Espresso week 6/2024
New President of the Republic of Namibia
Following the sudden passing of the late Dr Hage G. Geingob, former President of the Republic of Namibia, on Sunday, 4 February 2024, in terms of Article 29 (4)(a) read together with Article 34 (I) of the Namibian Constitution, H.E. Dr. Nangolo Mbumba was sworn in on Sunday, 4 February 2024, as the President of the Republic of Namibia.
On the same occasion, H.E. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was appointed and sworn in as Vice President of the Republic of Namibia.
Eswatini Railway Link Project Progress
A recent post by TEAM Engineering SpA, notes that The Eswatini Government and TEAM Engineering SpA, have recently signed a contract to conduct the economic and financial analysis of the Eswatini Railway Link Project.
There post goes on to say: “In July 2021, TEAM Engineering SpA presented the Detail Design for the Sidvokodvo-Phuzumoya Railway Section in Eswatini Railways, marking a major step forward in the Eswatini Rail Link Programme, a joint strategic initiative between Transnet SOC Ltd and Eswatini Railways.
“The Economic and Financial Analysis of the Sidvokodvo-Phuzumoya Railway Link is an additional activity that will complement the previous assignment and confirms the confidence in TEAM Engineering SpA as a service provider for the technical and economic feasibility of this Project, which will promote regional integration and enhance the overall transport of goods. An extremely important change for the region.
Special recognition goes to the African Development Bank Group for their vital role in funding this transformative project.”
We have asked Eswatini Railways for comment.
Eritrea And Italy Look To Forge Stronger Ties With Focus On Infrastructure And Development Initiatives
Eritrea President Isaias Afwerki and his delegation, as part of their series of meetings with Italian officials and institutions held between 31 January and 1 February, held talks with several Italian officials. President Isaias highlighted Eritrea’s commitment to enhancing its transportation infrastructure, water management, railways, irrigation farming, and energy sectors. He provided detailed updates on the advancements made in water conservation and management. The Italian officials expressed significant interest in Eritrea’s development and assured that they would encourage Italian businesses to explore opportunities.
Algeria’s Expansion Of The Port Of Annaba
The Council of Ministers in Algeria recently approved a direct contract for the expansion of the Port of Annaba, which includes the development of a new ore quay and the construction of an associated railway line. This project, endorsed by the President, is scheduled to begin with the first construction operation of an ore quay connected to the railway line by the end of February.
Nigeria: Change In Permanent Secretary Of Federal Ministry Of Transportation
On 29 January 2024, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the long-standing Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Marine and Blue Economy handed over the role to Oloruntola Olufemi.
The new Permanent Secretary, Mr. Oloruntola, has pledged that the tempo of activities to support the structure of the two ministries which is still undergoing approval at the Service Policy and Strategy Office (SPSO) in the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation will not decrease.