase agreement with Azule Energy in July 2023. The deal secured an additional 12% interest in Block 3/05 and 16% stake in Block 3/05A offshore Angola for up to $84.5 million. The acquisition built on Afentra’s earlier agreement with Angolan NOC Sonangol, which included a 14% non-operating interest in Block 3/05 and a 40% stake in Block 23. Afentra’s success in Angola serves as a model for the Republic of Congo, where similar opportunities exist to unlock value from mature assets and drive sustainable production growth.

The inaugural Congo Economic and Investment Forum, set for March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

Focusing on the Lower Congo Basin, Afentra is building a portfolio of mid-life producing assets that fall outside the core priorities of major oil companies. The company’s strategy emphasizes optimizing, redeveloping and extending the life of these assets in a safe and responsible manner, while minimizing emissions. This approach directly aligns with the Republic of Congo’s goal to revitalize mature fields and increase oil production to 500,000 barrels per day by 2027.

“Afentra’s success in Angola showcases the value of optimizing mid-life assets to deliver long-term results and enhance regional energy security,” said James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power, organizers of the forum. “Paul McDade’s insights at CEIF 2025 will be invaluable in shaping strategies to maximize production and achieve Congo’s energy goals.”

For more information about the Congo Energy & Investment Forum and to secure your participation, visit https://CongoEnergyInvestment.com/.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

PARIS, France, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Premier Invest – a global investment conglomerate – will host a Deal Room at the upcoming Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum (http://Invest-Africa-Energy.com/) in Paris, scheduled for May 13-14. This exclusive platform is designed to connect energy companies, project developers, financial institutions and investors to advance critical energy projects across the continent. The Deal Room offers a unique space for negotiating deals, fostering partnerships and driving capital flow into the rapidly growing African energy sector.

IAE 2025, a major energy investment platform, brings together leading figures from Africa’s energy landscape to explore opportunities across the oil, gas, renewables and infrastructure sectors. Premier Invest’s Deal Room will be a central feature of the forum, providing a focused environment for private equity firms, international investors and development finance institutions to engage with project developers and governments on high-value transactions.

IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4gRUbjy) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

As Africa’s energy sector continues to evolve, there is a growing demand for financial support to meet the continent’s energy needs. The Deal Room’s core focus will be on driving investments into large-scale infrastructure, exploration and production ventures, renewable energy projects, and gas-to-power initiatives. The platform will allow participants to engage in one-on-one meetings, presenting opportunities to sign deals, secure financing and structure partnerships across a diverse range of energy projects.

These areas represent key opportunities for growth and profitability in Africa, with Premier Invest playing a critical role in mobilizing the necessary capital to ensure their success. The Deal Room will facilitate high-level engagement, providing a venue for governments, energy companies, financial institutions and investors to align their goals and support the continent’s ambitious energy development targets. By promoting strategic collaborations and investment opportunities, the platform will contribute to the long-term growth and sustainability of Africa’s energy sector.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

PARIS, France, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Rene Awambeng, Founder and Managing Partner of Premier Invest, will share insights on investment opportunities and strategies driving Africa’s energy sector at the Invest in African Energy Forum (IAE) (http://Invest-Africa-Energy.com/), taking place in Paris next May. 

Premier Invest is a leading financial firm focused on financing and fostering energy projects across Africa. With a strong track record of facilitating investments, the company has been at the forefront of Africa’s energy growth. In 2024, Premier Invest marked a significant milestone by securing strategic partnerships with key industry players, including energy major Shell, to co-finance high-impact oil and gas projects throughout the continent.

IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4gTrzX6) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

At IAE 2025, Awambeng will provide an in-depth overview of Premier Invest’s role in advancing large-scale energy projects. He will discuss the firm’s innovative approach to financing, the importance of strategic partnerships, and its successful track record in securing funding for Africa’s energy sector. Premier Invest is currently involved in projects spanning across oil, gas, and renewable energy, emphasizing the need for collaborative funding models to accelerate energy infrastructure development.

Beyond its work in oil and gas, Premier Invest has been instrumental in supporting the growth of renewable energy in Africa. The firm is actively involved in financing solar and wind energy projects and has been a key player in advancing Africa’s energy transition. During his session at IAE 2025, Awambeng will highlight the critical role that innovative financing solutions, such as blended finance, can play in mobilizing investment for the continent’s growing energy needs.

In addition to his work with Premier Invest, Awambeng brings a wealth of experience and expertise in energy finance and project development, having previously served as the Global Head for Client Relations at the African Export-Import Bank. His leadership has been instrumental in securing funding for some of Africa’s most promising energy projects, positioning Premier Invest as a key player in shaping the future of Africa’s energy sector.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Houston-based organization Unite Oil & Gas has joined the inaugural edition of the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) as a Silver Sponsor. Yachtze Luchin, President and CEO, will speak at the event, offering insights into the company’s strategic projects and plans for the Republic of Congo. 

Through its BOMOKO joint venture with ARIES Energy, Unite Oil & Gas is leading efforts to revitalize Congo’s mature assets. The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding in November 2024 to establish the joint venture, a move Luchin has described as a key milestone. He emphasized that the partnership aligns with the company’s mission to maximize Congo’s oil and gas potential, while training and empowering local talent. This collaboration is expected to play a vital role in achieving the company’s target of 25,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day by the end of 2026.

The inaugural Congo Economic and Investment Forum, set for March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

Unite Oil & Gas specializes in optimizing hydrocarbon resources often considered marginal by major oil companies in Africa. The company delivers a range of services including consulting, facility management, equipment supply, operations and comprehensive development and production solutions. In April 2024, Unite Oil & Gas signed a strategic energy services contract with Congolese national oil company Société nationale des pétroles du Congo to support drilling campaigns and investment projects aimed at boosting Congo’s oil production.

By participating in CEIF 2025, Unite Oil & Gas reinforces its commitment to seizing growth opportunities in the Republic of Congo and underscores the importance of the forum as a platform for showcasing investments and engaging with Congolese energy authorities. CEIF 2025 offers a unique opportunity for companies to present their latest initiatives and connect with key market players.

For more information about the Congo Energy & Investment Forum and to secure your participation, visit https://CongoEnergyInvestment.com.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Gregory Goldberg, Senior Vice President of Golar LNG, will highlight the company’s fleet operations in Central Africa and provide valuable insights into the operational efficiencies and economic advantages of FLNG technology at the first edition of the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), taking place on March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville.

Goldberg is expected to discuss the pivotal role of floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) technology in advancing offshore gas monetization across Africa. As a leader in FLNG solutions, Golar LNG has become a key player in reshaping the energy landscape in the region, and Goldberg’s insights will be invaluable for understanding the benefits of these technologies in unlocking Africa’s energy potential.

The inaugural Congo Economic and Investment Forum, set for March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

Golar LNG’s expertise in FLNG technology is exemplified by the Hilli Episeyo, currently operational in Cameroon under a charter agreement with independent oil company Perenco. This successful collaboration underscores the transformative potential of FLNG solutions in unlocking value from regional gas resources. As the Republic of Congo advances its LNG and gas expansion plans, including the development of its offshore gas reserves and infrastructure, Golar LNG’s proven track record positions it as a strategic partner. FLNG technology offers a cost-effective and scalable solution for monetizing Congo’s abundant gas resources, driving energy security and economic growth while supporting the country’s ambitions to become a regional LNG powerhouse.

“As the Republic of Congo looks to expand its LNG capabilities and tap into offshore resources, Golar LNG’s participation highlights the importance of innovative marine contracting services in driving regional energy advancements. CEIF 2025 will serve as a platform to explore the critical role of FLNG solutions in monetizing Congo’s vast gas reserves,” said James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power.

For more information about the Congo Energy & Investment Forum and to secure your participation, visit https://CongoEnergyInvestment.com.

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, January 15, 2025/APO Group/ —

Junior and independent exploration and production companies are increasingly driving growth in the Republic of Congo’s hydrocarbon sector, as the country works to boost production to 500,000 barrels per day by 2027. These players are crucial to achieving this target by driving exploration and boosting production capacity.

During the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025 in Brazzaville, E&P firm Olive Energy will outline the company’s ambitious approach to boosting offshore production in the Republic of Congo. Olive Energy has joined the event an Elite Sponsor, with the company’s CEO & Founder Ahmed Ouenes speaking.

The inaugural Congo Economic and Investment Forum, set for March 25-26, 2025 in Brazzaville, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

Having entered the Congolese market in 2021, Olive Energy is focusing on the Marine III license with a prospective $400 million project. This venture will involve the development of wellhead platforms linked to a FPSO vessel, marking a significant step in the company’s growth within Congo’s offshore fields. Olive Energy farmed-into the project earlier this year, seeking to boost production and strategic investments in the Republic of Congo.

Olive Energy has already established a strong partnership with the Congo’s national oil company Société nationale des pétroles du Congo through its ongoing drilling activities at the Tilapia oil field, further solidifying its presence in the country’s oil sector. CEIF 2025 provides an ideal platform for upstream firms to showcase milestones, ongoing projects and investment plans, unlocking new prospects within the Congo’s upstream market.

During CEIF 2025, Ouenes will provide an update on the Marine III project, detailing the role offshore investments will play in supporting the Republic of Congo’s production goals. His participation as a speaker – as well as Olive Energy’s contribution as a sponsor – speaks to the role the event plays as a global meeting place for the Republic of Congo’s energy industry.

For more information about the Congo Energy & Investment Forum and to secure your participation, visit https://apo-opa.co/40zpolU.