Markets mea MEA Markets- Q2 2025 Featuring: Allot (Nigeria) Limited: Five Decades of Technical Consulting Mastery
News As 2025 continues to unfold, we are pleased to take another moment to recognise and applaud this innovative region’s development, success, and contribution to the corporate landscape around the world. Featuring Allott (Nigeria) Limited’s monumental achievements as it celebrates its 50th year anniversary, we are proud to reveal this informative issue dedicated to sharing news, insights, and success stories. We wish you all a prosperous few months ahead and we look forward to welcoming you back again for our Q3 issue. Welcome to the Q2 2025 issue of MEA Markets magazine. As always, we are dedicated to providing our readers with all the latest news and features from across the Middle East and Africa. AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
News Contents 4. News - UpEnergy issues Africa’s firstever electric cooking carbon credits under Gold Standard’s new metered methodology - GolfNorth and Sumou Global Investment Partner to Build Golf and Lifestyle Destinations in Saudi Arabia and across The Middle East and North Africa 6. Allot (Nigeria) Limited: Five Decades of Technical Consulting Mastery 7. Why the Middle East Is Leading Europe on Plastic Waste 8. South Africa: Blockchain and Smart Contracts to Transform Agriculture 10. The Consequences of Overtourism: A Case Study on Bearded Heron Safaris’ Efforts in Responsible Tourism 10. 8.
News UpEnergy issues Africa’s firstever electric cooking carbon credits under Gold Standard’s new metered methodology In a major shift for carbon finance, 100% of the electric cookstoves deployed through UpEnergy’s Beyond Biomass program, which are fully aligned with Gold Standard’s new methodology, now have the ability to track usage in real time, providing an unprecedented level of accuracy for clean cooking projects. UpEnergy, a social enterprise dedicated to channeling climate finance to fight energy poverty through decarbonization projects, announced the issuance of the first-ever electric cooking carbon credits in Africa using Gold Standard’s new Methodology for Metered & Measured Energy Cooking Devices as part of its Beyond Biomass program. This approach quantifies greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions through real-time measurement of energy consumption, providing an unprecedented level of accuracy and transparency. UpEnergy’s first issuances under this methodology will take place in Tanzania and Uganda, with Ghana and Zambia planned for future expansion. The electric pressure cookers under this metered methodology are designed specifically for African homes, featuring a bespoke interface tailored to local dishes and providing families with economic and health benefits by reducing indoor air pollution associated with traditional cooking methods. By equipping these cookers with integrated sensors for continuous monitoring, the program ensures precise tracking of real-time usage, setting a new standard for emissions verification in clean cooking projects. The Beyond Biomass program, certified by Gold Standard (GS12082 in Tanzania and GS11579 in Uganda), is projected to distribute 250,000 metered clean cookstoves by 2028, with 10,000 units already deployed. The initiative is expected to generate a supply of Verified Emission Reduction (VER) credits from Tanzania and Uganda over the next decade, improving the lives of more than 1 million people. Beyond emissions reductions, UpEnergy’s program delivers tangible household benefits. Cooking time decreases by up to 37 minutes per day, returning over 9 days’ worth of time annually to users, predominantly women, who typically bear the burden of cooking. Households in Tanzania and Uganda also save an estimated $0.26 and $0.51 per day, respectively, by switching away from charcoal. Additionally, the program has created over 180 local direct and indirect jobs, contributing to economic development in these communities. “At UpEnergy, quality and transparency are the cornerstones of our mission, reflected in everything we do — from developing the right technology to distribution, user engagement, and continuous monitoring,” said Mitch Sauers, CEO of UpEnergy. “By investing heavily in digital monitoring, we continue to uphold and elevate the highest standards of carbon credit integrity that the market demands.” The latest electric cookers are equipped with integrated sensors that track real-time consumption data, storing usage information for up to 13 months. This allows for precise comparisons with baseline stoves and fuels while capturing behavioral data on cooking modes, dish types, and durations. In addition, UpEnergy is investing in technology to measure indoor air quality, specifically fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide concentrations, enabling a deeper understanding of health impacts and reinforcing data-driven approaches to cleaner cooking solutions. Today’s news is another significant step forward after UpEnergy’s 2024 announcement that it had issued the world’s first-ever carbon credits linked to emissions savings from the use of electric clean cooking devices. The emissions reductions were created in a new UpEnergy-led project aimed at replacing traditional, biomass burning stoves with electric stoves created by climate tech startup PowerUP. The credits, verified by Gold Standard, support households in Africa transitioning from biomass-burning stoves to cleaner, zero-emissions electric cooking, reducing indoor air pollution and improving health outcomes for those with access to electricity. “Our commitment to integrity extends beyond electric cooking to our fuel-efficient cookstoves, where we are advancing temperature sensors for precise usage data collection. Through all of this, our goal remains the same: to drive decarbonization in the Global South while supporting a just energy transition — ensuring our projects not only deliver measurable climate benefits but also create meaningful improvements for the communities we serve,” said Sauers. For more information, visit www.upenergygroup.com
News GolfNorth and Sumou Global Investment Partner to Build Golf and Lifestyle Destinations in Saudi Arabia and across The Middle East and North Africa Project aim is to shape the future of travel and leisure using partners’ deep expertise in development, golf management and technology GolfNorth, Canada’s leading golf course and technology company, is partnering with Sumou Global Investment, Saudi Arabia’s premier real estate developer & investor, to develop a series of luxury golf communities and resort destinations across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Middle East and North Africa. The joint venture aims to meet the Saudi government’s ambitious Vision 2030 tourism and ecological and environmental goals by sustainably transforming the Kingdom’s landscape, creating new investments, luxury real estate, five-star hospitality, championship golf and innovative technologies for a new global standard in lifestyle homes and destinations. Each destination developed by the two partners will feature high-end developments: 1. Luxury Villas and Residences set in stunning natural landscapes; 2. Championship Golf Courses designed by top international architects; 3. World-Class Hotels, Wellness Retreats, and Lifestyle Amenities, designed for both local residents and international travelers. The partnership brings together the Middle East’s leading real-estate investor with a development exceeding 60 million square meter of land and history of developing visionary projects including Dhahiat Murouj Jeddah, Dhahiat Sumou Makkah and Sumou Towers on Jeddah Water Front and Canada’s GolfNorth, the largest multi-course operator in Canada, featuring a full suite of technologies and services for golf course operations and management that currently supports 500 golf courses. “GolfNorth’s expertise, proprietary technology and infrastructure are a perfect fit for Sumou’s ambitious plans to build iconic golf courses, communities and destinations,” said Jim Balsillie, Chair and owner of GolfNorth. “This is a unique opportunity to take Canadian brand, technology and management skills globally,” he added. GolfNorth will take the lead in designing, operating, and maintaining all golf courses. In addition to its innovative technology services, the Canadian company will ensure tournament-grade course maintenance and elite playing conditions with sustainable practices including water conservation and ecological balance. Further, they will offer golf academies, member programs, and tournament and league hosting. “Today’s announcement is a result of our vision to redefine luxury living on a global stage.” said Abdulrahman Ayedh AlQahtani, CEO of Sumou Global Investment. “In line with Vision 2030, our partnership aims to position the Kingdom as a global hub for lifestyle, tourism and real estate innovation.” Lead projects in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar are set to break ground in 2025, with phased openings beginning in 2027. Additional sites across Saudi Arabia and internationally are under consideration, aligning with the growing global demand for integrated lifestyle destinations. GolfNorth will continue its active growth plan for properties in Canada. Founded in 1994, the company is now the national leader in course management technologies with over 500 courses using its proprietary suite. As the largest multi-course operator in Canada, GolfNorth currently operates 43 golf properties, from British Columbia to Nova Scotia, and has 5 active real-estate developments in Canada.
MEA | Q2 2025 6 Five Decades of Technical Consulting Mastery 50 years is a huge milestone for any business to reach. It highlights that a company is in an elite class, one where every member is the bestof-the-best in their respective field and capable of going above and beyond to serve their clients and wider society equally. Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year is Allott (Nigeria) Limited, a renowned technical consulting practice specialising in engineering and construction supervision as well as environmental services. Below, we take a deep dive into the company to explore a half-century of excellence. nitially established back in 1975, Allott (Nigeria) Limited served as the regional office of Allott and Lomax, a UK consulting engineer that dominated the market before merging with Babtie at the dawn of the millennium. What started out as merely a regional branch is today an independent company in its own right, having delivered more than 400 projects to date for clients in both the public and private sectors of Nigeria. Knowledgeable and experienced, this company delivers streamlined, cost-effective technical consulting solutions. Offering its services in the realms of marine engineering, highway and railway engineering, environmental studies, and technical research studies, Allott (Nigeria) Limited is renowned for an ability to deliver professional technical consulting at every turn. Be it feasibility studies for marine-based engineering projects or environmental impact assessments, everything the company does is executed to the highest standards, ensuring projects are successful and that the growing demand for services of this nature is met throughout Nigeria. The company is overseen by a dedicated team of owner-principals, who manage its daily operations alongside a team of equally talented office-based specialists. Each of the directors at the helm has a deep understanding of the area they specialise in, leading to a full-service approach whereby both company and the client are supported across every stage of a project. A further example of the business’ unique strengths can be found in its collaboration-first ethos, with this guaranteeing impeccable results right across the board. During its storied history so far, Allott (Nigeria) Limited has played an instrumental role in a host of exciting projects throughout its home country, with the impact of many of these being felt to this day. For example, in the marine engineering arena, the company afforded the likes of its project management and design/construction supervision prowess to the Atlas Cement Terminal at Onne Port Harcourt. Carrying out an environmental impact assessment and even supervising dredging and jetty construction, this project – which is this year celebrating its 25th anniversary – saw the team’s full talents on display. Similarly, when it comes to highway and railway projects, Allott (Nigeria) Limited has more than made its presence felt, carrying out numerous jobs for the public sector as well as some assisted by the World Bank. From the Nigerian National Railway rehabilitation project – where the company played a sub-contractor role for Roughton International UK and performed detailed condition assessments of the entire railway network – to the Benue State and Ondo State World Bank infrastructure development projects, the wealth of expertise the company possesses makes it a go-to provider for these services. Moreover, Allott (Nigeria) Limited’s environmental-based services have taken it far and wide, with the team being relied upon for environmental impact assessments, which are an essential part of the environmental management plans required for projects to be approved. Completing these assessments in the likes of ports , highways & railway projects in Nigeria and beyond . Including the transnational Kano - Maradi Railway project from Nigeria to Niger Republic and the Impact Mitigation Monitoring of the Lekki Deep Sea Port in Lagos and beyond, the team have also executed many environmental audits and impact mitigation monitoring services, as well as compliance monitoring studies for ports and terminals. Finally, the technical research studies element of the business is grounded in an enviable track record of delivering public private partnership (PPP) projects across the transaction advisory services space. These include playing an instrumental part in remodelling and developing nine railway stations throughout Nigeria, as well undertaking traffic surveys on the road to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, the Katsina Ala Bridge in Buruku, and the Guto-Bagana Bridge, and recently the Second River Niger Bridge which was completed in 2022, all to offer just a snapshot of its work in this field. Having also incorporated the Allott Free Zone Enterprise in 2017, with this entity specialising in delivering top-quality technical consultancy services to a number of local and international organisations working both onshore and offshore within the country’s free trade zones, this is a company that is clearly continuing to excel in this space. The above projects represent just some of the ways Allott (Nigeria) Limited has been setting the standard for 50 years, making it more than worthy of a feature in this issue. Contact: Attahiru Usman Company: Allott (Nigeria) Limited Web Address: https://www.allottnigeria.com/index.html I Late Ted Bielinski & Attahiru Usman , Onne Portharcourt , Nigeria .
MEA | Q2 2025 7 Hampered by NGOs and bureaucratic and anti-competitive interests, Europe must look to examples in the Middle East for effective sustainability policy. Europe is stagnating when it comes to plastic environmental policies. Rather than encouraging sustainable technologies, the EU is muddled about new technologies – continuing to live in the past with environmentally-damaging old-fashioned plastic. It is by now obvious that their policies of “reduce, re-use, recycle” are inadequate. By contrast, the Middle East has encouraged sustainable technologies by making oxobiodegradable plastic compulsory for a wide range of consumer products, after carrying out extensive due-diligence. In Yemen d2w is specifically mandated. Europe is behind, and failing on a catastrophic level. Michael Laurier, CEO of environmental technology leaders Symphony Environmental, argues that Europe is being hampered by NGOs and bureaucrats and anticompetitive lobbyists who are putting special interests ahead of environmental needs. “In the European Parliament in December 2022, the police found suitcases stuffed with banknotes, and then in February this year we heard that that the EU Commission had been paying NGOs to lobby for the policies of former Commissioner Frans Timmermans; now we hear that in March this year the authorities raided more than 20 addresses and sealed two offices in the European Parliament as part of a spiralling bribery probe into lobbying activities. At the same time the EU has the nerve to lecture the Middle East on its systems of government.” The Middle East, by contrast, is thriving. “Lobbyists for competing commercial interests persuaded the members of the European Parliament’s Environment Committee in 2018 to pass legislation against what they called ‘oxo-degradable’ plastic without a proposal from the EU Commission, without any impact assessment or socio-economic analysis, and without any dossier from their own scientific experts, ECHA.” “People have been confused into thinking that this legislation applies to oxo-biodegradable plastic (which it does not) and this has delayed the adoption of the technology in the EU, resulting in thousands of tonnes of ordinary plastic escaping into the European continent and its coastal waters, where it will lie or float around for decades. “By contrast, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Bahrain have been implementing a broad initiative to combat plastic pollution for years, phasing out conventional plastics and mandating more eco-friendly alternatives. Their government-appointed experts studied d2w technology, to ensure that it causes the plastic to biodegrade without any human intervention in conditions typically found in the open environment, leaving no microplastics or harmful residues.” Laurier concludes: “Governments worldwide are using and evaluating oxo-biodegradable technology, but the EU remains stuck in the past. Plastic policy reform is needed from their recently-elected Parliament. Why the Middle East Is Leading Europe on Plastic Waste
MEA | Q2 2025 The farmers can then capture that information in a smart contract to effectively tokenise the carbon credits under their management. Blockchain technology is transforming transactions by making them faster, more costeffective, and secure, with improved transparency and traceability. Its growing adoption spans sectors from cryptocurrency to supply chain management. In the agricultural finance space, Nedbank’s Cobus de Bruyn and Adele Jones explain how blockchain and smart contracts are unlocking new opportunities. “Very simply, blockchain technology creates a network with memory. Everybody in the network has a unique address and, from an audit trail perspective, all interactions on the network are covered automatically with the latest innovations in cryptography,” says Jones. “There are 2 types of configurations of these networks: one where the network is a public blockchain that anyone can join, for example, the Bitcoin network. The other is a permissioned blockchain, where the network is locked down for specific participants. Once the network has been established, every participant in the network has a unique address and can implement a vast and versatile array of transactions.” Jones adds that smart contracts are code that can execute on the network ecosystem and automate interactions between participants in the network. “By codifying agreements and improving the traceability of data on the network, trust is increased, as well as security and transparency among member organisations.” How does this technology add value to the agricultural sector? Agriculture is an early adopter of technology, which is one of the drivers behind its success. In agriculture, there are many processes and procedures to follow, such as managing finances, accounting and production processes, imports and exports, and interacting with stakeholders – including your bank and suppliers. “Smart contracts are self-executing digital agreements; they automatically execute when predetermined conditions are met, streamlining financial transactions by automating processes that would traditionally require human intervention. This automation reduces operational expenses, minimises errors, and enhances trust among parties. “There are so many examples in agriculture where smart contracts and blockchain can be gamechangers, so I’ll just touch on 3,” says De Bruyn. “The first is import and export, which involves negotiation, administrative work, and processes and verifications that are cumbersome and, to some extent, expensive. Smart contracts allow these processes and procedures to be automated, shortening the time of the process, while also making it more secure.” Another example is trade, which is streamlined by smart contracts that automate and facilitate payment solutions. With the surge in agricultural trade platforms, the use of smart contracts means that innovations are constantly being brought to the table. De Bruyn adds that, from the bank’s perspective, smart contracts can expedite and streamline the process between getting credit approval from a commercial bank and receiving the finance. This means that the whole process – from sending facility letters, giving instructions and registering securities – is automated, reducing the time and administrative tasks usually associated with it. This technology is new, but the opportunities are massive, so it’s a very exciting development for organisations like Nedbank, for example. “Reducing or eliminating manual processes for our clients is what we’re seeking to achieve, but we’re also using the technology to enhance our systems and processes so that we can truly provide nextlevel service to the agriculture sector,” says De Bruyn. “We are at the next revolution of money, and we can build smart contracts that can give instructions to smart money. Web 3.0, which includes blockchain smart contracts, the metaverse, tokenisation and more, will replace the existing Web 2.0 as we know it, which hosts the www dot websites that we’re all familiar with. “Everything will change with Web 3.0, and it’s important that we, as a commercial bank, are ready. Our agricultural clients want fast processes. They want frictionless, costeffective solutions. They embrace technology, and we want to provide it to the agricultural community.” Let’s talk about sustainability Jones highlights the importance of addressing the sustainability implications of blockchain, particularly in light of growing environmental concerns around emerging technologies. “There is a perception that blockchain technology consumes a great deal of electricity, which is not strictly true. The Bitcoin network does use a significant amount of power, but it’s important to remember that there are different blockchain solutions. “The one that Nedbank is exploring, for example, has modest electricity requirements. Depending on the underlying consensus algorithm, it’s possible to achieve a 99% energy reduction in your deployment solution. This is supported by industry research done by the World Economic Forum that was published in 2021.” Jones adds that blockchain solutions provide a simple way to manage carbon credits, which can also be leveraged for tax deduction purposes. “For example, farmers can map out their land and use formal carbon credit standard bodies like the Verra Registry – the world’s largest carbon credit registry – to certify the carbon credits under their control. The farmers can then capture that information in a smart contract to effectively tokenise the carbon credits under their management.” While smart contract technology is already being deployed internationally and in South Africa, De Bruyn notes that its use is not yet as widespread. South Africa: Blockchain and Smart Contracts to Transform Agriculture
9 South Africa: Blockchain and Smart Contracts to Transform Agriculture
MEA | Q2 2025 How sustainable practices are transforming the Kruger National Park experience. he challenge of overtourism Overtourism has become a significant concern for popular travel destinations worldwide. This phenomenon occurs when a high volume of tourists overwhelm a location, leading to deteriorating visitor experiences and adverse impacts on the environment, local culture and infrastructure. The consequences of overtourism are multifaceted and affect both the natural landscape and the communities that depend on tourism for their livelihoods. One of the most affected regions in South Africa is the Kruger National Park. Famous for its vast savannas, rich wildlife (including the Big Five) and a diverse array of bird species, the park has long been a magnet for tourists. However, the increasing number of visitors has raised concerns about the sustainability of tourism practices and the long-term preservation of this unique ecosystem. Bearded Heron Safaris: Leading the way to responsible tourism Amidst these challenges, Bearded Heron Safaris stands out as a beacon of responsible tourism. This innovative safari operator is making remarkable strides in minimizing the effects of overtourism by focusing its operations on the northern part of the Kruger National Park. By doing so, Bearded Heron Safaris is able to offer an immersive and intimate experience that highlights the savanna’s ecological diversity, including the iconic Big Five and extraordinary birdlife. Immersive and intimate safari experiences Bearded Heron Safaris’ approach to tourism aims to create a deeper connection between visitors and the natural environment. By operating in less frequented areas of the reserve, Bearded Heron provide guests with an authentic and serene experience, far removed from the crowded The Consequences of Overtourism: A Case Study on Bearded Heron Safaris’ Efforts in Responsible Tourism T tourist hotspots. This method not only enhances the visitor experience but also helps to distribute the tourism load more evenly across the park, thereby reducing pressure on the more popular sections. The safari experience offered by Bearded Heron Safaris includes guided tours with knowledgeable local hosts who share their insights into the region’s flora and fauna. Guests can expect to encounter the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and buffalo – as well as a myriad of bird species that are unique to this part of the world. The intimate nature of these tours allow for a more personalised and enriching experience and fosters a greater appreciation for the park’s natural beauty and ecological importance. Sustainable practices and innovations In addition to their unique approach to safari tours, Bearded Heron Safaris has implemented several pioneering sustainable practices. Notably, has eliminated single-use plastics from its operations – a significant step towards reducing environmental impact. In addition, it is the first safari operator in the Kruger National Park to use solar-powered on-board fridges and freezers. This innovation not only ensures that food and beverages are stored sustainably but also serves as a model for other operators in the park. Expanding responsible tourism to the Karoo and the Cape Neil and Tina Heron, the visionaries behind Bearded Heron Safaris, have recently embarked on a mission to extend their responsible tourism efforts beyond the Kruger National Park. Their recent trip to the Karoo and the Cape aims to establish similar intimate and immersive experiences in these regions. The Karoo’s unique offerings The Karoo, known for its arid landscapes and rich biodiversity, hosts some of the world’s most significant fossil finds. This region is home to a variety of mammals and birds not typically seen in the Kruger National Park, offering a unique and complementary experience to safari-goers. By providing fully guided and hosted tours, Bearded Heron Safaris ensures that visitors can explore the Karoo’s natural wonders while learning from local experts who are deeply knowledgeable about the area’s history and ecology. The Cape’s cultural and culinary delights Similarly, in the Cape region, Bearded Heron Safaris is developing experiences that highlight the local culture and cuisine. Guests can look forward to staying in charming B&Bs and boutique hotels, which each
11 By Neil Heron offer a distinctive taste of local hospitality. The tours are designed to be fully immersive, with local hosts who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and ensuring that visitors have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. South Africa’s diverse national parks South Africa boasts 24 national parks and each boasts its own unique blend of cultural, historical and ecological diversity. From the arid expanses of the Kalahari to the lush forests of Knysna, the majestic Drakensberg mountain range and the iconic landscapes of the Kruger and the Cape, there is no shortage of natural beauty to explore. Fostering sustainable tourism across the nation Bearded Heron Safaris is committed to protecting its guests from the pitfalls of overtourism while introducing them to the rich tapestry of South Africa’s natural and cultural heritage. Our mission is to provide immersive and intimate experiences that showcase the best of what these regions have to offer, all while adhering to principles of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Conclusion The efforts of Bearded Heron Safaris demonstrate that it is possible to offer exceptional tourism experiences, without compromising the health and integrity of the environment. By focusing on responsible tourism practices, Bearded Heron is setting a new standard for safari operators in South Africa and beyond. As travellers become more conscious of their impact on the destinations they visit, initiatives like those of Bearded Heron Safaris will play a crucial role in ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our natural world. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure that respects and preserves the environment, Bearded Heron Safaris offers a compelling choice. Their innovative approach to minimising the impact of overtourism while providing deep, meaningful connections with nature and culture sets them apart as leaders in the field of sustainable travel.
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