Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: APO

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More than 22,000 people including over 11,000 children have been displaced in Mahaas in central Somalia due to intense fighting that has left thousands cut off without basic services, Save the Children said. 

Clashes between local militia, government forces and non-state armed groups in the Hiraan region have intensified in the last two months, with a significant escalation on July 27 displacing over 22,800 people [1] in Mahaas district alone, more than half of them children [2]. Displaced people are living in nearby villages with host families in overcrowded conditions or in open grazing lands without basic services. 

Save the Children is concerned that 21 health sites they support are currently suspended due to the ongoing conflict. This includes a stabilisation centre for children suffering from severe acute malnutrition. Health facility staff have fled the area, leaving families and children without care. 

At the time of the escalation in fighting, over 150 children who were receiving treatment for severe acute malnutrition in Mahaas and surrounding villages fled with their families to Bulo Burte and Beledweyne. Save the Children teams in Beledweyne are trying to trace these children and get them back on treatment.   

Additionally, the conflict has resulted in damage to water sources, obstructed road access, and led to a significant increase in food insecurity, with families losing access to grazing land, markets, and clean water. 

Women, children, and vulnerable groups are lacking decent housing and psychological discomfort while Save the Children is deeply concerned over increased reports that young boys are being recruited to fight in the conflict by actors on both sides.

Across central and southern Somalia, conflict has displaced about 100,000 people in the Hiraan and Gedo regions in the past two months, according to humanitarian partners and local authorities, placing additional strain on already limited local resources with shortages of shelter, food, clean water, and healthcare.  

The aid agency said the recent displacement adds another crisis to a community already battered by a severe drought which has led to a sharp increase in malnutrition, with children lacking access to life saving health services due to aid cuts.

Earlier this year 32 Save the Children supported health facilities were closed due to aid cuts in Hiran region.  

Save the Children’s Country Director for Somalia, Mohamud Mohamed Hassan, said:

“We are concerned that the conflict in Hiran region has disrupted lifesaving services for children, including children who were being treated for malnutrition and have been forced to flee from health centres with their families.    

“As of today, no significant humanitarian aid has been delivered, highlighting the urgent need for unimpeded, coordinated humanitarian assistance to address critical lifesaving needs. 

“Save the Children’s assessment has revealed that displaced families arriving in Beledweyne are facing severe humanitarian conditions, with many having arrived with no food, shelter, or basic supplies. Most are living in overcrowded, makeshift settlements with limited support from overstretched host communities. There is an urgent need for shelter, food, water, health, and protection services, particularly for vulnerable groups like women, children, and the elderly.”

Save the Children calling for immediate assistance to address critical needs. This includes emergency shelter and non-food items distribution, food and water support, deployment of mobile health services, and protection services including psychosocial support. Humanitarian actors should coordinate with local authorities and host communities to ensure inclusive and targeted interventions, while also planning early recovery activities such as education and livelihoods to support long-term resilience

Save the Children has been working in Somalia and Somaliland since 1951 and has programmes throughout the country which support children’s healthcare, education and food needs. Last year we reached 3.2 million people, including 1.9 million children.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Save the Children.

Source: APO

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The Seychelles Tourism Academy proudly concluded its 2025 graduation ceremony Thursday afternoon, celebrating the achievements of 181 graduates across ten specialized tourism and hospitality programs. The ceremony, held at the International Conference Centre Seychelles (ICCS), was graced by the presence of President Wavel Ramkalawan, who attended alongside First Lady Linda Ramkalawan and a host of distinguished guests.

The graduating cohort represented three distinct academic levels, reflecting the Academy’s comprehensive educational framework. Among them, 11 students were awarded Advanced Diplomas in Hospitality Management—a rigorous three-year program aimed at developing future industry leaders. All recipients of this diploma met the academic requirements to pursue further studies at the renowned Shannon College of Hotel Management in Ireland.

The Advanced Certificate programs, conducted over two years, produced 78 graduates across five specialized disciplines: Restaurant & Bar Services, Food Preparation & Culinary Arts, Wellness & Spa, Reception Operations & Services, and Tourism & Tour Guiding. The Certificate programs, delivered through an apprenticeship model over eighteen months, graduated 92 students across four key areas: Restaurant & Bar Services, Food Preparation & Culinary Arts, Accommodation Operations & Services, and Reception Operations & Services. The Food Preparation & Culinary Arts program recorded the highest enrollment, with 38 graduates, including six students who completed their studies on Praslin Island.

The ceremony’s highlight was the presentation of prestigious awards recognizing exceptional academic achievement, practical excellence, and character development. The prestigious President’s Cup was awarded to Elaine Hoareau, recognizing exemplary academic performance, active participation in academy life, and exceptional ambassadorial qualities. This distinguished graduate demonstrated outstanding leadership skills, maintained exemplary conduct in terms of attitude, punctuality, and personal presentation standards, while actively participating in various academy activities at both national and international levels. Ms Hoareau received an extensive prize package including a laptop computer and scholarship from the President of the Republic, accommodation packages from premier resorts including North Island Seychelles and Canopy by Hilton Seychelles Resort, an Air Seychelles ticket to Abu Dhabi, and numerous other valuable prizes.

The Director’s Awards for remarkable personal transformation were presented to Lara Dick and Brendon Malvina, honouring their significant behavioural improvements and commitment to personal growth throughout their academic journey. Bashiir Pharce received the Governing Board Award in recognition of his outstanding practical skills, while the Minister’s Awards celebrated the highest academic achievers across all three program levels: Wayne Esther (Certificate Level), Micaella Dogley (Advanced Certificate Level) and Petra Estico (Advance Diploma Level).

In his address, Academy Director Mr. Richard Mathiot congratulated the graduating cohort on reaching a significant milestone in their professional journey. He encouraged them to remain focused and committed as they transition into the hospitality and tourism industry.

Also included during the ceremony was a motivational speech by Mr. Maxime Rachel, General Manager of Hotel La Cigale Praslin, vote of thanks by Graduate Chloe Elizabeth, musical performances and souvenir photo sessions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

Source: APO

The European Union‑Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC) (www.EU-Africa-Chamber.org) is deeply saddened by the tragic military helicopter crash that occurred on 6 August 2025 in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, claiming the lives of eight individuals, including the Honourable Minister of Defence, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and the Honourable Minister for Environment, Science and Technology, Dr Murtala Mahammed (MP).

“On behalf of our Board, members, and all our partners across Europe, Africa, and internationally, we extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Prof Naana Jane Opoku Agyeman, Vice-President, Republic of Ghana, the bereaved families, The government, and people of Ghana in this hour of profound grief.

We mourn alongside the Ghana Armed Forces and the ruling National Democratic Congress and recognize the gravity of this national tragedy.

EUACC stands in solidarity with Ghana, offering moral support and unwavering commitment to streghten its collaboration with this country of investment opportunities.

May the souls of the departed rest in peace, may the people of Ghana find strength and resilience in this difficult time, and may Ghana’s unity guide the nation toward healing.” Sonia Toro – Executive Director, EUACC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce (EUACC).

For further information, please contact:
Communications Department, EU‑Africa Chamber of Commerce
Email: media@eu-africa-chamber.org
www.EU-Africa-Chamber.org

Source: APO – Report:

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The Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (“ICD”) (https://ICD-ps.org), a multilateral development financial institution and the private sector arm of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, is pleased to announce the successful closure of USD 145 million Shariah compliant syndicated financing facility for Türkiye İhracat Kredi Bankası A.Ş. or Export Credit Bank of Türkiye A.S. (“Turk Eximbank”). The facility has been structured as a Commodity Murabaha with a tenor of 3 years. This partnership between the two institutions aims to boost export-oriented businesses and export of private sector businesses in Türkiye and provide Shariah-compliant financing solutions to support exporters.

The syndicated financing facility was led by ICD as Mandated Lead Arranger and Bookrunner. ICD is also the Investment Agent of the facility. Three leading GCC-based Islamic banks participated in the facility. Warba Bank K.P.S.C. and Kuwait International Bank K.P.S.C. joined as Joint Lead Arrangers, whereas AlRayan Bank Q.P.S.C joined as Co-Lead Arranger.

The ICD remains committed to develop Shariah compliant financial channels in member countries to promote Islamic finance. This syndicated financing facility demonstrates the strong relationship of ICD, a multilateral development financial institution, with other leading Islamic Financial Institutions, to mobilize resources toward the sustainable development of the private sector across its member countries.

Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, Acting CEO of ICD, stated “I am glad to announce this medium-term financing facility, which is designed to promote economic development and support Shariah-compliant export-oriented businesses in Türkiye. Through this initiative, we aim to empower private sector projects, particularly corporates and SMEs, those have meaningful developmental impact on the Turkish economy”

Mr. Ali Güney, General Manager of Turk Eximbank also stated “Turk Eximbank is one of the main enablers of government’s export-led growth strategy and the largest development bank in Türkiye. We remain committed to support Turkish exporters and strengthening their global competitiveness. We consider ICD a strategic partner in this endeavor and look forward to continuing our cooperation in the future”

– on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD).

For More Information:
For further details, please contact:
Telephone: +90 (216) 666 55 00
E-Mail: info@eximbank.gov.tr
Website: https://Eximbank.gov.tr/en

For More Information:
For further details, please contact:
Nabil El-Alami
Communications & Corporate Marketing Division head
Nalami@isdb.org
Website: https://ICD-ps.org

About Turk Eximbank:
Turk Eximbank is the official export credit agency of the Republic of Türkiye and the leading provider of export finance in the country. Turk Eximbank is fully owned by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Treasury and Finance acting as the Turkish government’s major export incentive instrument in Türkiye’s sustainable export strategy. As Türkiye’s official export credit agency, Turk Eximbank has been mandated to support foreign trade and Turkish contractors/investors operating overseas.

About the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD):
ICD is a multilateral organization and a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. ICD’s mandate is to support economic development and promote the growth of the private sector in its member countries through providing financing facilities and/or investments in accordance with Shariah principles. Additionally, ICD offers advisory services to governments and private organizations to encourage the establishment, expansion, and modernization of private enterprises.  ICD is rated ‘A2’ by Moody’s, ‘A+’ by Fitch, and ‘A-’ by S&P.

Source: APO

This Women’s Day, WomenIN calls on every woman, ally, and leader to take up space, raise their voice, and own their power — unapologetically.

To mark Women’s Month, WomenIN proudly launches #LimitlessVoices, a bold, raw, and empowering campaign that honours the stories of African women who are redefining what’s possible — across industries, communities, and generations.

“We created #LimitlessVoices to amplify the power of real stories — the truth behind what it takes to be a woman today,” says Naz Fredericks-Maharaj, Founding Director of the WomenIN Portfolio. “It’s about the courage to speak without apology, the strength to rise despite resistance, and the authenticity to lead from exactly where you are. WomenIN isn’t just a movement — it’s a mirror, a microphone, and a megaphone for every woman who is ready to be her most limitless self.”

Throughout August, the campaign shines a spotlight on powerful voices from across sectors — gaming to energy, retail to finance, mobility to sustainability — unfiltered and uncensored.

Here’s what some of the women featured in this year’s campaign had to say:

“We have to get out of our comfort zones sometimes — and WomenIN really inspires that, because you’re learning from so many people and always realizing that radical collaboration is so important.”

 — Tracey Gilmore, COO and Co-Founder of Taking Care of Business

“I’m a firm believer that there’s beauty in diversity. Being able to realise where we complement one another is critical if we’re going to build a future that works for everyone.”

 — Gamuchirai Mutizo, Founder of Madam Waste

“Being limitless embodies a world where women are not defined by stereotypes or glass ceilings, but are empowered to lead transformative change.”

 — Winnie Mamatsaraga, Department of Gender Mainstreaming & Transformation, Department of Electricity & Energy

Audiences are encouraged to watch, reflect, and share these powerful stories across social media and at www.WeAreWomenIN.com. Whether you’re in the boardroom, the classroom, or the community — your voice matters. And now is the time to use it.

The Countdown is On: WomenIN Festival Returns 13–14 November 2025 | Cape Town

The #LimitlessVoices campaign leads into Africa’s most inclusive and cross-sector women’s empowerment experience — the WomenIN Festival, taking place 13–14 November 2025 at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town.

Festival Theme:

LIMITLESS: No Labels. No Limits. No Apologies.

This unforgettable 2-day experience will bring together thousands of women, male allies, creatives, policy shapers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders for collaboration, connection, and cultural celebration.

Festival Highlights Include:

• Inspirational main stage sessions with trailblazing speakers
• Practical masterclasses, honest fireside chats, and immersive wellness zones
• Vibrant cross-sector networking and corporate + NPO industry activations
• A thriving marketplace of women-led brands and innovations
• Live entertainment, performance art, and moments of cultural magic

TICKETS NOW OPEN

• General Pass: R1,499 (excl. VAT)
• Premium Pass: R2,999 (excl. VAT)
• Group Package (10 seats): R29,999 (excl. VAT)

Book now at: www.WeAreWomenIIN.com/tickets

Beyond the Campaign: A Daily Movement for Women, by Women

WomenIN doesn’t end in August — it’s an everyday revolution. Through programs that keep girls in school, elevate women in tech, and support female-led African businesses, WiN is building a lasting legacy of empowerment, capacity-building, and collaborative leadership.

Join us. Use your voice. Take your place.

Because we rise higher when we rise together.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Additional Information:
Sponsor WiNFest https://apo-opa.co/3JmhTIA
Buy your ticket https://apo-opa.co/3UPxrah
https://apo-opa.co/3UUeWBu

Contact: info@wearewomenin.com

About WomenIN (WiN): Empowering Women, Breaking Barriers, Creating Impact:
WomenIN is a dynamic, cross-sector movement that connects, uplifts, and inspires women across Africa through collaboration, leadership, and sustainable development. From energy and mobility to gaming, retail, and the green economy, WomenIN is building inclusive ecosystems where women don’t just survive — they thrive.

Through curated events, digital storytelling, capacity-building workshops, and sector-specific initiatives, WomenIN offers a trusted space for women professionals, entrepreneurs, changemakers, and allies to grow together, break silos, and co-create Africa’s future.

Whether you’re a corporate, NPO, SMME, or an individual changemaker — there’s a seat at the table for you.

Because we win when we WiN together.

Visit: www.WeAreWomenIN.com

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group brings people and organisations together to connect through platforms that drive growth and transformation across Africa’s industries. With over 20 years of experience on the continent, VUKA delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Mobility, Retail, and Women Empowerment.

The WomenIN (WiN) portfolio is a flagship VUKA initiative, dedicated to championing gender inclusivity and creating space for women to lead, influence, and innovate across sectors. With a proudly African team and a focus on sustainability and transformation, VUKA is building a continent where everyone has the opportunity to rise.

Learn more at: www.WeAreWomenIN.com