Researchers at Kaspersky (www.Kaspersky.co.za) keep a close eye on Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) and are observing 9 active threat actors that currently target organisations in Africa. Whilst these threat actors target a wide range of entities, Kaspersky researchers identified Government, Energy and Telecommunications as the top targets in Africa.

APT groups are complex threat actors that deploy targeted attacks, active for years on end. These groups are often motivated by espionage, monetary gain, or in some cases, hacktivism. According to Kaspersky intelligence, some of the most prominent groups in the region are MuddyWater (https://apo-opa.co/3xGi4JA), FruityArmor (https://apo-opa.co/4bGQslb) Sidewinder (https://apo-opa.co/3zIaJcQ). Kaspersky also works with legal authorities, providing them with the intelligence needed to track cybercriminals behind these attacks.

These threat actors use a wide range of techniques to infiltrate their victims in the region. Social engineering is a common tactic used on social media or email, such as posting a fake job advert targeting software developers. APT groups also deploy sophisticated modular malwares like DeadGlyph and StealerBot, as well as weaponising legitimate, remote applications, online services and cloud platforms – a technique used by MuddyWater APT group to penetrate into the targeted site. Furthermore, these groups can target third party providers and infiltrate their victims through supply-chain. 

“The current geopolitical climate is a hotbed for APT activity, therefore, investigating these attacks and gaining intelligence on their movement is vital for security teams and corporations in Africa. Our research allows businesses and government entities to determine the significance of the threat posed, understand the attackers’ next move and accordingly be able to take the appropriate security steps to protect themselves,” said Amin Hasbini, Head of Global Research and Analysis team for Middle East, Turkiye and Africa at Kaspersky.

With every APT investigation, Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) publish comprehensive reports, available on Kaspersky’s Threat Intelligence Portal (https://apo-opa.co/3XTZYyc). The reports offer crucial APT detection and forensic capabilities, enabling effective mitigation and remediation.

In order to avoid falling victim to a targeted attack by APT groups, Kaspersky researchers also recommend implementing the following measures:

Limit access of third parties and require continuous inspection of access within their supply chain.
For endpoint level detection, investigation, and timely remediation of incidents, implement EDR solutions such as Kaspersky Next (https://apo-opa.co/4cyntl5).
In addition to adopting essential endpoint protection, implement a corporate-grade security solution that detects advanced threats on the network level at an early stage, such as Kaspersky Anti Targeted Attack Platform (https://apo-opa.co/3S2AbjQ).
Energy sector and other critical infrastructures should use security solutions for operation technology endpoints and networks, such as Kaspersky Industrial CyberSecurity (https://apo-opa.co/3RUl4sn), to ensure comprehensive protection for all systems.
Upskill your cybersecurity team to tackle the latest threats with Kaspersky online training (https://apo-opa.co/3xSYKsz), developed by GReAT experts.
Educate employees depending on their IT knowledge with cybersecurity courses such as those available within Kaspersky Security Awareness Platform (https://apo-opa.co/3zAeLnF).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kaspersky.

For further information please contact:
Nicole Allman
https://INKandCO.co.za
nicole@inkandco.co.za

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About Kaspersky:
Kaspersky is a global cybersecurity and digital privacy company founded in 1997. With over a billion devices protected to date from emerging cyberthreats and targeted attacks, Kaspersky’s deep threat intelligence and security expertise is constantly transforming into innovative solutions and services to protect businesses, critical infrastructure, governments and consumers around the globe. The company’s comprehensive security portfolio includes leading endpoint protection, specialized security products and services, as well as Cyber Immune solutions to fight sophisticated and evolving digital threats. We help over 220,000 corporate clients protect what matters most to them. Learn more at www.Kaspersky.co.za.

Both the Republic of Congo (ROC) and its regional neighbor Angola have set ambitious natural gas objectives. By 2025, the ROC aims to produce 2.4 million tons of LNG, while Angola is set to have natural gas account for 25% of its energy matrix. The countries’ respective national oil companies (NOC) – Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC) and Sonangol – are driving projects forward and engaging with IOCs and regional players to bolster exploration, feedstock and domestic gas consumption. 

SNPC Managing Director Maixent Raoul Ominga will lead a Congolese delegation at the Angola Oil&Gas (AOG) 2024 conference in Luanda, scheduled for October 2-3. The conference will facilitate cross-border collaboration as Angolan and Congolese oil and gas sectors experience sizable growth. Collaboration between the two major hydrocarbon players will serve as a driving force behind regional energy security, affirming SNPC’s commitment to strengthening ties with Angola.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; national oil company Sonangol; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the African Energy Chamber; and the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute, the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

The ROC achieved a milestone in March 2024 with its first LNG cargo delivery to Italy from the Congo LNG project’s Tango FLNG facility, featuring a 1-billion-cubic-meter-per-annum (BCMA) liquefaction capacity. A second FLNG vessel with a 3.5-BCMA capacity is set to start production in 2025. Congo LNG serves as a model for fast-tracked LNG production, with the project coming online just 12 months after FID was announced. The project is supported by a Sales and Purchase Agreement signed between SNPC, energy major Eni and multinational energy corporation Lukoil in September 2023. With the project, the ROC is set to produce an initial 600,000 tons of LNG per annum and up to 2.4 million tons by 2025.

Angola itself celebrated its 400th LNG cargo delivery in 2023, while reaching FID on its first non-associated gas development – the New Gas Consortium’s Quiluma and Maboqueiro gas project – in 2022. The project will supply feedstock gas to the country’s Angola LNG facility, which currently monetizes gas from associated projects across the country. As regional LNG exporters, both Congo LNG and Angola LNG are set to play a dominant role in supporting economic growth with the development of new gas-focused concessions across both countries.

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Beyond Congo LNG, SNPC has been streamlining gas for domestic industrial use through projects such as Banga Kayo. Developed in partnership with Chinese energy company Wing Wah, Banga Kayo – a conventional oilfield on the cusp of reaching peak production of 50,000 barrels per day (BPD) – features a phased expansion plan to monetize previously-flared gas resources. Over several phases, the project will progressively increase gas valorization capacity to produce LNG, LPG, butane and propane for the domestic market. Three trains will be developed – the first of which will have a capacity of one million cubic meters per day (MCMD) – while the second and third will each have a capacity of two MCMD. The second and third trains will come online by March 2025 and December 2025, respectively.

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SNPC is also committed to leveraging undeveloped oil resources to stimulate economic growth. The ROC has set a target to increase production to 500,000 BPD, with investment in producing fields and the development of available blocks driving additional output. Crude oil production for April 2024 measured 259,000 BPD and ongoing exploration efforts aim to bolster output through new discoveries. In partnership with independent oil producer Perenco, SNPC completed offshore 3D seismic surveys at the Tchibouela II, Tchendo II, Marine XXVIII and Emeraude permits in November 2023, with data from the surveys set to identify future drilling targets.

Similarly, Angola plans to increase its oil production to 1.1 million BPD until 2027 and is inviting investment in exploration to achieve this goal. The country concluded a 12-block oil tender in January 2024 and is preparing to launch a 10-block tender in 2025, offering blocks across the Kwanza and Benguela basins. As such, collaboration between Angola and the ROC would support corresponding production goals, with Ominga’s participation at the AOG 2024 conference reflecting a shared commitment to hydrocarbon development. During the conference, Ominga is expected to discuss opportunities for joint cooperation in the sector, while engaging with a suite of Angolan industry stakeholders and energy leaders.

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

By Malinne Blomberg

These are exciting times in Mauritania. This nation connecting West and  North Africa is transforming its economy through mining, green hydrogen, and natural gas. During the campaign for presidential elections, held on June 29, President Ould Ghazouani announced he would scale up the mining industry if re-elected.

Here is the African Development Bank’s take on the sector and what it means for the Mauritanian economy.

A Promising Start

Mauritania is a treasure trove of untapped mineral wealth. With several billion tons of iron ore deposits, the country is the second-largest producer of this important mineral in Africa. In 2022 alone, Mauritania produced 13 million tons of iron ore, thanks to proactive reforms and attractive mining policies, according to data from the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative.

And guess what? Mining sources say they are well underway to double this by 2030!

How central is mining to Mauritania’s economy?

According to the African Development Bank’s African Economic Outlook 2024 (http://apo-opa.co/3LiaJmy), Mauritania’s economic future looks bright, with real GDP growth projected at 4.2 percent in 2024 and 5.5 percent in 2025 – which is above the forecasts for both African and global growth.

That above average growth is largely thanks to the activities of the mining sector.

Last year—2023—saw the sector generate many headlines.

Gold mining company Tasiast Mauritanie Limited S.A. production soared to 620.8 thousand ounces, and SNIM (Société Nationale Industrielle et Minière de Mauritanie) (http://apo-opa.co/3Lh7r2Q) hit a new record output level of 14.01 million tons of iron ore.

Those figures highlight how the extractive industries are not just pillars of the national economy: they are its most dynamic engines of growth.

Overall, the mining sector’s contribution to Mauritania’s GDP shot up from 18 percent in 2021 to 24 percent in 2022. This growth was driven by increased extraction of metal ores, particularly gold. The sector also filled the national budget coffers, contributing around 30percent of revenues in 2022. SNIM led the way, followed by Tasiast Mauritanie Limited S.A. and Mauritanian Copper Mines.

Sector developments and future plans

Globally, the steel production landscape is evolving, with a shift towards less carbon-intensive and more efficient processes. This means higher demand for high-quality ores and DRI pellets, which require less energy and produce less waste. Mauritania, particularly SNIM, is poised to capitalize on this trend.

Over the next decade, Mauritania plans to double its iron ore production capacity to more than  45 million tons per annum. This ambitious goal involves significant investments in infrastructure and logistics. The focus is on producing high-grade iron ore and developing iron ore pellets, aligning with the global shift towards cleaner steelmaking processes.

Medium to longer terms plans also include moving up the value chain to the production of green steel, initially steel pellets. However, electricity is the backbone of these industrial ambitions, and in parallel, Mauritania is also eyeing the green hydrogen market, aiming to become a hub for this clean energy source. The synergy between mining, green hydrogen, and gas field development will require substantial infrastructure, benefiting not just the mining sector but the broader economy.

The African Development Bank’s role

The African Development Bank has been a key partner in Mauritania’s journey. The Bank has invested heavily in SNIM’s infrastructure, including a $46.9 million loan to widen the access channel to the mineral port of Nouadhibou. This has boosted iron exports and contributed to state revenues. The Bank is also contributing to addressing the energy challenge through initiatives like the Desert-to-Power project, promoting solar energy and improving access to electricity. The Bank’s financial support goes hand in hand with a strong commitment to the country’s compliance with environmental and social standards. This ensures that the benefits of mining are shared widely and sustainably.

Green hydrogen is another exciting frontier. The Bank is providing technical assistance to develop hydrogen plans and attract private sector investments. This aligns perfectly with Mauritania’s goal to produce green steel, adding value to its mining sector.

On a visit to the country in 2022 (http://apo-opa.co/3xP4fs8), the President of the Bank, Dr Akinwumi Adesina reviewed with national leadership the overall cooperation between the two parties.

They focused on strengthening the integration of agricultural value chains, supporting young entrepreneurs, strengthening public financial management, ensuring water security in the face of climate change in addition to enhancing the production and processing capacities of iron ore to increase the added value of exportable goods, and.

Green Hydrogen: The game changer

Speaking of green hydrogen, Mauritania is making bold moves. The Aman project, a $40 billion venture, aims to produce 1.7 million tons of green hydrogen and 10 million tons of green ammonia annually. This project alone could boost Mauritania’s GDP by 50-60% by 2035.

The Nour project, another green hydrogen initiative, has the potential to be one of the largest globally by 2030. Meanwhile, SNIM and ArcelorMittal are exploring the joint production of green steel, which would position Mauritania as a leader in sustainable steel production.

Beyond mining : Other extractive projects

Mauritania’s natural gas reserves are also impressive. The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim gas project is set to start production by the end of 2024, with the Banda BirAllah gas field following close behind. Uranium mining is also on the horizon, with the Tiris project expected to kick off in 2026.

Navigating risks and challenges

Transparency is key to Mauritania’s success. SNIM’s involvement in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative demonstrates that the benefits of mining are shared equitably. The African Development Bank Group supports Mauritania in addressing development challenges, from environmental compliance to strengthening human capital and skills development.

Security in the volatile Sahel region is crucial for sustained growth. Mauritania has managed to remain stable, an essential factor for attracting investment and fostering inclusive growth.

With great power comes great responsibility. The heavy reliance on mining exports makes the economy vulnerable to global price fluctuations, highlighting the need to also diversify the economy. The benefits of the scaled-up mining sector will need to be ploughed back into the national economy, into social sectors and enabling infrastructure, and that will be the topic of another blog.

Conclusion: A bright future ahead

With its rich natural resources and strategic investments, Mauritania is poised to leap forward. With good policies and governance, Mauritania can achieve a true transformation, harnessing its natural wealth to build a prosperous and sustainable future.

About the author

Ms Malinne Blomberg is the African Development Bank Group’s Deputy Director General for North Africa and Country Manager for Tunisia, in addition to her current roles as Country Manager for Libya and Mauritania.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

About the African Development Bank Group: 
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) 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 44 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.

For more information: www.AfDB.org

To celebrate its 40th birthday, Protea Hotels by Marriott announced the opening of its first property in Angola while further strengthening its portfolio in South Africa with a new property in Pretoria. The newest additions – Protea by Marriott Luanda and Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield – will offer business and leisure travellers the chance to experience the vibrant local cultures and warm hospitality, along with exceptional accommodation, modern amenities and world-class service.

Protea Hotels by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s distinguished portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, has grown significantly since its founding in July 1984. Starting with just four hotels in South Africa, the brand now boasts over 60 properties throughout South Africa and eight other African countries, including Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and now Angola. This extensive footprint across primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations makes Protea Hotels by Marriott a popular choice for travellers exploring Africa.

Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President of Premium&Select Brands, Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Marriott International, said, “This month we celebrate four decades of exceptional service and genuine African hospitality. What better way to commemorate this milestone than by further strengthening Protea Hotels’ legacy with our first hotel in Angola and the ongoing expansion of the brand in South Africa. Both properties will combine contemporary comfort with a deep appreciation for local culture and heritage, offering guests a unique and enriching stay.”

Protea by Marriott Luanda

Protea Hotels by Marriott makes its debut in Angola with the opening of Protea by Marriott Luanda. Situated between the city centre of Luanda and Talatona, the new hotel offers proximity to a wide range of business, sports and private event destinations, as well as leisure retreats near the sea. The hotel interior creates a comfortable ambience across its public space and 84 guestrooms and suites, using contemporary furniture in African-styled terracotta colour and furnishings made with locally sourced materials. Guests can also admire the paintings by Guilherme Mampuya, a renowned Angolan artist based in Luanda. Culinary offerings include Múcua, an all-day restaurant serving up a modern fusion of Portuguese and Angolan cuisines, and a rooftop bar where guests can unwind with drinks and light bites against panoramic views of the surrounding area. Other facilities include a fully equipped gym and an outdoor pool with a waterfall.

Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield

Protea by Marriott Pretoria Hatfield is strategically located in Hatfield, one of the most sought-after areas in Pretoria, providing business and leisure travellers with easy access to diplomatic, government and corporate offices as well as shopping centres, entertainment destinations and sporting facilities. The hotel features 203 contemporary guestrooms designed for comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a memorable dining experience at The African Restaurant and Bar, which dishes up a fusion of global and African cuisines. A cosy 30-seater bar provides a relaxing space to unwind, while five state-of-the-art conference venues cater to both large-scale and intimate gatherings.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..

About Protea Hotels by Marriott:
Protea Hotels by Marriott® is the leading hospitality brand in Africa and it is one of the most widely recognized brands on the continent with over 60 hotels across nine countries including South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, Tanzania, Uganda, Malawi and Angola.  Protea Hotels by Marriott® is ideal for both business and leisure travellers by offering properties in primary and secondary business centres and desirable leisure destinations. Each hotel offers modern facilities, proactive and friendly service and consistent amenities such as full-service restaurants, meeting spaces, complimentary Wi-Fi, and well-appointed rooms, ensuring global standards for a high quality, relaxed and successful stay.

About Marriott Bonvoy®:
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit http://apo-opa.co/3LgyVpn. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.