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New cases: 12 Cumulative confirmed cases: 33,673 Active cases: 1,658 Total recovered: 30,757 (71 new) Currently admitted in treatment units: 24 (4 new) New discharges from treatment units: 3 Total tests conducted: 220,629 (245 new) Total deaths: 1,124 (1 new) Total vaccinated to date: 160,445 (871 new)
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health and Population, Republic of Malawi. Media files

Coronavirus – Malawi: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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Daily: Laboratory test: 9,038 Severe cases: 862 New recovered: 1,054 New deaths: 37 New cases: 2,138

Total: Laboratory test: 2,398,596 Active cases: 51,303 Total recovered: 163,022 Total deaths: 3,000 Total cases: 217,327
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Ethiopia. Media files

Coronavirus – Ethiopia: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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Tests conducted: 9,979,294 Positive cases identified: 1,552,416 Total recoveries: 1,478,088 Total deaths: 52,995 New cases: 452
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa, Department of Health. Media files

Coronavirus – South Africa: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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Following the widely acclaimed release of NJ Ayuk, Managing Director of Centurion Law Group (www.CenturionLG.com) and Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber’s (www.EnergyChamber.org) second book, Billions At Play: The Future of African Energy and Making Deals, the resourceful and bold book has become #1 Amazon Best Selling eBook overall, #2 Wall Street Journal Best Selling eBook, #4 USA Today Non-Fiction Business Best Selling eBook and #10 Wall Street Journal Non-Fiction Combined best seller.

Billions At Play became number one on Amazon in several categories only a few days after its initial release in 2019, making it one of Africa’s energy best-seller. This second edition, which opens once again on a foreword by H.E. Mohamed Sanusi Barkindo, Secretary General of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and features a new chapter dedicated to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on African oil markets, which is narrated by Adera Gandy and Boet Schouwinck.
In a strong indication of Ayuk’s popularity around the world, Billions At Play: The Future of African Energy and Making Deals sold 7,020 units with peak sales of 2,803 units in a single day. ‘’This is great news because we can still tell Africa&#39;s complex energy story with a hopeful narrative and still be a bestseller in the US. We don&#39;t have to be negative or continue the crab in a barrel mindset that has not helped us. Any achievement is meaningless without thanking all the hands and hearts who helped us get there. I thank you a lot and continue to express my thoughts and experiences the best way I know how,’’ NJ Ayuk said.
The Amazon bestseller outlines the continents road to recovery plan that seeks to dissect the need for energy policy legislation, the lack of access to power, the role that access to reliable, sustainable, and affordable power can play in the acceleration of economic growth and most importantly, why the continent’s energy industry needs more women.
The book is currently available through leading retailers including Exclusivebooks.com (https://bit.ly/3fS1NG9), TakeAlot.com (https://bit.ly/3rURh31), Google Books (https://bit.ly/3mmPpPs), eBooks.com (https://bit.ly/2R3it2Q), Kindle (https://amzn.to/3wuTyph) and many more!
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
About NJ: NJ Ayuk (www.NJAyuk.com) is a leading energy lawyer and a strong advocate for African entrepreneurs. He is recognised as one of the foremost figures in African business today.
A Global Shaper with the World Economic Forum, one of Forbes’ Top 10 Most Influential Men in Africa in 2015, and a well-known dealmaker in the petroleum and power sectors, NJ is dedicating his career to helping entrepreneurs find success and to building the careers of young African lawyers.
As founder and CEO of Centurion Law Group, NJ strives through his work to ensure that business, and especially oil and gas, impacts African societies in a positive way and drives local content development. He is the current chairman of the African Energy Chamber and author of ‘Big Barrels: African Oil and Gas and the Quest for Prosperity’.
Media files

African Energy Thriller Becomes a Wall Street Journal Best-Seller List and tops US Market

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On 6 April, the United Nations celebrates the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, (https://bit.ly/323SQ4t) recognising the role that sport and physical activity plays in communities and in people’s lives across the world.

The occasion holds special resonance this year as the world seeks to recover from the devastation wreaked by the COVID-19 pandemic, with sport sure to play a crucial role in that effort.
To mark this important date in the calendar, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has written the following article in the UN Chronicle in which he details how FIFA and its many programmes remain &#8220;at the service of society&#8221; in this time of global need.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been an unprecedented time of distress and loss for the whole world. Foremost is the tragic loss of loved ones that so many have suffered. We have also largely lost our social lives and human interaction, including everyday activities such as participating in, or attending, a football match.
But there is light at the end of the tunnel, and with the roll-out of vaccines, we hope life will return as it is meant to be lived: together, without the barriers and constraints imposed by the pandemic.
As it has done before, football, the most popular sport in the world, will play a central role in bringing communities together. Through football, we will be able to get back in shape physically, socialise with our teammates and rivals, and fill stadiums again. We will regain some of what was lost in the past year and hopefully bring back joy and smiles.
We also have a unique opportunity for a fresh start. Football can be a powerful tool for action on many pressing global issues, including several of the most important United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as those related to health and well-being (SDG 3), quality education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), peace and conflict resolution (SDG 16).    
Football and the sport’s governing institution, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), have an unparalleled global reach. The 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia was watched by more than half the world’s population, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019 was seen by over 1 billion people. Such wide visibility provides our sport with a unique platform to promote the universal values of fair-play, inclusion, solidarity, diversity and teamwork, all critical to achieving the SDGs.   
We are equally fortunate to be able to call on football stars &#8211; the FIFA Legends &#8211; who are living examples of those values. They generously use their own platforms to spread messages about important social issues and help us reach a much wider audience, beyond football fans.
Sports organisations themselves have their role to play and should lead by example by engaging in partnerships to contribute to the international development agenda. FIFA has recently built alliances with a number of United Nations agencies—notably with the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), UN-Women, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the World Food Programme (WFP)—for the realisation of social development objectives, including promoting healthy lifestyles, crime prevention, sports integrity, youth development, gender equality and women’s empowerment, as well as education.
Education is indeed central to our global efforts to create a better world. Thanks to the Football for Schools Programme, we are investing $120 million in the education, through football, of the world’s young people to help them develop key life skills. Delayed because of the pandemic, the Programme is expected to start operations fully in 2021, when it can also help address disruptions in education caused by COVID-19, especially in some of the most affected regions of the world.
FIFA is also leading the way to create safer sporting environments, putting in place safeguarding measures to protect children through the FIFA Guardians programme, which aims to professionalize the role of safeguarding officers in football.
Since we must work together with state and local authorities in this area we have entered into a memorandum of understanding signed last year with UNODC, aimed at potentially establishing an independent, multi-sport, multi-agency, international entity with the authority and experience to assist international sports and ensure that we work together with law enforcement agencies and governments to eradicate any form of abuse and investigate cases as appropriate.
As we continue to fight back against COVID-19 and its effects, we do so with the aim of not just helping football—as we have with an unprecedented support package of $1.5 billion for the game’s organisers around the world through the FIFA COVID-19 Relief Plan (https://fifa.fans/39NYP1j) &#8211; but also society as a whole. From the moment the pandemic was declared, we, in collaboration with WHO, have contributed to vital public health messaging to promote safe hygiene practices aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. We continue to collaborate closely with WHO and amplify messages that support good health and save lives.
Football and society have a symbiotic relationship: what is good for society is good for football and vice versa. On this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (6 April 2021) (https://bit.ly/323SQ4t), FIFA is at the service of society, and we will continue to play any role we can in supporting the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA).
Contact for African media: AfricanMedia@fifa.org
Media files

Infantino: Football will play a central role in bringing communities together

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460 people have tested positive, from a sample size of 2,753. Positivity rate is 16.7%. Total confirmed positive cases are now 139,448. Cumulative tests so far conducted are 1,520,390.

Distribution of positive cases by age; 
 	0-9 years (14),  	10-19 years (17),  	20-29 years (66),  	30-39 years (111),  	40-49 years (98),  	50-59 years (73),  	60 and above (81). 
Cumulative deaths by age; 
 	0-9 years (45),  	10-19 years (17),  	20-29 (91),  	30-39 years (199),  	40-49 years (312),  	50-59 years (495),  	60 years and above (1,062). 
County distribution; 
 	Nairobi 295,  	Kitui 62,  	Machakos 29,  	Kiambu 28,  	Nyeri 12,  	Nakuru 12,  	Kajiado 9, Kilifi 4,  	Mandera 3,  	Laikipia 2,  	Meru 1,  	Mombasa 1,  	Nyandarua 1  	Kakamega 1. 
RECOVERIES: 178 patients have recovered from the disease, 99 from health facilities &#038; 79 are from the Home Based and Isolation Care. Total recoveries now stand at 94,361.
DEATHS: 20 deaths have been reported, (1) in the last 24 hours, 10 in the last one month &#038; 9 are late death reports from facility record audits. Cumulative fatalities are at 2,244. 
 Our sincere condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their loved ones. 
ADMISSIONS: 1,590 patients are currently admitted in various health facilities countrywide, 5,998 patients are on Home Based Isolation and Care. 200 patients are in the ICU, 40 on ventilatory support &#038; 130 on supplemental oxygen. 30 patients are on observation. 240 patients are separately on supplementary oxygen with 223 of them in the general wards and 17 in the High Dependency Unit.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Kenya.

Coronavirus – Kenya: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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While the world grappled with the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, war-torn Sudan had yet another catastrophe to contend with: a devastating flood that swept across the country in July 2020. One of the worst in over three decades, the torrential downpours triggered landslides that claimed more than 100 lives, destroyed more than 110,000 homes and damaged large tracts of farmland, leading the Sudanese government to declare a three-month national state of emergency (https://wapo.st/3cUmkYB) in September.

The destruction of farms, in particular, compounded the country’s food security issues as prices of basic commodities like bread and sugar soared. Political and border disputes have further added to the volatility in a country where nearly 47 percent (https://bit.ly/3cVrWSx) of the population live below the poverty line, and public debt in 2019 stood at €60 billion, more than double the size of the country’s economy.

Opening up to recovery
The twin challenge of a flood during a pandemic may delay Sudan’s plans for growth – but a peace deal, local partnerships, and increased connectivity with the world are helping the war-torn nation get back on its feet.

Adding impetus to these favorable developments is the momentous lifting of sanctions in 2020, when Sudan was finally removed from the United States’ State Sponsors of Terrorism list – opening up access to desperately-needed debt relief and foreign financing.

This has had an immediate positive impact on the country’s investments: foreign direct investments (FDI) grew by US$190.7 million (€157 million) (https://bit.ly/3rSa9Qf) in September 2020, compared to an increase of US$116.3 million (€95.8 million) in the previous quarter. This upward momentum is expected to continue, with FDI predicted to reach US$253.16 million (€208.5 million) (https://bit.ly/3us77nC) this year.

“Aging infrastructure and the lack of investment have slowed development, but the government has been doing more to improve the country’s connectivity with the wider world, especially now with the sanctions lifted,” explains Adel Moustafa, Country Manager, DHL Express (www.DPDHL.com) and DHL Global Forwarding Sudan.

DHL, who has been actively providing delivery, logistic and relief services in the region for decades, and works alongside aid relief agencies to handle and transport relief supplies such medicine, food and water, recently released the latest DHL Global Connectedness Index (GCI), which shows that international flows helped cushion the blow of economic distress between 2017 and 2019. Sudan’s GDP shrank significantly over that period, but imports and other inward flows held up comparatively well. 

The GCI measures the development of trade, capital, information, and people flows at the global, regional, and national levels – and ranked Sudan among the top 10 countries with the largest gains in their connectedness score. Sudan and Uzbekistan showed the highest score increase of +10 from the previous index in 2017.

More recent data highlight positive growth of Sudan’s imports, which was up 11.9 percent year-on-year (https://bit.ly/2OnzbZO) in September 2020. Additionally, trading volumes in Sudan’s stock market have been growing in recent years.

While Sudan’s political, economic and humanitarian status remains fragile, the country’s prospects remain positive, boosted by the International Monetary Fund’s March 5 approval (https://bit.ly/3unfPDB) of the first review of Sudan&#39;s Staff-Monitored Program (SMP). SMP is an informal agreement between country authorities and IMF staff to monitor the implementation of the authorities&#39; economic program.

Also of significance is the February 2019 deal that saw US$300 million set aside for a 10-year plan to develop Port Sudan’s facilities, while a new Chinese-built seaport (https://bit.ly/3cTbDW7) for shipping livestock in Haidob, south of Port Sudan, is nearing completion.

This, along with the new African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) (https://bit.ly/3sVz9aK), bodes well for future trade in the region. “With its strategic location, Sudan also carries the potential of being a leading logistical hub in the region. The country is well-positioned to facilitate the distribution of goods to neighbouring landlocked countries including Chad, Mali, and Central African Republic for instance,” explained Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express Sub Saharan Africa.

Pulling through the pandemic

However, for the country to fulfil its potential, they first need to pull out all stops to contain the pandemic.

In early March, Sudan began inoculating frontline healthcare workers against coronavirus after receiving its first batch of 828,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine a week earlier. This, say health officials, will cover 414,000 frontline health care workers across the country.

In preparation, DHL Express and DHL Global Forwarding Sudan have provided consultation to the local government on the key procedures and frameworks involved in delivering the vaccines. This includes advice on handling techniques, logistical plans, and efficient delivery solutions to support vaccine distribution across the country.

“In Sudan, DHL does more than just deliver; we are in the business of saving lives, and we have established strong relationships across government and all related industry sectors, to ensure smooth and safe delivery of all shipped goods, including medical supplies during the pandemic,” notes Moustafa.  “Having close collaboration with our global logistics network and establishing the right partnerships with our local partners on the ground will play a key role in driving the country forward, especially in dire times like these.” 

Sudan’s strategic location allows for further opportunities for the region to improve its connectedness and act as a major distribution hub for neighboring landlocked regions, adds Heymans.

“Both geographically and culturally, we’re confident that Sudan has what it takes to succeed in its critical transition. As a network business, DHL remains ready to lend all the support required to Sudan to embark on this path of recovery and growth,” adds Heymans.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Deutsche Post DHL.


Media files

From decades of unrest to renewed hope for peace: Sudan’s path to recovery

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Total cases: 22,684 (+202) Recovered: 20,594 (+75) | 90.7% Active cases: 1,779 In critical condition: 5 Tests: 1,181,354 (+3,835) Test positivity rate: 5.3% Vaccinated: 348,926 Deaths: 311 (+0) | 1.4%
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Republic of Rwanda. Media files

Coronavirus – Rwanda: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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The Presidential announcement on Friday 26 March suspending sporting activities in the country has dealt a big blow to rugby and by extension the greater sports fraternity.

While this directive was part of a series of measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 which continues to cause havoc locally and internationally, it has left us in an awkward situation.
The suspension came at a time when Kenyan rugby was picking up after a year of inactivity occasioned by the initial lockdown and ensuing factors critical to getting the Government green light to return to play. This period of inactivity came at a cost. We lost revenues due to event cancellations, most notably the Rugby Africa Barthes U20 Trophy, the National Sevens Circuit and the Safari Sevens.
While the Government was gracious enough to offer a stimulus package for our national team players, there were those players outside the national team’s realm who were disenfranchised by the disruption of sporting activities countrywide.
Think about those men and women who contributed to the game as match officials, medics, service providers, vendors, journalists, photographers and broadcasters &#8211; their livelihoods took a hit and they, alongside their dependents have borne the brunt of the disruption.
We also subjected our employees to pay cuts as part of the mitigation factors brought about by this unique situation.
The Kenya Rugby Union had to take these measures at a time when our national men’s and women squads were preparing to fly the Kenyan flag high in sevens rugby at the Olympic Games. We received a reprieve when the Government allowed our national teams to resume training under a series of guidelines that we religiously adhered to.
We would a few months later, receive the green light to resume local top tier competition behind closed doors and under more guidelines from the authorities. The Kenya Rugby Union has again diligently adhered to these guidelines as well as those issued by the game’s global governing body, World Rugby.
At the time of the league’s suspension on Friday 26 March 2021, we had conducted a total of 1,551 COVID-19 PCR tests, 44 of which returned positive results. This makes for a 2.8 per cent prevalence rate.
We have subjected players and match officials in the Kenya Cup league to regular testing and have taken the necessary steps inclusive of contact tracing and re-testing in incidences where players test positive for COVID-19.  We have gone as far as postponing fixtures in instances that we felt posed a greater health and safety risk. We have been prepared, and remain prepared to run the game during this trying time.
Going beyond the league, the opportunity to effectively prepare our national teams for a series of international competitions most notably the Tokyo Olympic Games, as well as the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cup is being greatly comprised with each passing day. Kenya is also set to host the 2021 Rugby Africa U20 Barthes Trophy and preparations had indeed moved a notch higher with the formation of a Government backed Local Organizing Committee (LOC).
Rugby is a contact sport and the levels of strength and conditioning take time to attain. After the long break, players had just started getting into shape. With another possibly prolonged break, we will lose all the gains and ultimately be uncompetitive in the upcoming international assignments.
Sports federations have worked tirelessly to resume activity under the laid down guidelines. Many young men and women are additionally making a living off sport and have been denied opportunities to engage in meaningful income generating activities. Furthermore, the cessation of sporting activities poses a serious threat to the mental health and overall wellbeing of athletes and other sports practitioners.
It is our humble plea that President Uhuru Kenyatta rescinds his decision to suspend sports activities, rugby included.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kenya Rugby Union (KRU).
Media Contact: Rugby@APO-opa.com

Kenya Rugby Union Statement on Disruption of Sports

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Globally, sport has reached a stage of development that no other human activity can boast of. Its impact on societies and unifying power gives it the responsibility of putting itself at the service of peace

 	To start off, what does international day of sports for development and peace mean to you? 
At the request of the Moroccan NOC, this day was created in 2013 by the United Nations General Assembly. It reflects the importance of sports, which is present in every household with its economic, political, social and above all educational functions.

 	What is Rugby Ready training? Please feel free to use any images and statistics as well. 
The Rugby Ready program is a support and educational training tool, with its objective being to promote enjoyable and fun playing rugby while minimizing the risk of injury.

Player health is the priority at all levels of the game.

Rugby Ready is also a perfect complement to the programs set up by some World Rugby member unions, with Rugby Africa having very satisfactory numbers of participants &#8211; second World Rugby region.

 	You deliver conferences on the theme of Sports and Peace. Please elaborate on the connection between sport and peace? Can you share examples where sport or more particularly rugby has been used to foster peace?  
Globally, sport has reached a stage of development that no other human activity can boast of. Its impact on societies gives it an incomparable mobilization potential. This unifying power gives it the responsibility of putting itself at the service of peace.

For concrete examples, I will cite the following cases:
 	Fist Ping-pong diplomacy initiated in 1971 between China and the USA 	The attribution of the 1988 Olympic Games to China (global symbolism) 	The joint organization of the football world cup in Japan and South Korea (despite the historical disputes and the poisoned relations) 	The (unsuccessful) joint candidacy of Turkey and Greece for the organization of the European Football Championship (UEFA 2008) 
In rugby:
 	The organization of the 3rd Rugby World Cup in South Africa which has contributed to bringing together the entire population of the country. 	The participation of the Libyan National Rugby Team in the Arab 7’S Championship (February 2021) where the team was made up of the 2 “war” regions East and West. 
 	You put a lot of emphasis on the values of rugby. May you please list them and explain why they matter and how they define rugby? 
The values ​​of rugby are solidarity, integrity, respect, passion and discipline. These are ethical and moral benchmarks to which athletes and public opinion must refer; they guide people in their daily lives with a taste for effort and perseverance. It is also a philosophy that transcends all borders in sport, at school, at home and at work. If I had to classify these values, I would put RESPECT first.

 	The conferences are targeting teachers, unions administrators, students. Does your approach and message differ depending on the targeted groups? 
As a former teacher &#8211; the content of the message remains the same, the form differs a little. The ‘speaker’ approach is used with students, players, and administrators. Whilst the ‘moderator’ approach is used with teachers and coaches.

 	What do you expect your audience to take out of these conferences? If there is one key learning point to remember, what would it be? 
I am trying to convey the following message to my audience:
 	Every day, around the world, millions of sports competitions (“conflicts”) are organized and supervised at school, university, sports federations, regional confederations, international federations, Olympic committees, etc. 
These &#8220;conflicts&#8221; are instituted by the rule and its respect; they serve, in filigree, to:
Bringing competitors closer together rather than dividing them
Promote team spirit
Solidarity in difficulty
Establish equal opportunities
Push towards excellence
Celebrate merit
Convert the rugby player into a good citizen of his country or even of the world.
 	 	Please share any other initiatives you have in the pipeline to commemorate such occasions. 
I consider schools and universities to be a breeding ground for the development of rugby and I keep close contact with the universities.

Also, I am trying to set up a continental cooperation with the African University Sports Federation (FASU) which will be relayed at the national level by the various federations affiliated to Rugby Africa. In this sense, I host several conferences, each year, on the occasion of the International Day of Sport.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media Contact: Rugby@APO-opa.com
Media files

Rugby Africa’s North African Regional Development Officer, Mostafa Jelti, Speaks About International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

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Net income increased to USD115 mn despite fallout from COVID-19 pandemic; Balance sheet grew by 7.5% to USD7.89 bn; Corporate Banking and Treasury &#038; Capital Markets portfolios up 6% and 13%, respectively; Improvement in key financial and risk metrics, including highest ever liquidity ratio (349%) and capital adequacy (31%).

The Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP) (www.APICORP.org), a multilateral development financial institution, announces that its Board of Directors recommended to the General Assembly the approval of its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2020. Continuing its record performance, the Corporation posted a 3% year-on-year (y-o-y) rise in net income despite the fallout of the unprecedented COVID-19 global crisis – from USD112 mn in 2019 to USD115 mn in 2020.

The key drivers include a 6% y-o-y growth in APICORP’s Corporate Banking portfolio to reach USD3.9 bn, as well as a 13% y-o-y growth in its Treasury &#038; Capital Markets portfolio, which also netted USD46 mn in capital gains, a 488% increase from the prior year.

Moreover, the Corporation’s balance sheet increased from USD7.34 bn to USD7.89 bn in 2020, a 7.5% y-o-y uptick which is higher than the 5% CAGR recorded over the past five years. Key financial and risk metrics also continued their steady improvement, as the Corporation recorded its highest ever liquidity ratio at 349% and increased its capital adequacy ratio to 31% (+1% y-o-y), as well as reducing its leverage level from 2.5x in June 2020 to 2.23x in December 2020.

Apart from demonstrating the strength and resilience of APICORP’s financial position, the robust financial and risk metrics enabled APICORP to retain its ‘Aa2’ rating with a stable outlook from Moody’s and earned its inaugural ‘AA’ rating with a stable outlook by Fitch – the only regional financial institution in MENA to hold two ‘AA’ ratings.

The year also witnessed a landmark capital increase by which the Corporation increased its authorized capital from USD2.4 bn to USD20 bn, subscribed capital from USD2 bn to USD10 bn, paid-up capital from USD1 bn to USD1.5 bn, and callable capital from USD1 bn to USD8.5 bn.

Commenting on APICORP’s results, Dr. Aabed bin Abdulla Al-Saadoun, Chairman of the Board of Directors said: “The strong 2020 financial results despite the uncertain economic landscape that clouded most of the year illustrates APICORP’s exceptional steadfastness and resilience. The fact that we ended the year with a 3% increase in net income points to the Corporation’s strong and solid fundamentals. As the region, and indeed the world, begins to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are confident that we will continue to ably support the MENA energy sector, including the proactive advancement of the energy transition agenda.”

Dr. Ahmed Ali Attiga, Chief Executive Officer of APICORP, said: “We are immensely proud to close yet another successful financial year for APICORP. The milestones we achieved in 2020 were made more remarkable given the shockwaves of the unprecedented triple crisis stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic that severely impacted the financial results of peer financial institutions and affected all sectors. Complemented by the resolute support from our Member Countries, deep partnership base, and the hard work of all staff members, our positive results underscore the soundness of our long-term investment and funding strategy, as well as our agile and efficient approach to tackle the challenges of 2020.”

“Looking ahead, we will continue to solidify our position as the trusted financial partner to the MENA energy sector. In line with our development mandate, we aim to focus on supporting the growth of the private sector – particularly in the clean and renewable energy space – to accelerate the energy transition and build a more sustainable future for the Arab region,” Dr. Attiga added. 

Business Line Highlights

Corporate Banking APICORP increased its corporate banking assets by 6% y-o-y in 2020 to reach USD3.9 billion, booking 1.6 bn in drawdowns over the year. Notably, 6 of the 11 project finance commitments in 2020 were in green energy or within the category of sustainable utility projects, and all were part of the USD500 mn countercyclical package the Corporation launched in April to help the MENA energy sector mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and oil price volatility. The gross NPL ratio, meanwhile, remained very low at just 0.59%.

Investments Although the 2020 crisis affected the revenues of some investee companies, it also opened opportunities for APICORP to pursue quality investments in high-potential well-run companies alongside like-minded investors seeking to maximize long-term value creation and impact. The year witnessed the Corporation making its first-ever equity stake in a wind energy company, while at the same time progressing on a number of exits from current investments to optimize the balance sheet as well as capitalize on the positive long-term growth prospects of its equity portfolio.

Treasury &#038; Capital Markets By following a more active approach to managing the Corporation’s assets and liabilities of APICORP, Treasury &#038; Capital Markets was able to not only optimize the risk-adjusted returns of the Corporation’s high-quality liquid portfolio (including USD 46 mn in capital gains), but also further bolster its strong funding profile. On the funding front, APICORP increased its medium-term financing by 26% y-o-y while decreasing short-term financing by 12% as a safeguard against prolonged market volatility. Moreover, the year saw the Corporation raising its profile as a debt issuer in the sovereign, supranational and agency (SSA) space through the USD 750 mn benchmark bond issuance in June, which achieved the lowest ever yield and spread in the Corporation’s history, and attracted high-quality SSA investors from across the globe (more than 50% of the order book were from central banks and official institutions. The success of the transaction was further cemented with the USD 250 mn tap in October that brought the total size of the issuance to USD 1 bn.
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP).
Media Contact: Hassan Al-Jundi APICORP Mobile: +966 55 8012942 Email: haljundi@apicorp.org
Zeeshan Masud Weber Shandwick Mobile: +971 55 918 6751 Email: zmasud@webershandwick.com
Daniel Chinoy Weber Shandwick Mobile: +971 50 255 3402 Email: dchinoy@webershandwick.com
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About APICORP: The Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP) is a multilateral development financial institution established in 1975 by an international treaty between the ten Arab oil exporting countries. It aims to support and foster the development of the Arab world’s energy sector and petroleum industries. APICORP makes equity investments and provides project finance, trade finance, advisory and research. Headquartered in Dammam, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, APICORP is rated “Aa2” by Moody’s and “AA” by Fitch, both with a stable outlook.
More information can be found at: www.APICORP.org.
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Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP) Ups Net Income By 3% in 2020

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he Board of Directors of the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) has approved a loan of €145 million to finance reliability and performance upgrades to the country’s rail system under the Egypt National Railways Modernization Project (ENRMP).

The funding will be used to enhance operational safety and to increase network capacity on national rail lines.

Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Egypt’s Minister of International Cooperation said, “Safe, accessible, convenient and green transport systems will be crucial to achieving sustainable development. The improvement and expansion of Egypt’s rail system through the ENRMP allows for active mobility and enables the urban and rural development through an inter-modal linked system. Technology and innovation, and a robust commitment to public transport will all be vital components of building back better.”

Rail transport is central to Egypt’s economy and competitiveness. Rail passenger and freight traffic are expected to increase to 15% and 10% respectively by 2029 as a result of the Bank’s loan and other investments in the project. Currently, 8% of passenger traffic and 6% of freight traffic respectively move by rail. The planned upgrades are expected to benefit low-income Egyptians, about 40% of the population, who rely on trains as an affordable mode of transport.  Increasing train freight is projected to have a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions.    

The Government of Egypt has committed significant investment to upgrade the country’s railway infrastructure through rail renewals, modernization of signaling and the purchase of new rolling stock. Under the ENRMP a state-of-the-art, cost effective train protection system will be installed on 950 km of train line along the busy routes connecting Alexandria in the north to Negh Hammadi in the south, and Port Said in the east.

“The newly approved project will enhance the multimodal transportation environment in Egypt, and the efficient movement of people, services and goods,” said Malinne Blomberg, the Bank’s Deputy Director General for the North Africa region. “This operation is fully aligned with the Bank’s strategy for interventions in Egypt, contributing to sustained and inclusive economic growth, and more specifically, developing infrastructure that supports expansion of the private sector and job creation,” she added. 
 Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Media contact: Fahd Belbachir Senior Communication and External Relations Officer for North Africa African Development Bank f.belbachir@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group: The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.

Egypt: The African Development Bank extends EUR145 million loan to bolster railway safety and reliability

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Technological advances are progressing at an exponential pace in Africa and transforming traditional audit practices. However, while digital transformation heralds a new era of innovation, especially in improving the quality of risk assessment, a critical element of all financial statement audits, significant challenges remain. This was the consensus of business leaders during a recent pan-Africa online event organised by global professional accountancy body ICEAW (the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales) (www.ICAEW.com).

The online event was held on 30 March 2021 and provided insight from a panel of business leaders who shared knowledge and views on the future of the accountancy profession in a world where digital technologies are transforming business models, industry sectors and the workplace.
Discussions focused on how disruptive technologies are evolving in the accounting profession, the ethical implications, and the strategies required for managing the risks associated with the emerging applications of technology. Panellists included:

 	David Matthews, President, ICAEW 	Chemutai Murgor, CFO &#038; Finance Director, East Africa, Standard Chartered Bank, Kenya 	Catherine Musakali, Founder of Dorion Associates &#038; Corporate Governance Consultant, Kenya 	Walter Muwandi, CEO, CCG Systems, South Africa 	Dr Reynolds T Muza, Senior Partner, Harare Ralph Bomment Greenacre &#038; Reynolds 	Ede Dafinone, Deputy Managing Partner, Crowe Dafinone and ICAEW Council Member for Africa 
According to the panellists, the automation of audit processes, such as data analysis, will lead to greater consistency and give more opportunities to identify business risks. This will allow better planning of audit activities, especially during the current global crisis.

The panellists applauded government efforts to support the development of innovation and technology by providing the required digital infrastructure. However, while many African nations are embracing digital transformation, the panellists agreed that the adoption of disruptive technology has had a major impact on the workforce across the continent, and that care should be taken to not make many jobs redundant.

While traditional accounting has ancient roots, the tools and techniques used by the profession have always evolved. According to the speakers at the online event, accountants must be able to adapt and upskill to manage these technological changes, such as the need for increased knowledge of data analytics and cybersecurity, to remain competitive.

Ethics and professional judgement must also play a critical role in the digital age to ensure accountants continue to build public trust in business and uphold the reputation of the profession. Panellists agreed there is an opportunity for codes of ethics to be broadened to recognise the role of the accountancy profession in championing ethical principles when developing and applying technology.
The speakers also highlighted how the rapid growth in technology has automated many compliance elements of accountancy but increased complexity and risk. Such elements involve ensuring that a company&#39;s financial matters are being handled in accordance with federal laws and regulations. They called for the creation and promotion of standards for how technological tools should be developed and implemented to reduce risk and make sure that benefits, such as reducing the effort needed and increasing productivity, are achieved. They also advised that audit teams need to be properly equipped with experts on different software applications and platform technologies to be able to inform clients on the strengths of their security.
David Matthews, ICAEW President, said: “Technology is transforming the accountancy profession. Automation technologies, in particular, will change the role of chartered accountants. As technology’s influence in the working world spreads, accountants will have to diversify their skills, and an increased focus on advisory skills will mean that accountants will often find themselves acting as the broker between technical experts and clients.”

Michael Armstrong, FCA and ICAEW Regional Director for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), said: “In the coming decades, intelligent systems will take over more and more decision-making tasks from humans. While accountants have been using technology for many years to improve productivity and deliver more value to businesses, this is an opportunity to reimagine and radically improve the quality of business and investment decisions.

“To realise this potential, our profession needs to imagine how new technologies can transform our approach to the fundamental business problems we aim to solve. Accountants that stay on top of technology trends, and can adapt to integrate changes, will be best positioned to leverage them for future growth.”

Ede Dafinone, Deputy Managing Partner, Crowe Dafinone, said: “The rate at which technological advancement is accelerating across industries in Africa is astonishing. And the implementation of such technologies presents a unique opportunity for economic development in the continent.

“Accountants have embraced waves of automation over many years to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their work. However, technology has not been able to replace the need for expert knowledge and decision-making. Therefore, we must recognise the strengths and limits of this different form of intelligence, and build an understanding of the best ways for humans and computers to work together.”

The panellists advised audit firms in Africa to invest in digital initiatives, such as AI, blockchain, cybersecurity and developments in data capabilities. Investment in these initiatives will equip accounting professionals with the capability to expand their assurance services to deal with the new technology-driven risks that their clients face and safeguard their digital assets.

The webinar was attended by over 250 professional accountants, ICAEW students and members, as well as members of other professional bodies across Africa including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe (ICAZ), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ghana (ICAG), the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), and the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of ICAEW.
Media Enquiries: Zim Ugbana Mojo PR +971 (0)52 699 9617 Email zim@mojo-me.com
Brenda Sono Eclipse Communications 079 016 7848 brenda@eclipsecomms.com
About ICAEW: Chartered accountants are talented, ethical and committed professionals. There are more than 1.8m chartered accountants and students around the world, and more than 186,500 of them are members and students of ICAEW.
ICAEW promotes inclusivity, diversity and fairness. We attract talented individuals and give them the skills and values they need to build resilient businesses, economies and societies while ensuring our planet’s resources are managed sustainably.
Founded in 1880, we have a long history of serving the public interest, and we continue to work with governments, regulators and business leaders around the world. We are proud to be part of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global network of 750,000 members across 190 countries, which promotes the expertise and skills of chartered accountants on a global basis.
We believe that chartered accountancy can be a force for positive change. By sharing our insight, expertise and understanding, we can help to create strong economies and a sustainable future for all. 
www.ICAEW.com/joinbam  www.CharteredAccountantsWorldwide.com  www.GlobalAccountingAlliance.com

ICAEW: technology transforming traditional audit and enhancing quality of risk assessment in Africa

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135 new cases of COVID-19 in Nigeria;

Kwara-37 Lagos-32 Ondo-23 Nasarawa-13 FCT-9 Kaduna-7 Rivers-6 Osun-3 Delta-2 Edo-2 Borno-1

163,330 confirmed 152,045 discharged 2,058 deaths
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). Media files

Coronavirus – Nigeria: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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As of 5th April 2021, we recorded 79 new cases out of 2,872 tests (3% positivity), 110 recoveries and sadly 2 new deaths (MTSRIP).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI). Media files

Coronavirus – Zambia: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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Minister of Health Lizzie Nkosi announces one new #COVID19 death, taking the total number of COVID-19 deaths to 669. &#8220;May her soul rest in peace.&#8221;

New cases: 2 Total cases: 17 354
Active cases: 65
New recoveries: 2 Total recoveries: 16 618
New death: 1 Total deaths: 669
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Health, Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini.

Coronavirus – Eswatini: COVID-19 update (5 April 2021)

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World-class advice, portfolio reviews and one-on-one mentorship from esteemed industry professionals; unrivalled access to inspirational lectures, talks and speakers, all taking place digitally for the second year in a row.

Canon Europe (www.Canon-Europe.com) is excited to announce the 2021 Canon Student Development Programme, now in its fifth consecutive year. Running from 1st – 4th September 2021, Canon will offer 250 students from across Europe, Middle East and Africa the exclusive opportunity to participate in its bespoke educational programme designed to enhance students’ visual storytelling skills and advance their careers.  
The importance of photography and supporting its rising stars has become more apparent than ever this year, as it has the power to shape the world&#39;s perceptions, tell stories and make history. With applications opening on 1st April 2021, the second digital edition of the Canon Student Development Programme will offer successful participants the chance to have their portfolio reviewed by some of the most influential names in the world of photography to help them on their journey to becoming young professionals.  
Each student will be partnered with a mentor over the summer from whom they will receive one-on-one preparation time, ahead of having their curated portfolios reviewed within a group review session in September. This year, expert coaching will be provided by some of the world’s leading photo professionals, including Canon Ambassadors (https://bit.ly/2Q4rubG) such as visual artist Laura El-Tantawy (https://bit.ly/31MBBEs) and two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Muhammed Muheisen (https://bit.ly/2OpOHVd).
Alongside the portfolio reviews the Programme will also include a series of inspirational lectures, taking place digitally from world-renowned experts including photographers, picture editors and publishers, who will share practical advice as well as their thoughts and perspectives over trends and developments in the industry. 
Since 2017, over 800 students have attended the Programme, resulting in real success stories of talents that have gone on to establish incredible careers. Alumni such as Ksenia Kuleshova (2017) (https://bit.ly/2Q1cawo), who has since gone on to become a successful photojournalist, works regularly for publications including The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal; while Michele Spatari (2018) (https://bit.ly/3wz0kKO) is an award-winning documentary and news photographer for AFP who has captured some of the most significant events in recent history, including the Covid-19 pandemic. Since attending the Programme, both photographers have also gone on to become Canon Ambassadors. 
Ksenia Kuleshova, Programme Alumni and Canon Ambassador said: &#8220;The Canon Student Development Programme is a great way for aspiring photographers to gain invaluable experience, learning from and mixing with professionals in the industry. During my time on the Programme, I learned not only how to better present and promote my work but was also able to use it to reflect on my experience and motivate myself when the week ended.” 
Amine Djouahra, Sales and Marketing Director at Canon Central and North Africa said: “As we approach our fifth year of the Canon Student Development Programme, we’re excited to welcome the next generation of creative storytellers onboard. Part of Future Focus, Canon’s dedicated programme for turning young talent into professionals, we look forward to championing future photographers by giving them the tools, knowledge and opportunity to advance their careers and build on their skills.” 
To apply to be a part of the 2021 Canon Student Development Programme or view the entry criteria, please visit: https://bit.ly/39LFGgm
 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 &#8211; PR Agency  Rania El Rafie  e. Rania.elrafie@apo-opa.com
About Canon Central and North Africa: Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2015 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region &#8211; 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 – ‘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: www.Canon-CNA.com
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Canon commits to the Next Generation of Creative Storytellers with its Student Development Programme

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