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Europe is spending billions on deporting migrants. Why the strategy isn’t working

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Umutcan Yüksel, Analyst /Researcher, European University Institute

For over a decade, the European Union (EU) has relied on external partnerships to increase the return of migrants who don’t have the right to stay in Europe. It has used a growing web of funding instruments, projects and bilateral arrangements to get countries in Africa and the Middle East to cooperate in its bid to send migrants back to their home countries.

Its policies have included incentives such as the EU Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, the Facility for Refugees in Türkiye and the Neighbourhood Development and International Cooperation Instrument.

Billions of euros have been channelled into migration-related projects.

Incentives have been accompanied by coercion. The EU wields the revised Visa Code (Article 25a) as a lever, allowing the European Commission to impose visa restrictions on countries that don’t cooperate.

Alongside this financial and diplomatic leverage, the EU has invested heavily in enforcement infrastructure to increase returns. This includes border equipment, biometric databases, detention capacity and operational support through Frontex, the European border and coast guard agency.

The approach has been dubbed the EU’s externalisation strategy. It assumes that financial incentives can buy cooperation and that enforcement infrastructure can convert political agreements into actual returns.

In Africa, the EU has used funding primarily as a containment tool, while in the Middle East it has been a way to share the burden of the Syrian crisis. Neither model has produced the desired cooperation.

We are policy leader fellows at the European University Institute’s Florence School of Transnational Governance. Building on previous research on EU return and readmission governance, our latest policy brief examines whether the EU’s policies have led to sustained cooperation on returns from Africa and the Middle East. We drew on Eurostat returns data, EU spending records and the European Migration Network.

The short answer: it hasn’t. Return rates remain below 10% across most of Africa. In the Middle East, only a small number of states cooperate meaningfully. Our research confirms that return rates follow regional structural dynamics more than they respond to readmission agreements or funding levels.

We found that financial leverage and enforcement infrastructure have contributed to a more transactional and short-term approach. Cooperation is often negotiated case by case and dependent on short-term political bargaining.

Based on the evidence from our research, we argue that more funding on returns and readmissions will have limited effect on actual returns to countries of origin. We conclude with three recommendations for better aligning the EU’s return objectives with its financial and diplomatic investments.

First, measure the quality of returns rather than the volume alone, including the sustainability and safety of reintegration. Second, prioritise targeted migration diplomacy over broad financial packages, keeping migrant rights central to EU partnerships. And third, expand investment in legal labour migration pathways, currently under 10% of total EU migration spending.

Impact

The return rate of African migrants is, on aggregate, 9.9%. This figure masks dramatic sub-regional variation. North Africa’s 11.2% return rate is partly driven by cooperation with Morocco and Tunisia. In contrast, return rates are lower in west Africa (7.5%) and east Africa (7.9%), regions that generate many irregular arrivals to Europe and receive substantial EU migration funding.

In the Middle East, the region’s overall return rate is 16.8%. There is strong cooperation with Jordan (57.0%) and Iraq (35.4%). Yemen remains at 2.1%, underlining that high funding and political will cannot substitute for basic conditions of safety and state functionality in countries of origin.

Voluntary return programmes, often supported with reintegration funding, are widely promoted as a more humane alternative to forced deportations. Yet the boundary between the two is often blurred: migrants may opt for “voluntary” return after receiving a return order, facing detention, or losing access to legal stay. Assisted return is rarely a pre-planned choice for migrants – it is mostly a last resort.

The answers

We make three recommendations. First, measure the quality of returns, including the sustainability and safety of reintegration. Understanding returnees’ experiences can help ensure that return policies do not lead to renewed displacement or onward migration.

To support this, reintegration programmes should adopt standardised indicators covering areas such as housing, income, access to healthcare, education, legal status, and overall well-being. Outcomes should be monitored over the longer term, and onward migration or re-displacement tracked as indicators of policy failure.

Second, prioritise targeted migration diplomacy over broad financial packages. Sustained engagement with specific partners can produce more lasting outcomes than broad financial packages. At the same time, migrant rights and international protection standards must be upheld.

Third, expand investment in legal labour migration pathways, like schemes that match training in countries of origin with labour shortages in the EU.

The EU should increase dedicated funding, streamline recognitions and visa processes and provide incentives for stronger private sector engagement.

Qualified migrants could then work legally and support economic development in both origin and destination countries.

Migration cooperation is ultimately political. Enforcement tools are not effective if there is no political cooperation.

– Europe is spending billions on deporting migrants. Why the strategy isn’t working
– https://theconversation.com/europe-is-spending-billions-on-deporting-migrants-why-the-strategy-isnt-working-282741

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Cultural bias in west Africa’s school-leaver exam questions puts many students at a disadvantage

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By David Baidoo-Anu, Assistant Professor, Frazer Faculty of Education, Ontario Tech University

The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is a high-stakes test. For decades, it has served as the gateway to post-secondary education across five countries: Ghana, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Liberia and The Gambia. But is it fair?

David Baidoo-Anu and Monsurat Raji say their research shows that cultural bias in exam questions can put students at a disadvantage. This happens through language, contexts and examples. It raises questions about what counts as “ability” in standardised testing.

Why do students in the five countries write the same exam?

The exam is administered by the West African Examinations Council. This was established in 1952 during the colonial era to oversee standardised examinations across British West Africa.

The original aim was to coordinate administration across the region. Universities and employers would be able to interpret and compare qualifications consistently. For their part, students could follow opportunities across borders.

Although the examination system has changed over time, it still has a regional structure. It remains deeply tied to university admissions, employment screening and cross-border recognition of qualifications.

Why is this a problem?

The problem is not simply that students across five countries write a similar exam. The deeper concern is that some questions are not culturally responsive. That is, they do not always reflect students’ language backgrounds, cultural references or everyday experiences. Students are not all familiar with particular examples.

Exam questions use language, names, places, stories, images, objects and examples to help students understand what is being asked. These are important features of a quality and equitable assessment. When those features are unfamiliar to a student, a question may become harder to understand. It’s not that students lack ability, but the context of the question does not reflect their experiences.

Our research argues that assessment systems must pay closer attention to this. The language, examples, images and scenarios used in exam questions should be meaningful, fair and responsive to learners’ realities.

Guided by a framework for test design that takes cultural experience into account, we analysed available mathematics, English language and science exam questions from 2019 to 2021 in Ghana and Nigeria. We looked at how the language, contexts, names, images, examples and representations used in test items reflected learners’ societies and cultures. The analysis included characters, places, situations, events and stories used in questions.

What are the differences that matter?

Students don’t interpret questions in a vacuum. They make sense of assessment tasks through their own lived experiences, languages, cultural knowledge and ways of knowing.

Our analysis of the exam questions revealed several concerns. Some questions assumed familiarity with cultural references, examples and experiences that may not be shared by all across the region. One major finding was that many exam contexts and character names reflected mostly western experiences and identities, rather than African ones. Some English language questions, for example, used unfamiliar western names, settings and literary contexts.

The study also found that some mathematics and science questions relied heavily on complex technical language. There was not enough visual support. This could be a problem for students who may understand the content, but struggle with interpreting the language used.

In several instances, the questions referenced objects, situations, or experiences that may not have been familiar or culturally relevant to African learners, potentially affecting their interpretation and responses.

Another key finding was that images, diagrams and abstract representations were sometimes used without adequate explanations. In some cases, there were no visuals that could have improved students’ understanding of questions. In other cases diagrams lacked sufficient contextual explanation.

Why is the exam so important?

Exam results determine access to universities, scholarships, jobs and future social mobility.

In Ghana, for example, students who don’t get the required grades can’t go on to postsecondary education. Some spend years rewriting the exam. Institutions like the Ghana Immigration Service, Ghana Police Service and Ghana Armed Forces require job applicants to pass core subjects such as English and mathematics. The exam is not only a school-leaving certificate, it is also a gateway to formal employment and national service careers.

Reports from Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics indicate that the performance of candidates in the exam is generally poor. In 2020 only 36.4% of North-East candidates passed. In 2019, only 47.4% of North-West candidates passed.

The high-stakes nature of examinations has consequences for teaching and learning too. Teachers feel pressured to teach primarily for exam performance rather than for deep understanding or meaningful learning.

Examinations that aren’t socioculturally responsive can make existing inequalities even more pronounced.

What solution do you propose?

We don’t argue that west Africa should abandon regional exams or standardised assessments altogether. Rather, we argue that assessment systems should become more responsive to the students’ societies and cultures. They need to be more equitable.

Equitable examination isn’t simply about giving every student exactly the same examination. It should give all students fair opportunities to understand what’s expected of them and to demonstrate what they know.

We propose that examination developers pay greater attention to students’ languages, lived experiences, cultural contexts and ways of making meaning.

Practically, this means:

  • using clearer and more accessible language in questions

  • including visuals and representations

  • using culturally relevant and locally meaningful examples

  • reviewing examination items for cultural bias

  • involving educators, students, linguists and local communities from different regions in the design and review of assessment items.

This approach does not weaken standards. Rather, it strengthens the validity and fairness of assessment. It would measure students’ actual knowledge and abilities rather than their familiarity with dominant cultural norms or linguistic conventions.

We also propose that examination bodies involve communities throughout the process of developing tests.

How does your solution address differences between countries in the region?

This approach keeps the regional examination system but is more sensitive to national and local realities. The participating countries share some educational histories, but they differ in language use, cultural practices, school resources, rural and urban experiences, and everyday examples familiar to students.

A socioculturally responsive approach would require examination bodies to review whether the language, images, examples and scenarios used in questions are meaningful across these different contexts.

– Cultural bias in west Africa’s school-leaver exam questions puts many students at a disadvantage
– https://theconversation.com/cultural-bias-in-west-africas-school-leaver-exam-questions-puts-many-students-at-a-disadvantage-283154

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Global supply chains keep workers poor: three case studies show how the cycle can be broken

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Annika Surmeier, Senior Lecturer, Graduate School of Business, University of Cape Town, University of Cape Town

Globally, about one in five people in jobs live in poverty. A key reason lies in how global supply chains are organised. From agriculture to tourism, many jobs are embedded in systems that keep wages low, even as they generate value for international markets.

This has brought renewed urgency to the living wage debate. In 2024, the International Labour Organisation (ILO) formally endorsed general principles for defining and calculating living wages across different national contexts, including guidance on wage-setting and implementation. Living wages are pay for work that is high enough for the worker and their family to sustain a decent life.

We are researchers working on living wages, labour conditions and sustainable livelihoods, including those in global value chains in Africa. We argue that the growing recognition of living wages shifts the question from whether workers should earn enough to live on to how to make it happen.

But turning this idea into reality is far from straightforward. Our recent article, based on evidence from Africa, shows that some well-intentioned efforts to raise wages can backfire, while alternative approaches tailored to the local context are beginning to show more promise.

Our research is focused on socially innovative organisations in Africa. It shows that change is possible. But only if the focus shifts beyond compliance in the form of tick-box approaches and policing, and instead fosters collaboration between buyers, suppliers, workers and other actors across the value chain. This also requires moves away from constant cost-cutting through low wages and precarious work and towards supply chains that support sustainable livelihoods.

Why workers in global supply chains earn so little

Our research has analysed living wages, labour conditions and social innovation across supply chains in sectors including agriculture and tourism. It showed that global supply chains often place suppliers and workers under intense pressure to reduce costs. This is because today’s global economy is organised through complex supply chains that stretch across countries. Products like fruit, coffee or clothing are often produced in lower-income countries and sold in wealthier markets.

Read more: Ghana’s cocoa farmers are trapped by the chocolate industry

These systems create efficiencies and economic opportunities. But they also concentrate power in the hands of large multinational buyers, such as supermarkets or global brands. These companies typically control pricing, standards and purchasing conditions.

As a result, lead companies capture most of the value, while suppliers – and especially workers – receive a much smaller share. In some industries, producers capture only a fraction of the final retail price. To remain competitive, suppliers are under constant pressure to reduce costs.

In this environment, wages are often treated as a flexible expense. This can lead to a “race to the bottom”, where countries and companies compete by keeping labour costs low.

When good intentions go wrong

Our research shows that over the past two decades, many governments and companies along supply chains have tried to improve working conditions through standards and certification schemes. These include specific requirements related to labour conditions, health and safety, and sometimes living wages. But such compliance-based approaches can fail to deliver better outcomes – and can even make matters worse.

Read more: Technology and supermarket chains can help strengthen southern Africa’s food systems

South Africa’s fruit export industry offers a telling example. Supermarkets in Great Britain and Europe impose strict quality and labour standards on fruit producers. At the same time, they push for low prices and high volumes. To be able to meet these standards, farmers face higher costs, but without higher payments from buyers. Many respond by cutting labour costs: replacing permanent workers with seasonal ones, increasing workloads, or reducing benefits. As a result, standards that were designed to improve labour conditions end up contributing to more precarious work.

What works better: collaboration, not just compliance

If standards-driven approaches are not enough, what does work?

We analysed examples in depth through case studies. The cases presented here focus on inclusive tourism in South Africa, speciality coffee in Uganda, and chilli farming in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. We found that these more collaborative and locally grounded approaches can make a difference to workers’ livelihoods.

Our first example is Nando’s PERi Farms initiative. The restaurant group works with smallholder chilli farmers in Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, providing technical support, access to inputs and guaranteed purchase agreements. This has helped farmers increase their incomes and invest in education and housing.

Mountain Harvest, a social enterprise in Uganda, focuses on coffee. The organisation works directly with farmers and pays higher prices for coffee beans to improve farmers’ lives. The company also supports farmers’ income diversification through crops like macadamia and avocado. An in-depth understanding of the local coffee farming context has allowed Mountain Harvest to improve conditions specifically for women employed seasonally as coffee bean sorters, a group who are often overlooked in supply chains.

In South Africa’s tourism sector, the NGO Fair Trade in Tourism has developed a certification standard that goes beyond compliance. It combines living wage requirements with mentoring, peer learning and support to strengthen businesses. We found that participating businesses reported better working conditions, higher staff retention and improved service quality.

Why these approaches succeed

All three examples share key features. First, they recognise that wages cannot be increased in isolation. Higher wages require changes in how value is distributed along the supply chain – including fairer prices paid to suppliers.

Second, they rely on long-term relationships rather than short-term transactions. Stable partnerships give suppliers the confidence to invest in their workforce.

Third, they involve collaboration across businesses, non-profit organisations and local actors. This grounds interventions in local realities.

Finally, they treat workers not just as a cost, but as humans who make important contributions to the quality and sustainability of the business.

What needs to change

Achieving living wages will require more than standards or regulations.

Companies need to rethink their sourcing practices, including how they set prices and manage supplier relationships. Governments and international companies must ensure that labour standards are supported not just by enforcement and fair trade conditions but through collaboration. And consumers, too, play a role in supporting businesses that prioritise fair wages.

– Global supply chains keep workers poor: three case studies show how the cycle can be broken
– https://theconversation.com/global-supply-chains-keep-workers-poor-three-case-studies-show-how-the-cycle-can-be-broken-283806

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President outlines economic recovery plan as global tensions threaten growth

Source: Government of South Africa

President outlines economic recovery plan as global tensions threaten growth

President Cyril Ramaphosa says government will intensify efforts to grow the economy, create jobs and attract investment, despite growing global uncertainties that threaten South Africa’s economic recovery.

Delivering the Presidency Budget Vote in the National Assembly on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said the Presidency remains focused on driving inclusive growth and job creation, reducing poverty and the cost of living, and building a capable and ethical State.

The President said South Africa’s economic outlook has improved following years of challenges.

“Following years of challenges, our economy is on the mend. The macroeconomic environment has improved, tax collection revenues remain strong, public finances are in better shape and national debt has stabilised,” President Ramaphosa told Parliament.

He highlighted recent improvements in South Africa’s international credit outlook, noting that ratings agency Moody’s recently upgraded the country’s outlook from stable to positive, while S&P had lifted South Africa’s credit rating for the first time in two decades. 

President Ramaphosa said the Presidency continues to coordinate the national investment drive and has secured substantial commitments through the South Africa Investment Conference.

“In March, we held a successful 6th South Africa Investment Conference, where we secured pledges in excess of R890 billion in industries across the economy,” he said. 

He welcomed the strong participation of domestic investors.

“Significantly, a substantial portion of investment commitments were from domestic investors. When local investors show confidence in the prospects of the economy, international investors follow suit,” he said.

President Ramaphosa stressed that economic growth should ultimately improve the lives of citizens. 

“Economic growth is not an end in itself. Its purpose is to create work, restore hope and expand opportunity. Every investment secured, every infrastructure project completed and every reform implemented must ultimately improve the lives of ordinary South Africans,” he said. 

The President said government had embarked on what he described as the largest infrastructure build programme in the country’s history.

“Over the next three years, the State will be investing R1 trillion in building and refurbishing roads, dams, schools, hospitals and clinics, as well as energy, logistics and transportation infrastructure,” the President said. 

Government is also working to protect jobs in distressed sectors, including the automotive, cement and steel industries, while expanding export markets for South African products.

President Ramaphosa pointed to improvements in energy security as one of government’s major achievements.

“Through the National Energy Crisis Committee – and thanks to the efforts of Eskom, government departments and social partners – the country has recorded more than a year without load shedding,” the President said.  

He said Eskom has returned to financial and operational viability and that additional electricity generation capacity continues to be added to the national grid.

The President also cited improvements in logistics through reforms at Transnet, saying better performance at ports and on rail networks is helping to ease bottlenecks affecting mining, agriculture and manufacturing.

Agriculture remains a key growth sector, he said.

“For example, between January and March this year, agriculture recorded an 11% increase in export earnings, compared to the same period last year,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa further announced a major land reform initiative aimed at strengthening the position of black farmers.

“As part of our efforts to revitalise rural economies, to strengthen land rights and support the inclusion of black farmers in commercial agriculture, we have embarked on a concerted programme to release this land with title deeds to deserving beneficiaries,” he said.

He added that the Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development would provide details of plans to convert agricultural leases into title deeds. 

Tourism on the rise

Tourism is also showing strong growth, with South Africa recording 10.5 million international tourist arrivals last year, the highest on record.

However, the President warned that escalating conflict in the Middle East could undermine economic gains.

“The attack by the United States and Israel on Iran – and the conflict that has now engulfed much of the region – has set off a global oil crisis,” President Ramaphosa said. 

He said rising oil and fertiliser prices were likely to place pressure on inflation and increase the cost of living. 

“The effects of the surge in oil prices – and of other critical supplies like fertiliser – are likely to undermine much of the progress we had made in bringing down inflation and the cost of living,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa cautioned that economic conditions were likely to remain difficult in the short-term, particularly as recent labour market data shows a decline in employment.

“We know from experience that it often takes time for investment to translate into economic growth, and for growth to translate into jobs. But we must still be deeply concerned about the decline in employment, because it is about people’s lives and livelihoods,” he said. 

The President said these challenges underscore the urgency of implementing government’s economic reform agenda and accelerating measures aimed at creating jobs and stimulating growth. – SAnews.gov.za

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Rasha Kelej together with Kenya First Lady support the education of 47 Kenyan Schoolgirls by providing Annual Scholarships till they Graduate

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their Educating Linda program in Kenya in partnership with The First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” at the Kenya State House. The program was chaired by Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej and The First Lady of Kenya, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H..

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign said, “I am very happy to meet my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, and officially launch our Educating Linda program in the country, to support girl education.

As a part of Educating Linda, we are providing annual scholarships to 47 deserving, high performing, yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, till they finish their education. This will ensure they are not forced to abandon their education due to financial hardship. We truly believe that an educated girl transforms the entire community.”

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., First Lady of Kenya & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, expressed, “I deeply appreciate all the programs of Merck Foundation including the Educating Linda program, through which we are providing annual scholarships to our 47 deserving schoolgirls to support their education until they graduate. We believe that every girl in Kenya, and across Africa, deserves the opportunity to pursue her dreams. Every barrier that prevents a girl from going to school must be dismantled, and this program is one powerful means of doing exactly that. I am confident these young girls will reach their full potential and go on to inspire many others.”

During the program, the Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with the First Lady of Kenya, took the opportunity to meet and encourage the Kenyan schoolgirls who are the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program, and to hear directly from them and their parents about the impact the scholarships have had on their lives.

The Educating Linda program by Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies, is providing annual scholarships to more than 1,250 schoolgirls across 21 African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and others. The program also ensures that thousands of schoolgirls across Africa receive essential school supplies, removing further practical obstacles to their education.

“When a girl is educated, entire nation is empowered. Educated girls grow into empowered women, who drive prosperity, strengthen families, and advance nations. That is the vision behind everything we do: Girl Education today for Women Empowerment tomorrow,” said Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation together has provided 328 scholarships for Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties; including Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology, Oncology, Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Medicine, Gastroenterology, Psychiatry, Neurology, and many more. During the visit, Merck Foundation also conducted their Alumni Summit 2026, to acknowledge and meet their Alumni. Moreover, they also met and recognized the Merck Foundation Awards Winners of 2024 and 2025.

Merck Foundation in partnership with the First Lady of Kenya is also launching children’s storybooks: “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar Free Jude” and “Mark’s Pressure”. These storybooks address critical social and health issues and will be available in both English and Swahili. Thousands of copies of these storybooks will be distributed to schoolchildren across Kenya.

Merck Foundation and the First Lady of Kenya also annually launch their 8 important awards for best media, film, fashion designs and songs. Together they have also conducted several editions of Merck Foundation Health Media Training Program, enabling Kenyan journalists to be equipped to be the voice of the voiceless and report responsibly and effectively on sensitive subjects including infertility, child marriage, gender-based violence, diabetes, and hypertension.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

Apply here: https://apo-opa.co/49Ce8cx

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to:

submit@merck-foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4dLbJP6

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website. Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4fht7w9), X (https://apo-opa.co/4uMTGhC), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4dJPyJ7), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4g0EwAy), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4uarELW) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4dTCTSD).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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Bafana Bafana arrive in Mexico 

Source: Government of South Africa

Bafana Bafana arrive in Mexico 

South Africa’s national’s men’s soccer team Bafana Bafana have arrived in Mexico ahead of the start of the FIFA Soccer World Cup next week.

Their safe arrival was announced in a post on social media platform, X, on Tuesday.

The team departed for the tournament on Monday after visas were secured for all the players on Sunday, 31 May.

“The South African Football Association (SAFA) held an Emergency Committee Meeting on Sunday night, 31 May, where a number of issues around the South African senior men’s national team’s delayed travel plans to Mexico were discussed by the members,” the association said in a statement on Monday.

At the meeting, it was revealed that four members of the camp had outstanding visas for the North American trip.

“To strengthen operational coordination during the FIFA World Cup, SAFA can further reveal that a three-member organising committee has been established to manage the team’s administrative affairs during the 2026 FIFA World Cup comprising of Bafana Bafana Head of Delegation (HOD) David Molwantwa, SAFA Chairperson of the Finance Committee Mxolisi Sibam, together with the Team Manager Vincent Tseka.” 

The three will work together in ensuring that any logistical or administrative matters that may arise during the global tournament are dealt with expeditiously. 

“While the visa delays resulted in the team losing a valuable day in its travel and preparation schedule, SAFA is satisfied that the matter has now been substantially resolved and that the team’s World Cup plans remain firmly on course,” SAFA said at the time.

In addition, SAFA also apologised to the nation for the unexpected travel delays and thanked the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) for their assistance, as well as the US Consulate in Johannesburg, which went beyond the call of duty over the weekend to ensure that the visas were issued for all  players to travel.

This year’s FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States of America, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July 2026.

In his weekly newsletter on Monday, President Cyril Ramaphosa called on South Africans to unite behind Bafana Bafana as the national men’s football team prepares to make its long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup.

READ | Call to rally behind Bafana Bafana

“I call on all South Africans to rally behind our team and show their support. Let us wear the team colours and fly the flag,” said the President. – SAnews.gov.za

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SIU uncovers maladministration in awarding of Free State bursaries

Source: Government of South Africa

SIU uncovers maladministration in awarding of Free State bursaries

An investigation into the affairs of the Office of the Premier in the Free State has uncovered serious maladministration and the awarding of bursaries to foreign nationals, relatives and a deceased student.

Acting Head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) Leonard Lekgetho said the investigation was initiated following a referral from the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) concerning irregularities.

Addressing the media in Pretoria on Tuesday, Lekgetho said the AGSA’s reports from 2019 and 2020 revealed serious irregularities in the management of bursaries and funds intended to educate and uplift youth in the Free State.

The awarding of the bursaries in question took place during Ace Magashule’s tenure as Premier. The investigation was authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa under Proclamation 123 of 2023.

“The SIU’s investigation revealed that officials approved bursaries negligently, failed to comply with the eligibility criteria, and irregularly extended bursary contracts,” Lekgetho said.

Lekgetho said the investigation confirmed that a deceased student had received bursaries from both Office of the Premier and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

“The Office of the Premier paid R34 891.60 to the University of the Free State, which deposited the money into a suspense account after the student’s death. NSFAS also paid R13 000 into the student’s bank account, which his parents used. 

“Since the student had died before completing his studies, the funds could not be recovered, especially since the proclamation did not cover NSFAS. The parents also lack the means to pay back the money.

“The SIU identified the officials who approved the bursary and extension, resulting in the payment of R34 891.60, as well as funding courses the student failed to complete, resulting in breach of contractual and policy obligations,” Lekgetho said.

The investigation also showed that seven students who received the bursary were foreign nationals, with six students then funded on a merit basis as top achievers.

However, the SIU found no approval to deviate from the policy, which specifies that bursaries are for South African citizens residing in the Free State, and this resulted in an expenditure of R576 734.48.

According to Lekgetho, in total, an amount of R8.3 million was spent, benefiting 161 students and 16 officials from various government departments. 

Lekgetho said the SIU has made 38 disciplinary referrals against the implicated officials, including human resources officials, administration clerks, Assistant, Deputy Directors and Directors.

The unit also uncovered that in one instance, a degree that was supposed to be finalised in three years ended up being finalised in seven years, and throughout these years, the bursary was awarded. 

In their investigations, the SIU uncovered that an official awarded bursaries to relatives without following due process. 

In some cases, the Office of the Premier awarded bursaries to applicants for qualifications not included in the 2018-19 Provincial Workplace Skills Plan.

The SIU said it had signed 18 acknowledgements of debt totalling R1.9 million with individuals who received undue benefits from the bursary scheme.  

Free State Premier Maqueen Letsoha-Mathae welcomed the investigation and committed her administration to supporting the SIU investigations.

“Our objective is to ensure that eligibility requirements, approval, and oversight mechanisms are clearly defined and consistently applied,” she said.

She said the disciplinary process for the eight employees involved in these irregularities would be executed. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Minister Meth defends push to prioritise South Africans for jobs

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister Meth defends push to prioritise South Africans for jobs

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth says government is strengthening labour market enforcement and labour migration reforms to ensure South Africans are prioritised for employment opportunities, while maintaining a lawful and fair migration system.

Speaking during a Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) Deep Dive Media Engagement, Meth said government’s labour market reforms are intended to address high unemployment levels and tackle unlawful employment practices.

“These reforms are intended to strengthen labour market governance, improve the regulation of employment services, [and] protect labour standards,” she said.

The reforms include implementation of the National Labour Migration Policy and the Employment Services Amendment Bill, which seeks to strengthen enforcement powers available to labour inspectors.

Meth said the measures are designed to strike a balance between protecting opportunities for South Africans and meeting the economy’s demand for scarce and critical skills.

“They seek to strike an appropriate balance between safeguarding employment opportunities for South Africans and meeting the economy’s demand for critical skills,” she said. 

A key focus of the reforms is strengthening enforcement against the employment of undocumented foreign nationals.

“It is important for employers to be deliberate in utilizing ESSA [Employment Services South Africa]  to recruit South Africans, and in abiding with the law to prioritise South Africans and employ those who are legally in South Africa from other countries,” the Minister said.

Meth rejected claims that South Africans are unwilling to work, arguing that the real challenge is a shortage of employment opportunities.

“We must firmly reject the narrative that South Africans are unwilling to work.

“Millions of South Africans wake up every day in search of work, eager to contribute their skills, earn a living and support their families,” the minister said. 

Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya echoed the sentiment, saying employers should stop favouring undocumented foreign nationals.

“There is nothing like South Africans do not want to work, we must stop that notion,” he said. 

Sibiya warned that tougher penalties are on the way for employers who violate labour and immigration laws.

“Our fines are going to be harsher going forward for employers who are non-compliant. Non-compliance is very expensive. You can’t prioritise illegal immigrants because you want to exploit them,” he said. 

According to the department, the Employment Services Amendment Bill will introduce stronger enforcement mechanisms and fines of up to R100 000 for non-compliance.

The Deputy Minister said inspections have already uncovered widespread violations in sectors such as hospitality and construction.

“We’ve been going big on construction,” he said.

He revealed that labour inspections recently identified 79 undocumented foreign nationals on a single construction site in the Western Cape.

“We are going big on them, but we are going to engage as well with the construction sector, as we are doing with hospitality,” Sibiya said. 

At the same time, government says it remains committed to ensuring labour migration is managed in a lawful and developmental manner.

Acting Deputy Director-General Thembinkosi Mkalipi explained that the National Labour Migration Policy does not exclude the informal sector and forms part of a broader package of reforms being implemented across government.

He said government is also working with companies operating in platform and delivery services to improve opportunities for South Africans.

Mkalipi pointed to partnerships with delivery and e-hailing companies that have resulted in greater employment opportunities for local workers.

“The Minister talked about this perception that South Africans don’t like certain jobs, which is not true,” Mkalipi said. 

The labour migration reforms form part of government’s wider strategy to improve labour market governance while addressing unemployment and protecting labour standards.

Meth said government’s objective is to create a labour market that is fair, orderly and supportive of inclusive economic growth.

“Collectively, these measures will contribute to a more orderly, equitable, and effective labor market that protects workers, supports employers, and advances inclusive economic growth.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Afreximbank renforce son engagement en faveur des progrès économiques aux Bahamas

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a organisé une tournée de présentation de haut niveau à Nassau, aux Bahamas, le 29 mai, afin d’approfondir son partenariat avec les principaux acteurs et entreprises des secteurs public, privé et financier du pays.

Organisée dans le cadre de la stratégie globale de la Banque visant à renforcer le commerce, l’investissement et la coopération économique entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes, cette tournée, placée sous le thème « Investir dans le progrès grâce à la mise en œuvre du mandat d’Afreximbank aux Bahamas », s’est appuyée sur les réalisations actuelles de la Banque et des Bahamas pour explorer de nouvelles opportunités de prospérité partagée.

Cette tournée de présentation fait suite à l’approbation par le Conseil d’administration d’Afreximbank d’une facilité de financement pouvant atteindre 5 milliards de dollars US pour la région des Caraïbes, y compris les Bahamas. Cette approbation témoigne de l’engagement d’Afreximbank à promouvoir les objectifs du programme Global Africa (Afrique mondiale) en renforçant les liens commerciaux et financiers entre l’Afrique et les Caraïbes.

L’événement, présidé par l’honorable Philip Davis, Premier ministre des Bahamas, et auquel ont participé de nombreux acteurs du monde des affaires bahaméen, a permis à Afreximbank de présenter sa gamme de solutions de financement, de conseil et de facilitation du commerce destinées aux entreprises et aux institutions des Bahamas et de renforcer les partenariats institutionnels.

Lors de la tournée de présentation, le Premier ministre a déclaré : « La croissance économique doit se traduire par une participation économique plus large, afin de garantir à un plus grand nombre de Bahaméens la possibilité de créer des entreprises, des emplois et de tirer profit des progrès du pays. Nous avons réalisé des avancées dans ce domaine, mais le renforcement de l’accès au capital par le biais d’institutions telles qu’Afreximbank demeure un élément essentiel de nos efforts continus ».

« Cette tournée de présentation nous rappelle également l’importance de la coopération régionale et internationale à un moment où de nombreuses économies traversent une période d’incertitudes », a-t-il ajouté.

Dans son discours d’ouverture, M. Ihejirika a déclaré : « En moins de trois ans d’activité au sein de la CARICOM, Afreximbank a démontré un engagement fort en faveur du développement économique de la région, et plus particulièrement des Bahamas, en soutenant des projets clés dans des secteurs essentiels. À ce jour, la Banque a facilité le financement d’infrastructures à hauteur d’environ 140 millions de dollars US par le biais de partenariats public-privé (PPP), et a également accordé 30 millions de dollars US de soutien au secteur des petites et moyennes entreprises (PME). Ces investissements soulignent la mission d’Afreximbank, qui est de stimuler une croissance durable, de renforcer la résilience économique et d’offrir davantage d’opportunités aux entreprises et aux collectivités des Bahamas ».

Parmi les autres intervenants de marque présents à l’événement figuraient l’honorable Michael B. Halkitis, Ministre des Finances, l’honorable Ginger M. Moxey, Ministre de Grand Bahama, M. Atario Mitchell, Président du Bahamas Stripping Group of Companies, et M. Kino Simmons, Directeur général de CAT Island Development Company.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable des communications et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2025, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 48,5 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 8,4 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A par GCR, A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et Baa2 par Moody’s. Moody’s (Baa2). Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

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Assemblées annuelles 2026 : les gouverneurs soutiennent les solutions de plateforme de la Banque pour transformer l’aviation et les systèmes de santé en Afrique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

  • Le Japon apporte 10 millions de dollars américains en faveur de l’IATP.
  • Les participants ont appelé à une forte appropriation nationale, à l’alignement des partenaires et à une discipline d’exécution visible.
  • Une meilleure connectivité aérienne peut renforcer les chaînes d’approvisionnement, y compris en médicaments, vaccins, équipements médicaux et personnels de santé.
  • Les gouverneurs et partenaires ont salué l’approche de la Banque visant à transformer des priorités continentales en plateformes finançables et déployables.

Les gouverneurs du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement (www.AfDB.org), les partenaires techniques et financiers, représentants du secteur privé, fondations philanthropiques et investisseurs ont exprimé leur fort soutien à la nouvelle approche de solutions de plateforme du Groupe de la Banque visant à accélérer la transformation de l’Afrique dans la santé et l’aviation.

En marge de ses Assemblées annuelles 2026, le 28 mai à Brazzaville, le Groupe de la Banque a présenté à ces acteurs essentiels, deux applications concrètes de cette approche : le Programme intégré de transformation de l’aviation en Afrique (IATP) et la Facilité africaine pour les médicaments et équipements médicaux (AMEF), conçus pour mobiliser davantage de capitaux, réduire les risques et répondre à des défis continentaux majeurs.

La rencontre organisée sur le thème :« Solutions de plateforme pour la transformation de l’Afrique : réduction des risques dans les secteurs de l’aviation et des systèmes de santé grâce à des financements innovants », a permis aux participants d’apprécier l’approche du Groupe de la Banque, qui reflète l’évolution du rôle des banques multilatérales de développement : passer du financement projet par projet à la création de plateformes capables d’agréger des partenaires, d’attirer des capitaux et de produire des résultats à l’échelle des défis du continent.

Ainsi, la Banque a présenté l’IATP et l’AMEF non seulement comme deux initiatives complémentaires, mais surtout comme deux applications d’une même architecture financière : l’une visant à renforcer la connectivité aérienne, les chaînes logistiques et l’intégration régionale ; l’autre à sécuriser l’accès aux médicaments, aux vaccins et aux équipements médicaux essentiels.

« Nous avons besoin de médicaments de bonne qualité, conformes aux normes internationales. L’Afrique a également besoin de compagnies capables de connecter l’ensemble du continent, de renforcer l’intégration régionale et de soutenir la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) », a déclaré le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement, Dr Sidi Ould Tah, en ouvrant les échanges.

Dans le secteur aérien, l’IATP vise à soutenir la modernisation des flottes, l’amélioration des infrastructures, le renforcement de la logistique et l’intégration du marché africain du transport aérien. Le Groupe de la Banque entend mobiliser sept milliards de dollars américains au cours des cinq prochaines années afin de contribuer à libérer le potentiel de l’aviation africaine, en partenariat avec les États africains, l’Union africaine, les partenaires du développement, le secteur privé, les banques et investisseurs, les avionneurs, les sociétés de leasing, les compagnies aériennes, entre autres.

Dans le secteur de la santé, l’AMEF vise à appuyer des mécanismes d’approvisionnement plus stables et mieux coordonnés afin d’améliorer l’accès durable aux produits de santé de qualité.

Selon le directeur du Département du secteur privé de la Banque africaine de développement, Ousmane Fall, l’Afrique fabrique seulement 1 % des médicaments dont elle a besoin et environ 0,5 % de ses vaccins. Seuls 40 % des médicaments essentiels sont disponibles à temps pour les populations, tandis que les délais d’accès peuvent aller de trois à neuf mois. Dans le secteur aérien, a ajouté son collègue Mike Salawou, directeur du Département des infrastructures et du développement urbain, seulement 19 % des vols sont opérés en Afrique par des compagnies régionales ou nationales africaines, et le manque à gagner lié au déficit du transport aérien est estimé entre 50 et 100 milliards de dollars par an.

La plateforme proposée par le Groupe de la Banque s’appuie sur une collaboration entre gouvernements, institutions de financement du développement, partenaires philanthropiques, fournisseurs et investisseurs afin de mobiliser des financements adaptés, renforcer la transparence et améliorer la soutenabilité financière des systèmes d’approvisionnement.

Un appui de haut niveau pour passer de la conception à la mise en œuvre

Les interventions des participants ont convergé autour d’un message clair : les deux plateformes doivent désormais avancer vers la mise en œuvre, avec une forte appropriation nationale, des partenaires alignés et un suivi régulier des résultats.

Plusieurs intervenants ont souligné que la réussite des deux plateformes dépendrait de la capacité à maintenir une coalition large associant États, banques multilatérales de développement, investisseurs institutionnels, fondations philanthropiques et acteurs du secteur privé autour d’objectifs communs et mesurables.

« La réduction des risques est le plus grand défi, a souligné Abdourahmane Sarr, ministre de l’Économie, du Plan et de la Coopération du Sénégal. C’est là que le Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement peut jouer un rôle catalyseur en faisant profiter de sa notation triple A. »

La gouverneure suppléante du Groupe de la Banque pour la Tanzanie, Dr Natu El Maamry Mwamba, secrétaire permanente au Trésor, a salué le modèle financier proposé pour les deux initiatives, rappelant qu’une garantie de la Banque avait permis à son pays de mobiliser, en quelques mois, la moitié du 1,2 milliard de dollars nécessaire à son projet de chemin de fer à écartement standard.

« Le Cameroun soutient ces deux initiatives qui permettront de prendre en charge des besoins cruciaux pour nos populations et de renforcer la mise en œuvre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine », a déclaré Alamine Ousmane Mey, ministre de l’Économie, de la Planification et de l’Aménagement du territoire du Cameroun.

Dix millions de dollars du Japon pour l’IATP

Les participants ont insisté sur l’importance d’une coordination étroite des différents acteurs afin de garantir des résultats concrets, mesurables et visibles pour les populations.

Se félicitant de l’approche du Groupe de la Banque, le Japon a annoncé un appui de dix millions de dollars en faveur de la Facilité de partage du risque du Programme intégré de transformation de l’aviation en Afrique (IATP) afin de réduire les risques du financement des flottes par les compagnies aériennes africaines. Cette annonce constitue un signal important de confiance des partenaires dans l’ambition de moderniser le transport aérien africain, de renforcer les liaisons régionales et d’appuyer l’intégration économique du continent. Cette contribution devrait soutenir la phase initiale de mise en œuvre de la plateforme et renforcer sa capacité à mobiliser des financements complémentaires, a déclaré M. Salawou.

« Il s’agit de construire une plateforme continentale de connectivité capable de relier les marchés, de renforcer les chaînes de valeur régionales et de soutenir la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. Dans un contexte marqué par des risques sanitaires, climatiques et géopolitiques croissants, la connectivité devient également un enjeu de résilience. Les avions transportent des passagers, mais aussi des médicaments, des vaccins, des équipements stratégiques et des opportunités économiques. En mobilisant davantage de capitaux, en réduisant les risques et en renforçant les partenariats, l’IATP contribue à transformer l’aviation en levier d’intégration, de compétitivité et de prospérité pour l’Afrique », a-t-il ajouté.

Le ministre Ismael Nabé, gouverneur de la Banque pour la Guinée, a souligné l’importance de la mutualisation des efforts afin d’éviter une fragmentation qui limite l’émergence de grandes compagnies africaines. Le ministre fédéral de l’aviation du Nigéria, Festus Keyamo, a appelé à développer davantage les solutions de leasing dans le secteur aérien, annonçant la signature avec la Banque du premier Pacte national du Programme intégré de transformation de l’aviation en Afrique.

Au-delà de l’aviation et de la santé, les échanges ont mis en évidence le potentiel des solutions de plateforme comme nouvel instrument de transformation du continent. « Les populations ont besoin de pouvoir accéder rapidement aux médicaments, aux vaccins, aux biens essentiels et aux opportunités économiques. Cela exige des chaînes logistiques performantes, des infrastructures de connectivité efficaces et des mécanismes de financement capables d’intervenir à l’échelle des défis du continent. Les solutions de plateforme constituent une évolution importante de la manière dont nous abordons le développement : elles permettent de transformer des priorités africaines en programmes finançables, déployables et mesurables, tout en renforçant l’intégration régionale, la résilience et la capacité de l’Afrique à façonner son propre avenir », a souligné le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement.

Cette approche s’inscrit pleinement dans la vision portée par le président du Groupe de la Banque africaine de développement visant à renforcer le rôle de l’institution comme plateforme de mobilisation de capitaux pour l’Afrique et à contribuer à l’émergence d’une Nouvelle architecture financière africaine pour le développement capable de soutenir une croissance plus intégrée, plus résiliente et plus inclusive.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Contact médias :
Romaric Ollo Hien
Département de la communication et des relations extérieures
media@afdb.org

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