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Call to plant one million trees

Source: Government of South Africa

Call to plant one million trees

The Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Bernice Swarts, has called on South Africans to plant trees to help reduce the impact of carbon emissions and restore natural ecosystems.

“I learnt that we are not doing enough to meet the tree planting targets. This is due to limited resources within the fiscus. There is a realisation now that we can do better through collaboration,” Swarts said on Thursday in Durban.

Addressing the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) National Urban Forum in KwaZulu-Natal, the Deputy Minister explained that tree planting is a valuable tool in the fight against climate change as it acts as a natural carbon sink by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 

“While not a complete solution, reforestation and afforestation initiatives play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and helping communities adapt to its impacts,” she said.

Trees provide a range of benefits beyond carbon sequestration, including habitat for biodiversity, soil stabilisation, and water purification.

South Africa’s Constitution recognises that everyone has a right to an environment that is not harmful to human health and well-being, and to have the environment protected, for the benefit of present and future generations.

“Tree planting has been happening in South Africa for a number of years, this then led to the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, directing that the tree planting programme be escalated to Ten Million Trees over a period of five years starting from 2020/21.”

READ | Campaign to plant trees and help mitigate effects of climate change

The Deputy Minister challenged the nation to plant one million trees on 24 September 2025 as part of celebrations for Arbor Month. 

“The target that is set is not only for the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), but it is a call for action to other role–players to assist in achieving the target. I am calling on all South Africans to plant one million trees.
“This initiative has been consulted with a number of stakeholders who have shown interest in planting the trees. It is also important to note that once the trees are planted, they need to be taken care of, hence we have identified safe space to do the planting,” Swarts said.

The safe spaces include human settlements, clinics, schools, and police stations. 

“The idea is that these trees must be available when we come back to audit them. Furthermore, this initiative is structured such that citizens of the country start to appreciate the role that trees play in our daily lives. In terms of municipalities, the department is also assisting with [the] drafting of greening plans to ensure that all areas are greened appropriately,” she said.
The DFFE has noted with concern the increased pressures on natural forests, especially coastal forests due to urban development.

“Forests also play a crucial role in mitigating various natural disasters, acting as natural buffers against events like floods, landslides, and droughts. Deforestation, however, significantly weakens these protective functions, increasing disaster risks and impacts. 

“Deforestation, the clearing of forests, also significantly undermines disaster risk management efforts. It is therefore important that urban planners, particularly in cities like Durban / eThekwini, [to] take into account the need to safeguard the integrity of the environment,” the Deputy Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Seychelles: President Ramkalawan Arrives in Rome Ahead of Audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV

Source: APO


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The President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan, arrived in Rome on Thursday evening ahead of his audience with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Apostolic Palace, Vatican City, on Friday, 22 August 2025.

On arrival, President Ramkalawan and the First Lady, Mrs Linda Ramkalawan, were warmly welcomed by the Vatican Head of Protocol. Apostolic Nuntius emeritus, Mgr. Javier D. Fernandez, at the airport.

The President is accompanied on this official mission by the Principal Minister, Mr Jean-François Ferrari, and the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde and the Ambassador of the Republic of Seychelles to the Holy See, Ms Beryl Samson.

The upcoming audience will provide an opportunity to strengthen relations between Seychelles and the Holy See and to exchange views on global and national issues of shared concern.

Also present was Ms. Paola Adelmann, representing the Honorary Consul General of Seychelles in Rome, Italy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Meeting between Minister for Foreign Affairs IWAYA and Minister SASSOU N’GUESSO of the Republic of Congo

Source: APO


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On August 22, commencing at 10:00 a.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a meeting with H.E. Mr. Denis Christel SASSOU N’GUESSO, Minister of International Cooperation and Promotion of Public-Private Partnership of the Republic of Congo, who is visiting Japan to participate in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The overview of the meeting is as follows:

  1. At the outset, Minister IWAYA stated his desire to further develop bilateral relations with the Republic of Congo, a country blessed with abundant natural resources such as crude oil and possessing significant economic potential. In response, Minister Sassou N’Guesso highly appreciated Japan’s efforts in TICAD to date and expressed his desire to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in the international arena.
  2. Minister IWAYA mentioned that Japan decided on providing food assistance as well as dispatching experts in rice cultivation and fisheries to ensure food security in the Republic of Congo, and stated his desire to continue cooperating to resolve development challenges in the Republic of Congo. In response, Minister Sassou N’Guesso expressed his gratitude for Japan’s past support and his expectation of further investment by Japanese companies.
  3. In addition, the two ministers exchanged views and concurred in closely working together to respond to various regional and international challenges, including their policies toward North Korea including on the nuclear and missile issues and the abductions issue, as well as the United Nations Security Council reform.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

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Japan-Mozambique Summit Meeting

Source: APO


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On August 22, commencing at 8:45 p.m. for approximately 20 minutes, Mr. ISHIBA Shigeru, Prime Minister of Japan, held a summit meeting with H.E. Mr. Daniel Francisco CHAPO, President of the Republic of Mozambique, who is visiting Japan to participate in the in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The overview of the meeting is as follows:

  1. At the outset, Prime Minister ISHIBA expressed his congratulations on the inauguration of the first president born after Mozambique’s independence and on the 50th anniversary of independence. Prime Minister ISHIBA also referred to the long-standing cooperative relations between the two countries in various fields, such as infrastructure and public safety, and expressed his desire to further strengthen bilateral relations, including economic relations. In response, President Chapo commended the strengthening of Japan-Africa relations through TICAD and expressed his desire to further strengthen bilateral relations through various cooperation.
  2. Following that, Prime Minister ISHIBA requested President Chapo to support the resumption of the LNG project in Cabo Delgado Province and to provide assistance for stable production and stated that Japan decided to provide maternal and child health equipment to the province. Prime Minister ISHIBA announced the decision to launch a new “Co-creation for common agenda initiative” targeting the Nacala Corridor region, connecting Zambia and Malawi to the Indian Ocean via Mozambique to support the development of transportation infrastructure and the promotion of industry in the surrounding areas. In response, President Chapo expressed his gratitude for Japan’s various support and stated that he would continue to make every effort to stabilize security in Cabo Delgado Province. President Chapo also stated that he would provide support to Japanese companies operating in Mozambique. Both leaders confirmed their continued support for Cabo Delgado Province and the Nacala Corridor.
  3. The two leaders also exchanged views and concurred in closely working together to respond to various international challenges.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

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Japan-Egypt Summit Meeting

Source: APO


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On August 22, commencing at 9:15 a.m. for approximately 15 minutes, Mr. ISHIBA Shigeru, Prime Minister of Japan, held a summit meeting with H.E. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, who is visiting Japan to participate in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), in Yokohama. The overview of the meeting is as follows:

  1. At the outset, Prime Minister ISHIBA welcomed the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which symbolizes the cultural cooperation between Japan and Egypt, and expressed his intention to continue cooperation in its operation as well as the preservation and restoration of antiquities. He also expressed concern over the serious humanitarian situation in Gaza and conveyed Japan’s support for Egypt’s efforts to mediate a ceasefire.
  2. Prime Minister ISHIBA welcomed a number of Memoranda of Understanding concluded between the two governments and companies of both countries during TICAD 9. He also proposed establishing a framework, led by both governments, to support investment and business expansion, based on the high level of interest shown by Japanese companies at the investment conference held on August 19. Furthermore, Prime Minister ISHIBA stated that Japan will promote joint research between the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology and universities in Japan and Africa, with a view to developing the university as a regional hub. In response, Prime Minister Madbouly showed his appreciation for Japan’s assistance to date and expressed his expectation for further expansion of Japanese businesses in Egypt and pledged to cooperate in improving the business and investment environment.
  3. The two leaders concurred to continue close cooperation in various fields, including culture, education, economy, and economic cooperation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

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Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9): Japan and African Development Bank sign agreement to extend Enhanced Private Sector Assistance for $5.5 billion sixth phase

Source: APO


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The government of Japan and the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding launching the sixth phase of the Enhanced Private Sector Assistance (EPSA6) agreement, which provides a framework for critical resource mobilization and development partnership for African countries.

Under EPSA6, the Bank and JICA will work together to support regional member countries for the period 2026-2028, with a financial package of up to $5.5 billion – half a billion more than EPSA5 – while ensuring their debt sustainability.

The brief signing ceremony by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka, and African Development Bank Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth Kevin Kariuki, took place during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), ongoing in Yokohama, Japan. Mr. Katsunobu Kato, Finance Minister of Japan witnessed the ceremony.

The EPSA Initiative (https://apo-opa.co/3HMe4fn), created in partnership with the Government of Japan in 2005, supports the implementation of the Bank’s Strategy for Private Sector Development. Its key priorities are power, connectivity, health, agriculture and nutrition.

Dr.  Tanaka said co-financing under previous EPSA agreements since 2005, had resulted in $12 billion of support to Africa from the African Development Bank and JICA. The $5.5 billion ambitious new target for EPSA6 is more than five times the original target of EPSA1, 20 years ago, he said. “This reflects the growing strength of our partnership and the increasing importance of our joint effort,” he added. He also announced that resilience would be a new priority under EPSA6. “With this focus we are committed to address not only climate change but also a broad range of shocks.”

Tanaka lauded the role played by outgoing African Development Bank President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, for over half of EPSA’s history. “Thanks to his strong ownership and support, we are pleased that EPSA5 is now almost reaching its target of $5 billion by the end of this year,” he said.

The EPSA non-sovereign operations component helps finance the Bank’s private sector operations through a line of credit from JICA to the Bank on concessional terms. Previous EPSA agreements have helped finance critical infrastructure such as the Bujagali Hydropower Plant (Uganda), RASCOM (the first Pan-African communication satellite), the East Africa Submarine Cable System, Lekki Toll road (Nigeria), and the Kigali Bulk Water Supply in Rwanda.

“The Government of Japan is one of the strongest shareholders of the African Development Bank and contributors to the African Development Fund. In addition, EPSA is the largest and longest-standing bilateral partnership the Bank has with any of its member countries. We recognize that Japan has been an early mover in supporting private sector in Africa since 2005,” Kariuku said. “I wish to applaud the continued commitment of the Government of Japan towards Africa’s development, and I am confident that we will consolidate the successes of development collaborations between Japan and Africa in a mutually agreeable manner.”

EPSA 5, which ran from 2023 to 2025, involved a $5 billion financial cooperation announced at the Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8) in 2022.

EPSA5 had achieved a $4 billion joint cofinancing target “as of today,” Kariuki declared, with projects worth $1.6 billion at an advanced stage of co-financing by the end of 2025, leading to a total of $5.6 billion of co-financing by the end of December 2025 – 112% of the $5 billion target.

In earlier opening comments Minister Kato said EPSA 6’s focus on resilience would help African countries with a heavy debt burden as well as expand  private sector investment.

“Africa has tremendous opportunities for significant market expansion,” Kato said.

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

Contact:
Amba Mpoke-Bigg
Communication and External Relations Department
Email: media@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. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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Police seize illicit cigarettes 

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 22, 2025

A multidisciplinary inter-provincial cross border operation comprising the Northern Cape, Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Free State provinces successfully disrupted the trade and distribution of illicit cigarettes in and around Colesberg on Wednesday.

According to Northern Cape police, search warrants were obtained and executed, resulting in the seizure of counterfeit cigarettes valued at approximately R370 000.

Members of Colesberg South African Police Service (SAPS), Kuyasa SAPS, Crime Intelligence and South African Revenue Services (SARS) customs acted on intelligence and approached a general dealer in Kerk Street, Colesberg, where illicit cigarette trading was suspected.

“A suspicious truck parked next to the store was also searched. Police discovered a further consignment of counterfeit cigarettes valued at approximately R2.5 million, which was seized as well as the truck,” said the SAPS in a statement.

The operation continued at a filling station in station Road, Colesberg, where additional counterfeit cigarettes worth an estimated R590 000 were confiscated.

The total estimated value of the seized cigarettes and the truck stands at R7.5 million. The owners were issued a seven-day notice to provide original documentation for the goods,” the police said.

The Provincial Police Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the team for their work.

She reiterated that the SAPS and its partners remain unwavering in their efforts to eradicate the illicit trade in counterfeit goods which pose a serious threat to the country’s economy. – SAnews.gov.za

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Call for bold innovation to tackle water challenges

Source: Government of South Africa

Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has called for bold innovation, cross-border collaboration, and sustainable practices to confront the escalating global water crisis.

Speaking at the 3rd International Conference on Earth and Environmental Sciences (ICEES 2025) gathering held this week, Mahlobo warned that South Africa’s water scarcity demands urgent action and cannot be treated as “business as usual.”

Organised by the University of Zululand in partnership with Chang’an University in China, the conference held from 17-20 August at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, brought together leading scientists, policymakers, industry experts, and emerging scholars.

It provided delegates the opportunity to share knowledge, present groundbreaking research, and explore actionable strategies for ensuring a sustainable future.

Mahlobo participated in a high-level panel on Water Security and Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) alongside the department’s Deputy Director-General, Dr Risimati Mathye, and uMngeni-uThukela Water Chief Executive, Sandile Mkhize.

“There is ample evidence showing how semi-arid our country is, and that it cannot be business as usual. That is why the department, and government published the National Water Resource Strategy Number 3.

“This aims to reassess the water deficit and to investigate new technologies, such as water desalination, as well as partnerships with higher education for research to improve existing water sources, including groundwater, effluent reuse, and assessing the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of these options,” Mahlobo said.

Mahlobo also emphasised the importance of integrating Indigenous Knowledge Systems and practices into solutions, as they are a form of science that modern technology can build upon.

“Communities are not passive beneficiaries; they are stakeholders. Their lived experiences of droughts and floods, and their land management practices, hold vital lessons for building resilience.”

He further challenged the scientific community to ensure that their research findings inform governance and decision-making, rather than remaining in academic silos.

“Being a scientist or engineer does not mean stepping away from governance. Choose to be part of the main table where critical decisions are made, or risk being sidelined while the future of shared prosperity is shaped without your input,” the Deputy Minister said.

The 2025 edition of the gathering held in KwaZulu-Natal, placed particular focus on climate change, sustainable water management, pollution control, and interdisciplinary approaches to global sustainability.

The ICEES 2025 aimed to bridge gaps between research and implementation, fostering collaborative solutions to global challenges.

In an era of escalating environmental crises, the conference highlighted the role of scientific communities in shaping policies, driving sustainable practices, and promoting global equity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Hlabisa advocates for urbanisation as a catalyst for growth

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), Velenkosini Hlabisa, has emphasised that urbanisation can catalyse growth, innovation, and social inclusion, if managed effectively. 

The Minister delivered the keynote address at the 2025 National Urban Forum (NUF), currently taking place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (ICC) in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal.

The two-day forum marks South Africa’s second NUF, reaffirming the country’s commitment to the global urban agenda through continuous policy refinement and implementation.

This year’s edition coincides with South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) and Urban20 (U20), further amplifying its significance on the international stage.

Hlabisa stated that the forum is addressing critical challenges such as rapid urban migration, which places pressure on infrastructure, including transport, water, and housing.

It also promotes environmental sustainability through balanced urban growth and protection, and advocates for urban social cohesion through equitable access to services supported by integrated planning.

Speaking in his capacity as the policy custodian of the Integrated Urban Development Framework (IUDF), Hlabisa described the forum as a strategic opportunity to reshape urban life.

Reflecting on the progress of the IUDF (2020–2025), Hlabisa highlighted achievements in spatial planning, small-town regeneration, and innovative financing models, while recognising ongoing issues such as fragmented implementation and limited municipal capacity.

He called for recalibrated strategies that promote inclusivity and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

The Minister believes that the forum catalyses socio-economic transformation, highlighting the importance of partnerships with academia and the private sector to turn urban development plans into actionable outcomes.

“The National Urban Forum is not a talk shop. It is a platform for action,” he said. 

He outlined the core principles guiding the current review of the IUDF implementation plan. 

This approach emphasises collaboration across government and society to establish accountability and foster inclusive urban development, ensuring that the voices of marginalised groups – such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities are elevated.

The plan also focuses on innovation in financing and technology, leveraging digital advancements while promoting climate resilience and sustainability. 

It is anchored in solid municipal strategies and aims to strengthen local government capacity through targeted support and enhancement of skills.

“At the heart of these engagements is the realisation of the IUDF vision of creating liveable, safe, resource-efficient cities and towns that are socially integrated, economically inclusive, and globally competitive – where residents actively participate in urban life.”

The IUDF is South Africa’s policy framework for reorganising the urban system to ensure cities and towns are inclusive, resource-efficient, and conducive to improved living and working conditions.

It aligns with the National Development Plan (NDP) and promotes a shared understanding across government and society for managing urbanisation effectively, in line with the District Development Model (DDM).

In addition, adopted globally in 2016, the New Urban Agenda (NUA) serves as a roadmap for creating sustainable, resilient, and inclusive cities. It highlights that well-managed urbanisation is a crucial driver for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year’s NUF offers a collaborative platform for government, civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders to tackle South Africa’s urban development challenges. 

In addition, it serves as a precursor to the 12th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF12).

“Cities are not just spaces; they are stories. Let us write the next chapter together, one of justice, opportunity, and sustainability for all,” he added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Déclaration, enregistrement et obtention de l’acte de naissance : Un nouveau jour pour l’état civil béninois (Agence Nationale d’Identification des Personnes (ANIP) lance la phase pilote du guichet unique dans plusieurs formations sanitaires)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


L’Agence Nationale d’Identification des Personnes (ANIP), avec l’appui des partenaires WURI et l’UNICEF facilite désormais la tâche aux parents. L’état civil au Bénin se modernise de jour en jour. Désormais, dans une dizaine de formations sanitaires publiques, la déclaration, l’enregistrement des naissances et l’obtention de l’acte de naissance du nouveau-né se feront sur place, grâce à l’installation d’un guichet unique dont la phase pilote a été lancée ce mercredi 20 Août 2025 au CHU-MEL de Cotonou par le représentant du Directeur Général de l’ANIP, le Responsable des Politiques, des Partenariats et de la Communication multicanal, Monsieur Herbert ASSOGBA. 

C’était en présence du représentant du Coordonnateur du Projet WURI, Monsieur Aimé O.UDOU, du Représentant résident de l’UNICEF au Bénin, Monsieur Ousmane NIANG, du Directeur Général du CHU-MEL de Cotonou Monsieur Sourou Raymond KINTOMONHO, du Directeur de l’état civil Monsieur Abdon Marius MIKPON’AI et de plusieurs acteurs du secteur de la santé. 

En effet, les parents doivent souvent se rendre plusieurs fois dans les unités communales pour finaliser l’enregistrement d’une naissance. Le guichet unique vient à point pour simplifier et accélérer ce processus, afin de garantir que chaque enfant ait une identité légale dès sa naissance, car le dispositif est implanté dans certaines formations sanitaires. 

La phase pilote se déroule dans dix formations sanitaires publiques notamment le CHU-MEL de Cotonou, le CNHU de Cotonou, le CHU d’Abomey-Calavi, les hôpitaux départementaux du Zou-Collines, de l’Ouémé, du Borgou-Alibori, du Mono, l’Hôpital de zone de Natitingou, l’hôpital de zone de Suru-Léré, et l’hôpital Ordre de Malte de Djougou. 

« Plus besoin d’aller à la mairie pour déclarer la naissance. L’enregistrement est fait directement dans la formation sanitaire. Les parents reçoivent par SMS le Numéro Personnel d’Identification (NPI) de leur enfant. Ils peuvent ensuite obtenir facilement l’acte de naissance et le certificat NPI en ligne ou aux guichets physiques de l’ANIP. L’enregistrement des naissances et l’attribution du NPI sont gratuits », a indiqué Monsieur Herbert ASSOGBA. 

Le guichet unique ne sert pas seulement les nouveaux-nés. Les parents qui n’ont pas encore fait le RAVIP pourront également le faire directement. Mais ils pourront aussi mettre à jour leurs coordonnées. Les partenaires WURI et l’UNICEF salue cette avancée qu’ils qualifient de formidable. 

La phase pilote se déroule sur 6 mois, du d’août 2025 à Février 2026. Le modèle sera généralisé, rassure Monsieur Herbert ASSOGBA, représentant le Directeur Général de l’ANIP.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.