As part of a high-level diplomatic and investment mission, Dr. Emily Mogano and Mr. Olivier Fousse, Managing Directors of the NEO Royal Executive Club (NREC), joined a distinguished South African delegation in a strategic visit to Abu Dhabi Ports, reinforcing the Club’s commitment to facilitating global partnerships and forward-looking investment opportunities.
Organized in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Provincial Government, the mission focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation between the UAE and South Africa, particularly around trade, logistics, infrastructure, and maritime development.
The South African delegation included influential figures from both government and private sectors, notably:
KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government:
- MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa – Sub-national Minister for Agriculture & Rural Development
- Dr. Thobile Sifunda – Head of Department, Sport, Arts & Culture
- Mr. Zibusiso Dlamini – Head of Department, Agriculture
- Ms. Phumelele Mngomezulu
- Ms. Nokuzola Madonsela – Personal Assistant to the MEC
- Ms. T. Khumalo – Delegation Coordinator
Ethekwini Municipality:
- Mr. Musa Mbhele – City Manager
- Dr. Zakhi Mkhize – Acting Head, Parks & Recreation
- Mr. Lungelo Buthelezi – Project Executive
- Ms. Nomalanga Sokhela – Marine Economy Specialist
African Global Networks:
- Mr. Wiseman Mkhize – Executive Chairman & Leader of Delegation
- Mr. Asanda Mpaise – Managing Director
The engagement at Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports) emphasized collaboration around expanding AD Ports’ service footprint into Durban, a critical node in South Africa’s maritime economy. Discussions explored the potential for infrastructure development, technology-driven port services, and cross-border trade facilitation.
Dr. Emily Mogano and Olivier Fousse represented My NEO Group’s broader mission of fostering international economic diplomacy and creating purposeful connections between public institutions and private capital. Their presence at the mission highlighted NREC’s role as a trusted partner in bridging regional leadership with global investment networks.
The visit concluded on a high note, with both sides recognizing the potential for scalable impact, knowledge transfer, and long-term cooperation in the logistics and port development sectors.
