Latest news with #JoãoLourenço
Associated Press
4 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
African Energy Chamber: Angolan President João Lourenço Selected as 'Energy Person of the Year'
President Lourenço has transformed Angola's oil and gas sector through regulatory reform, peace and stability, good governance and anti-corruption JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA / ACCESS Newswire / May 27, 2025 / Angola's President João Lourenço has been selected as the 'Energy Person of the Year' by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) ( ), in recognition of his drive for good governance, commitment to reform and work to address corruption in Africa. The award recognizes President Lourenço's instrumental role in transforming Angola into one of Africa's biggest oil and gas producers and how his forward-looking vision is expected to consolidate the country's position as a regional petroleum hub in Africa. Since his election in 2017, President Lourenço has turned Angola's economy - and broader oil and gas industry - around. With ageing oilfields and reduced upstream investment, the country was witnessing rapid production decline. However, President Lourenço's long-term strategy to revitalize the industry saw a series of milestones achieved, and in 2025, the country continues to witness a positive growth trajectory across its oil and gas sector. By introducing flexible investment structures, President Lourenço spurred interest back into the industry, leading to greater investment across the entire energy value chain. These include risk service contracts, a permanent offer scheme, marginal fields opportunities and an incremental production initiative. The privatization of Sonangol, the establishment of the upstream and downstream regulators and revised tax codes have further catalyzed spending and transparency in Angola. President Lourenço has also set clear targets for the country. These include plans to sustain oil output above one million barrels per day (bpd) beyond 2027, scaling-up capacity in the natural gas sector while accelerating green energy development. In the oil sector, President Lourenço has spearheaded new development opportunities across the upstream and downstream sectors. With a six-year licensing round introduced in 2019, the country witnessed a surge in investments as major operators sought out new discoveries in both the on- and offshore markets. Now, the country anticipates a $60 billion five-year investment drive, as major players expand their portfolios. Upcoming projects include the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development by Azule Energy and the TotalEnergies-led Kaminho development. To further bolster production, Angola is also opening doors to new block opportunities. A licensing round launching in 2025 will further entice spending, offering 10 blocks for exploration in the Kwanza and Benguela Basins. The country also offers 11 blocks for investment via direct negotiation in conjunction with five marginal fields opportunities. Angola's flexible investment structures - spearheaded by President Lourenço and aimed at supporting a variety of investments - continue to play a major part in facilitating spending across Angola's upstream market. President Lourenço has also positioned the natural gas sector as a catalyst for development in Angola. Already an LNG producer, the country strives to enhance production capacity through associated and non-associated projects. The country's first non-associated project - led by the New Gas Consortium - will come online in late-2025 or early-2026. However, President Lourenço's drive in Angola goes beyond the upstream sector. To address domestic fuel demand, the country targets a refining capacity of upwards of 400,000 bpd. The first phase of the Cabinda oil refinery will begin operations in 2025, introducing 60,000 bpd to the market. Additional investment opportunities in the downstream sector include the planned 200,000 bpd Lobito refinery and the 100,000 Soyo refinery. Under President Lourenço's leadership, the country has engaged investors on these projects, while promoting new downstream developments that promise greater fuel security in both Angola and the broader region. President Lourenço's achievements go beyond oil and gas development. Recognizing the vital need to address climate change concerns, President Lourenço has also been a strong advocate for diversified investments in Africa. Angola is spearheading renewable energy projects as well as green hydrogen. With a commitment to improving peace in Africa, President Lourenço continues to work closely with regional counterparts to foster stability. As Angola celebrates 50 years of independence in 2025, President Lourenço's drive to facilitate inclusive development in Africa will serve as a source of inspiration. 'President Lourenço has not only been an instrumental leader in Angola but has played a major part in facilitating investment and development across the broader African oil and gas landscape. By committing to industry reform, working closely with international partners and implementing clear and actionable objectives, President Lourenço has shaped Angola's oil and gas market into what it is today,' states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. The 'Energy Person of the Year' celebrates the achievements of President Lourenço, highlighting how his ambitious and inclusive approach to development has unlocked a wealth of opportunities for Angola and the broader region. Previous award winners include Frank Fannon, Former United States Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Mohammed S. Barkindo, former OPEC Secretary General, former Namibian President Hage Geingob, Meg O'Neill, CEO and Managing Director, Woodside Energy and Dr. Benedict Oramah, President & Chairman of the Board of Directors, African Export-Import Bank. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. Download Image: SOURCE: African Energy Chamber press release
Zawya
4 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Angolan President João Lourenço Selected as ‘Energy Person of the Year'
Angola's President João Lourenço has been selected as the 'Energy Person of the Year' by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) ( in recognition of his drive for good governance, commitment to reform and work to address corruption in Africa. The award recognizes President Lourenço's instrumental role in transforming Angola into one of Africa's biggest oil and gas producers and how his forward-looking vision is expected to consolidate the country's position as a regional petroleum hub in Africa. Since his election in 2017, President Lourenço has turned Angola's economy – and broader oil and gas industry - around. With ageing oilfields and reduced upstream investment, the country was witnessing rapid production decline. However, President Lourenço's long-term strategy to revitalize the industry saw a series of milestones achieved, and in 2025, the country continues to witness a positive growth trajectory across its oil and gas sector. By introducing flexible investment structures, President Lourenço spurred interest back into the industry, leading to greater investment across the entire energy value chain. These include risk service contracts, a permanent offer scheme, marginal fields opportunities and an incremental production initiative. The privatization of Sonangol, the establishment of the upstream and downstream regulators and revised tax codes have further catalyzed spending and transparency in Angola. President Lourenço has also set clear targets for the country. These include plans to sustain oil output above one million barrels per day (bpd) beyond 2027, scaling-up capacity in the natural gas sector while accelerating green energy development. In the oil sector, President Lourenço has spearheaded new development opportunities across the upstream and downstream sectors. With a six-year licensing round introduced in 2019, the country witnessed a surge in investments as major operators sought out new discoveries in both the on- and offshore markets. Now, the country anticipates a $60 billion five-year investment drive, as major players expand their portfolios. Upcoming projects include the Agogo Integrated West Hub Development by Azule Energy and the TotalEnergies-led Kaminho development. To further bolster production, Angola is also opening doors to new block opportunities. A licensing round launching in 2025 will further entice spending, offering 10 blocks for exploration in the Kwanza and Benguela Basins. The country also offers 11 blocks for investment via direct negotiation in conjunction with five marginal fields opportunities. Angola's flexible investment structures – spearheaded by President Lourenço and aimed at supporting a variety of investments – continue to play a major part in facilitating spending across Angola's upstream market. President Lourenço has also positioned the natural gas sector as a catalyst for development in Angola. Already an LNG producer, the country strives to enhance production capacity through associated and non-associated projects. The country's first non-associated project – led by the New Gas Consortium – will come online in late-2025 or early-2026. However, President Lourenço's drive in Angola goes beyond the upstream sector. To address domestic fuel demand, the country targets a refining capacity of upwards of 400,000 bpd. The first phase of the Cabinda oil refinery will begin operations in 2025, introducing 60,000 bpd to the market. Additional investment opportunities in the downstream sector include the planned 200,000 bpd Lobito refinery and the 100,000 Soyo refinery. Under President Lourenço's leadership, the country has engaged investors on these projects, while promoting new downstream developments that promise greater fuel security in both Angola and the broader region. President Lourenço's achievements go beyond oil and gas development. Recognizing the vital need to address climate change concerns, President Lourenço has also been a strong advocate for diversified investments in Africa. Angola is spearheading renewable energy projects as well as green hydrogen. With a commitment to improving peace in Africa, President Lourenço continues to work closely with regional counterparts to foster stability. As Angola celebrates 50 years of independence in 2025, President Lourenço's drive to facilitate inclusive development in Africa will serve as a source of inspiration. 'President Lourenço has not only been an instrumental leader in Angola but has played a major part in facilitating investment and development across the broader African oil and gas landscape. By committing to industry reform, working closely with international partners and implementing clear and actionable objectives, President Lourenço has shaped Angola's oil and gas market into what it is today,' states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. The 'Energy Person of the Year' celebrates the achievements of President Lourenço, highlighting how his ambitious and inclusive approach to development has unlocked a wealth of opportunities for Angola and the broader region. Previous award winners include Frank Fannon, Former United States Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources, Mohammed S. Barkindo, former OPEC Secretary General, former Namibian President Hage Geingob, Meg O'Neill, CEO and Managing Director, Woodside Energy and Dr. Benedict Oramah, President&Chairman of the Board of Directors, African Export-Import Bank. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
See - Sada Elbalad
24-05-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
AU Commission's Celebration of Africa Day Highlights 2025 theme of Demanding Justice, Reparations
Nada Mustafa The African Union (AU) Commission held a high-level official celebration at its headquarters in Addis Ababa to mark Africa Day 2025. The ceremony featured video addresses from the President of Angola, João Lourenço, as Chairperson of the African Union; the President of Ghana, John Mahama, as the African Union Champion for Advancing Justice and Reparations for Africans; the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Yusuf; and the Ethiopian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hadera Abera, representing the host country. In his video address as Chair of the African Union, the President of Angola pointed out that the occasion is not only a call to remember, but also a call to galvanize will, complementing the founding fathers' calls for liberation and decolonization. He added that Africa must strengthen its efforts to peacefully resolve regional conflicts and promote democratic governance to address the numerous challenges it faces in the areas of peace and security, youth unemployment, weak infrastructure, particularly in transportation and communications, and the lack of diversification of national economies. He emphasized that despite these challenges, the continent's will and improved governance enable it to capitalize not only on its natural resources, but also on its human capital, particularly its youth, who have the potential to transform digital technology, renewable energy, and integrated industries. He called for a conference for the Continental Free Trade Area on infrastructure and development policy enhancement this year, reaffirming the continent's focus on the future and commitment to a free and united Africa that overcomes the injustices of the past. In his video address as the African Union's champion for justice and reparations for Africans, the President of Ghana emphasized that the African Union's theme for the year aims to rectify the injustices inflicted on the continent. He explained that justice has many aspects, including offering clear apologies from the countries that committed these injustices, resolving the debt problems facing African countries, abandoning unfair trade practices, enabling the continent to achieve sustainable development, returning stolen cultural property, and developing educational curricula by teaching African history. He emphasized that the African Union is committed to defending these rights through solidarity among its member states with the aim of building a continent characterized by equality and obtaining due reparations. For his part, the Chairperson of the African Commission noted that remembrance is sometimes bitter, but it is also filled with hope for rectifying injustices. He indicated that the 2025 theme for the African Union is a mandate from the heads of state to achieve justice for the millions of Africans who suffered in the trans-atlantic enslavement. He emphasized that, despite this, Africa does not merely look to the past, but is determined to move forward into the future, leveraging its unique resources and advantages in all areas to fulfill the aspirations of its people, especially women and youth. He emphasized that the continent has to occupy its lawful place in international decision-making mechanisms, highlighting that the African Union's membership in the G20 is evidence of its global standing. He emphasized the responsibility of Africans to protect the continent's resources for the future through its unity as established by the founding fathers as a principle and strategic direction. Ambassador Amr Aljowaily, Director of the Directorate for Citizens' Organizations and African Diaspora at the African Union Commission, explained that the Directorate is tasked with coordinating the system-wide efforts and activities of the Union, across its various organs and units, around this year's theme of "Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations." He added that this includes working within the framework of the United Nations, particularly through the implementation of the "Second Decade for People of African Descent," in addition to cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), along with strengthening ties with African diaspora communities across various continents, including the Caribbean, the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The celebration also included speeches by the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Youssouf Mandouh Osman, Ambassador of the Union of the Comoros to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union; UNESCO Representative Dr. Rita Bissonnouth; Ambassador Martin Kimani, Chair of the United Nations Permanent Forum on People of African Descent; and Noah Thiam, President of the African Union Staff Association. 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TimesLIVE
23-05-2025
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
Historic partnership forged against hunger
Mankind has no right to leave 733-million people to the scourge of hunger. In a world that annually produces almost 6-billion tonnes of food, this is inadmissible. In a world where military spending reached $2.4-trillion last year, this is unacceptable. Hunger and poverty do not result from shortages or natural phenomena; often they are outcomes of political decisions that perpetuate the exclusion of a major portion of humanity. It is based on this understanding that, this week, Brazil received representatives of 42 African countries and nine international organisations for the second Brazil-Africa Dialogue on Food Security, Combating Hunger and Rural Development. This meeting was part of Africa Week in Brazil, preceding the state visit of Angolan President João Lourenço on May 23. Brazil wants to be a partner on the path towards sovereign insertion of the AU, which entails an agricultural development strategy that aims to achieve a 45% increase in food production on the continent by 2035 Brazil wants to be a partner on the path towards sovereign insertion of the AU, which entails an agricultural development strategy that aims to achieve a 45% increase in food production on the continent by 2035. Brazil has much to contribute in this regard. We have become a farming and food-production powerhouse, thanks to science, technology and decisive state-sponsored actions that have promoted agriculture. It is based on this experience that we wish to exchange knowledge, share and make partnerships. During their visit to Brazil, African representatives, among them many ministers of agriculture, got the opportunity to learn about successful Brazilian experiences. They learnt about the work of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) and co-operatives that supply initiatives such as the School Meals Programme, which reaches 40-million children. They saw how semi-arid areas of Brazil have been transformed into food-export hubs, through adaptation of water-scarcity technologies, adopting solutions that could be useful in certain regions of Africa. The dialogue that took place this week is part of a broader agenda. Last November, during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, we launched the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty. In the six months since then, the alliance has gained more than 180 members, including 95 countries. Benin, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Zambia were selected for accelerated implementation of Global-Alliance projects. These programmes will focus on areas such as family farming, school meals, access to water, income transfers and sustainable livestock. During this week we discussed ways to expand engagement of African countries through this initiative. I am convinced that cultural, economic and political affinities between Brazil and African nations are essential elements for building the more egalitarian world we all seek. Africa, after all, has always been a presence in the formation of Brazil. I have often said that Africa is part of Brazil and that Brazil is part of Africa. More than half of the 212-million Brazilians acknowledge African ancestry. We share the Portuguese language with six African countries. Africa's contribution to the ethnic and cultural diversity of Brazil is immeasurable. We owe our very way of being to Africa. My relationship with Africa runs deep. In Addis Ababa, last year, I completed my 21st visit to the continent. With each journey, my admiration for Africa and its peoples is reinforced. The dialogue that took place between Brazil and Africa is a landmark in the historical and strategic relationship that unites our peoples. Strengthening relations with the countries of Africa is a priority of my administration, reflecting historic ties, shared values, convergent interests and a commitment to co-operation based on solidarity, mutual respect, and the promotion of social inclusion and sustainable development.
BBC News
16-05-2025
- Politics
- BBC News
Ali Bongo: Gabon's ousted ex-president and family arrive in Angola
Gabon's former President, Ali Bongo, who was deposed in a 2023 coup, has left the country and is now in Angola, the authorities there have Angolan presidency added in a statement posted on social media that Bongo's family had been released from detention and were with him in wife and son, Sylvia and Noureddin, faced corruption charges and had been imprisoned in 2023. They have not yet publicly commented on the charges, however Ms Bongo's lawyer has described her detention as arbitrary and illegal. The family's release comes after Angolan President João Lourenço, who currently heads the African Union, visited Libreville and held talks with his Gabonese counterpart Brice Oligui Nguema - the former general who led the coup against Bongo before being elected president last remains unclear if the legal proceedings against Sylvia and Noureddin Bongo will Bongo, whose father Omar Bongo ruled Gabon for more than four decades, led the country for 14 years until the 2023 his toppling he was placed under house arrest where he reportedly remained, although Gabonese authorities say he was free to move about as he wished. His wife and son were detained in prison and then reportedly released to house arrest last has been vocal in condemning what he described as the "violence and torture" faced by his wife and son, although the authorities had denied subjecting the pair to cruel their 14 years in power, the Bongo family had been accused of accumulating wealth for themselves at the expense of the country - allegations they Gabon being an oil-rich nation, a third of its population lives below the poverty line, according to the UN. More stories from the BBC about Gabon: Who is Ali Bongo?Why Gabon's coup leader is bucking a trend by embracing democracyBrice Oligui Nguema: The coup leader who stormed to election victory Go to for more news from the African us on Twitter @BBCAfrica, on Facebook at BBC Africa or on Instagram at bbcafrica
