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Address by the Commander-in-Chief President Cyril Ramaphosa at Armed Forces Day

Source: President of South Africa –

Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Ms Angie Motshekga,
Deputy Ministers of Defence and Military Veterans,
Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba,
Acting Secretary for Defence, Dr Thobekile Gamede,
Chief of the South African National Defence Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya,
The Plenary Defence Staff Council,
The Military Command,
The Executive Mayor of Vhembe District Municipality and the Mayor of Thulamela Local Municipality,
Your Majesties, Thovhele Vho-Mphaphuli and Thovhele Vho-Gole Mphaphuli, 
Traditional Leaders,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps and representatives of other countries,
Men and Women in Uniform,
Members on Parade,
Military Veterans,
Distinguished Guests,
Fellow South Africans,

I am honoured, as Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force, to address this Armed Forces Day.

We are gathered here in Vhembe District to honour our men and women in uniform, the patriotic soldiers, sailors and airmen and airwomen who for 32 years have stood in defence of our democracy.

Our armed forces reflect the diversity of the South African nation, a people of different identities and varied origins, united in our shared nationhood and common purpose.

We are united in advancing the values of our democratic Constitution and in safeguarding the fundamental rights of our country’s people.

Armed Forces Day is held at this time of year to remember the members of the Native Labour Corps who lost their lives in the sinking of the SS Mendi on the 21st of February 1917 during the First World War I.

It is recorded that they met their end not with cries of fear, but with a death dance of defiance and unity. 

The tragedy of SS Mendi reminds us of the importance of unity and solidarity, that despite great peril, those brave soldiers stood together as they faced their fate. Their courage and spirit continue to inspire us today.

Armed Forces Day honours all our soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving the Republic outside our borders and in internal operations. 

This day is a tribute to the courage of those who wear uniform, and we bow our heads in memory of those who never returned from the horizon. 

We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and comrades of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

To those who continue to serve: your sacrifices, bravery and commitment are deeply valued by a grateful nation. 

We are all aware of the recent heavy rains, devastating flooding, loss of life and damage to infrastructure in this province, in Mpumalanga and beyond. 

The SANDF brought its expertise to assist in the relief efforts, working together with local and provincial authorities: deploying engineers to support disaster management, repair roads and bridges, purify water and erect temporary structures for those affected. 

This recovery effort extended to our neighbouring country, Mozambique, where the SANDF rescued citizens from raging floodwaters.

I extend a special word of thanks to the Premiers, provincial agencies, local authorities and the SANDF members who have been on the ground in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Mozambique since the start of the devastation.

As a demonstration of its developmental capabilities, the SANDF has been active in communities in this province as part of the Armed Forces Day programme.

During this period, the South African Military Health Service’s Project Owethu provided health services to rural communities in Sekhukhune, Waterberg and Vhembe Districts.

These services have covered medical care, mental health, ophthalmology, oral health and orthopaedic care. 

Over the past week alone, more than 85 cataract procedures were conducted at Elim Hospital, restoring sight to many elderly patients. 

Furthermore, the SANDF has visited schools to instil the values of patriotism, sharing with learners the importance of national symbols, the national anthem and nationhood. 

There is also a special programme to introduce the SANDF to the youth and the general public, showcasing the exciting careers available in the Defence Force.

Armed Forces Day is a significant training and logistical exercise.

It is a real-time simulation of the SANDF’s ability to mobilise personnel and equipment across the country, modelling various threat scenarios in defence of our territorial integrity. 

What began as a day of mourning has evolved into a display of military capability and national pride. 

To our men and women in uniform: each one of you has picked up the spears of our fallen heroes and heroines. 

You are the shield that ensures our people know lasting peace, security and stability. 

You stand on the shoulders of giants: great warriors like King Makhado, the Lion of the North, and King Thohoyandou, whose leadership shaped our destiny, and of the soldiers who refused to betray the cause of freedom at the Battle of Mutale River. 

Their legacy is mirrored in the resolve of the modern SANDF.

The members of the SANDF serve in an era of great geopolitical tension. 

South Africa remains steadfast in our policy of non-alignment. 

We refuse to be drawn into the spheres of influence of competing global powers.

We assert our strategic autonomy and sovereignty.

And we conduct all our operations under strict civilian oversight and in absolute adherence to international humanitarian law.

We are called upon to adapt to new realities. 

There has been a shift on the battlefield from traditional weaponry to high-tech autonomous and unmanned systems such as drones, digital warfare and the use of artificial intelligence.

These changes require a SANDF that is responsive, relevant and agile.

Our military is having to adapt at a time when public resources are constrained.

Given the critical importance of the SANDF to our security, sovereignty and development, additional resources have been allocated from the budget.

This is a targeted intervention to close funding gaps, improve efficiencies and ensure our operational ambitions are matched by our resources. 

Having assessed our current priorities, I have decided to draw down our participation as a troop-contributing nation in the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, known as MONUSCO. 

This will be done in a phased and well-orchestrated manner to ensure the safe return of our troops and their equipment. 

As we withdraw, we pledge our continued support to continental peace and security initiatives under the UN, the African Union and SADC.

We are also mindful of the internal threats to the security and safety of our people. 

I have authorised the deployment of SANDF elements to support the South African Police Service in a targeted offensive against brazen criminality, illegal mining and ruthless gangs. 

From the Cape Flats to Gauteng, our message is clear: the rule of law will be enforced and the safety of our citizens will be secured. 

This deployment is a shield for the vulnerable, so that a child in Nyanga, Eldorado Park or New Brighton can walk to school without the shadow of a bullet haunting their steps.

To the young people present here today and watching across the country: I invite you to see the SANDF as a career and as a calling. 

We need your capabilities in engineering, medicine, technology, strategy and many other disciplines. 

Join the SANDF for the love of your country. By serving your people, you build your own future and you contribute to a better nation.

To our soldiers: continue to fly our flag high on all missions. 

Continue to guard our borders and build the bridges that connect our communities. 

You remind us that through our collective resolve as a nation, we are able to rise above any challenge we might face.

May the memory of SS Mendi and all those who served our country inspire us to work towards a brighter future for South Africa and her people.

To all the members of our armed forces, Ndi khou livhuwa.

I thank you.

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President Ramaphosa reaffirms SA’s strategic autonomy at Armed Forces Day

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa reaffirms SA’s strategic autonomy at Armed Forces Day

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s strategic autonomy and commitment to peace, saying the country will continue to assert its sovereignty amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Delivering the keynote address at Armed Forces Day at Thavhani Mall in Thohoyandou, Limpopo on Saturday, the President said members of the SANDF serve in an era of great geopolitical tension. 

“South Africa remains steadfast in our policy of non-alignment. We refuse to be drawn into the spheres of influence of competing global powers. We assert our strategic autonomy and sovereignty. And we conduct all our operations under strict civilian oversight and in absolute adherence to international humanitarian law,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa emphasised that the nation is called upon to adapt to new realities. 

“There has been a shift on the battlefield from traditional weaponry to high-tech autonomous and unmanned systems such as drones, digital warfare and the use of artificial intelligence. These changes require a SANDF that is responsive, relevant and agile,” he said. 

As Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), President Ramaphosa told dignitaries, military leadership and members on parade, that he was honoured to address the Armed Forces Day.  

“We are gathered here in the Vhembe District to honour our men and women in uniform, the patriotic soldiers, sailors and airmen and airwomen who for 32 years have stood in defence of our democracy.

“Our armed forces reflect the diversity of the South African nation, a people of different identities and varied origins, united in our shared nationhood and common purpose. We are united in advancing the values of our democratic Constitution and in safeguarding the fundamental rights of our country’s people,” the President said. 

Paying homage to the legacy of those who came before, President Ramaphosa said the nation’s soldiers carry forward the courage and sacrifice of past generations.

“You are the shield that ensures our people know lasting peace, security and stability. You stand on the shoulders of giants: great warriors like King Makhado, the Lion of the North, and King Thohoyandou, whose leadership shaped our destiny, and of the soldiers who refused to betray the cause of freedom at the Battle of Mutale River. Their legacy is mirrored in the resolve of the modern SANDF,” he said. 

Armed Forces Day is commemorated annually in remembrance of the 616 members of the Native Labour Corps who perished when the SS Mendi sank on 21 February 1917 during the First World War.

“It is recorded that they met their end not with cries of fear, but with a death dance of defiance and unity. The tragedy of SS Mendi reminds us of the importance of unity and solidarity, that despite great peril, those brave soldiers stood together as they faced their fate. Their courage and spirit continue to inspire us today,” the President said.

He paid tribute to fallen soldiers and expressed condolences to their families, saying that Armed Forces Day honours all the soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving the Republic outside of its borders and in internal operations. 

“This day is a tribute to the courage of those who wear uniform, and we bow our heads in memory of those who never returned from the horizon. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families and comrades of those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” he said. 

The President also acknowledged the SANDF’s role in disaster response following heavy rains and flooding in Limpopo, Mpumalanga and neighbouring Mozambique.

“The SANDF brought its expertise to assist in the relief efforts, working together with local and provincial authorities: deploying engineers to support disaster management, repair roads and bridges, purify water and erect temporary structures for those affected. This recovery effort extended to our neighbouring country, Mozambique, where the SANDF rescued citizens from raging floodwaters,” he said.

During the Armed Forces Day programme, the South African Military Health Service rolled out Project Owethu, providing medical care, mental health services, ophthalmology, oral health and orthopaedic care in Sekhukhune, Waterberg and Vhembe districts. More than 85 cataract procedures were conducted at Elim Hospital over the past week.

Turning to public resources, the President said the country’s military was having to adapt at a time when public resources were constrained. 

“Given the critical importance of the SANDF to our security, sovereignty and development, additional resources have been allocated from the budget.

“This is a targeted intervention to close funding gaps, improve efficiencies and ensure our operational ambitions are matched by our resources,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa further announced a phased withdrawal of South African troops from the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).

“Having assessed our current priorities, I have decided to draw down our participation as a troop-contributing nation in the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, known as MONUSCO. 

“This will be done in a phased and well-orchestrated manner to ensure the safe return of our troops and their equipment. As we withdraw, we pledge our continued support to continental peace and security initiatives under the UN, the African Union and SADC,” he said.

On the domestic front, the President confirmed he had authorised the deployment of SANDF elements to support the South African Police Service in tackling crime.

“I have authorised the deployment of SANDF elements to support the South African Police Service in a targeted offensive against brazen criminality, illegal mining and ruthless gangs. 

“From the Cape Flats to Gauteng, our message is clear: the rule of law will be enforced and the safety of our citizens will be secured. This deployment is a shield for the vulnerable, so that a child in Nyanga, Eldorado Park or New Brighton can walk to school without the shadow of a bullet haunting their steps,” he said.

The President called on young people to consider careers in the defence force. 

“To the young people present here today and watching across the country, I invite you to see the SANDF as a career and as a calling.  

“We need your capabilities in engineering, medicine, technology, strategy and many other disciplines. Join the SANDF for the love of your country. By serving your people, you build your own future and you contribute to a better nation,” President Ramaphosa said.

The Armed Forces Day commemoration featured a wreath-laying ceremony, a fly-past by the South African Air Force and live military capability demonstrations aimed at deepening public understanding of the SANDF’s role in safeguarding the nation.

The President stood in salute as various divisions of the SANDF paraded past, observing military vehicles, advanced weaponry and specialised units on display in a show of operational readiness.  – SAnews.gov.za 

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Production et transformation à grande échelle de la viande : Kandi accueille un abattoir ultra moderne, unique en Afrique de l’Ouest

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Ministre de l’Agriculture, de l’Élevage et de la Pêche, Monsieur Gaston Cossi DOSSOUHOUI, a procédé, le jeudi 19 février 2026 à Kandi-Fô (département de l’Alibori), à l’inauguration officielle de l’abattoir moderne de Kandi. Cette infrastructure de grande envergure, unique dans la sous-région ouest-africaine, positionne le Bénin comme le seul pays à avoir obtenu l’agrément pour la mise en place d’un tel dispositif intégré. 

Une ferme intégrée à forte capacité 

L’abattoir s’inscrit dans le Complexe agro-industriel dénommé HOUEZREWOUEKE, une ferme intégrée spécialisée dans la production et la commercialisation de viande d’âne ainsi que de petits et gros ruminants. 

Avec une capacité annuelle estimée à 400.000 têtes, soit environ 500 à 1.000 têtes par jour, le site comprend trois unités majeures : 

  • Une zone de production animale, dédiée à l’alimentation et au suivi sanitaire des animaux avant abattage ; 
  • Une unité d’abattage moderne, dotée d’une chaîne complète d’opérations (abattage, habillage, découpe, emballage, étiquetage, conservation et stockage en chambres froides) ; 
  • Une unité de production de biogaz, destinée à la production d’énergie et d’engrais organique, garantissant une approche durable et respectueuse de l’environnement. 

Un levier de développement pour l’Alibori 

Pour le Ministre Gaston Cossi DOSSOUHOUI, le centre constituera un véritable agrégateur dans le département de l’Alibori, à travers l’accompagnement des producteurs et des coopératives dans leurs activités d’élevage. Il a invité les cadres de la Direction Départementale de l’Agriculture, de l’Elevage et de la Pêche (DDAEP) Alibori et de l’ATDA pôle 2, ainsi que les autorités locales, à soutenir activement le promoteur afin d’assurer le plein succès du projet au bénéfice des populations. 

Le promoteur, Monsieur Narcisse DEMAGNON, a souligné que le centre accompagnera également les Lycées techniques agricoles, les Universités et les établissements de formation dans l’apprentissage des technologies de transformation de la viande, sans oublier les bouchers locaux. 

Les coopératives de production animale affiliées au centre ainsi que les commerçants de bétail du département constitueront les principales sources d’approvisionnement, garantissant ainsi un fonctionnement durable de l’infrastructure. 

Une infrastructure saluée par les acteurs locaux 

Le maire de Kandi, Madame OSSENI SAKA Zinatou, a exprimé sa satisfaction de voir la commune accueillir cette infrastructure intégrée, appelée à réduire le chômage et à améliorer les revenus des acteurs de la filière. 

Le président de l’Association Nationale des Organisations Professionnelles d’Éleveurs de Ruminants du Bénin (ANOPER), monsieur Aboubacar Alfa TIDJANI, a salué une infrastructure qui permettra aux éleveurs d’abattre leurs animaux dans des conditions optimales et de mieux valoriser leur production. 

Même enthousiasme du côté du Préfet de l’Alibori, Monsieur Hamed Bello KY-SAMAH, qui a rappelé que le département, territoire de compétence de l’ATDA pôle 2 spécialisée dans l’élevage, offre un cadre stratégique idéal pour un tel projet. Il a assuré du soutien constant de la préfecture à cette initiative structurante.

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

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Primeiro Ministro na Boa Vista: Governo investe cerca de 196 milhões de Euros na modernização aeroportuária em todo o país

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Primeiro Ministro anunciou que o Governo, em apenas dois anos e meio, apresentou resultados considerados estruturantes na modernização das infraestruturas estratégicas do país, com investimentos organizados em duas fases: 78 milhões de Euros numa primeira etapa e 118 milhões de Euros numa segunda. A estes números soma-se uma profunda modernização da gestão aeroportuária e, sobretudo, um reforço da confiança dos investidores e parceiros internacionais.

José Ulisses Correia e Silva, que iniciou uma visita de trabalho de três dias à ilha da Boa Vista, apontou como provas concretas desses investimentos do Governo no setor da aviação civil, o aumento de voos regulares, a entrada de companhias low cost e a redução significativa dos custos das viagens para Cabo Verde e para a Europa.

No quadro desta estratégia, o Chefe do Governo procedeu ao lançamento da Fase 1-B do Plano de Investimentos do Aeroporto Internacional Aristides Pereira, na ilha da Boa Vista, e a inaugurou a nova loja duty-free, confirmando que “estamos a cumprir, e com sucesso, uma opção política estratégica: a concessão dos aeroportos a um parceiro de referência mundial, a VINCI Airports”.

“Na Boa Vista, falamos de 43 milhões de euros nesta segunda fase, quase o valor de um aeroporto construído de raiz. Estamos a desenvolver infraestruturas modernas, sustentáveis e preparadas para o futuro, com forte aposta em energias renováveis” reafirmou.

O Primeiro Ministro sublinha que esta parceria público-privada valoriza ativos que permanecem propriedade de Cabo Verde, reforça a imagem internacional do país e cria condições favoráveis à atração de novos investimentos, sobretudo no setor do turismo, considerado motor estratégico da economia nacional.

Em construção 50 habitações sociais de tipologia T2 em Rabil

Ainda na ilha da Boa Vista e, paralelamente aos investimentos aeroportuários, o Executivo liderado por José Ulisses Correia e Silva reforçou a sua agenda social com a visita às obras de construção de 50 habitações sociais de tipologia T2, num investimento de 160 mil contos, atualmente em execução na localidade de Rabil.

“Este projeto irá proporcionar maior qualidade de vida às famílias beneficiárias, com soluções habitacionais modernas, funcionais e sustentáveis. Trata-se de uma intervenção estruturante que reforça o compromisso do Governo com o acesso à habitação digna e com a inclusão social”, disse.

Para além da construção de casas, José Ulisses Correia e Silva sublinhou o impacto na estabilidade e segurança das famílias, bem como o contributo para o desenvolvimento urbanístico de Rabil, promovendo maior organização territorial e valorização do espaço comunitário.

Com a Câmara Municipal da Boa Vista, o Governo celebrou três protocolos estratégicos: a reabilitação de quatro jardins infantis, um memorando para expansão e apetrechamento de serviços de cuidados infantis e o protocolo de financiamento, execução e governança da pocilga municipal.

“A reabilitação de jardins e creches é mais do que investimento em infraestruturas. É vontade política e compromisso com a dignidade humana e a inclusão. É apostar nas crianças, na sua formação e no reforço da capacidade humana. Quando falamos de 25 mil contos, falamos, na verdade, de futuro de 200 crianças que terão melhores condições para crescer e aprender”, considerou Chefe do Governo.

No domínio do saneamento básico e da gestão urbana, o financiamento de 56 mil contos, através do Fundo do Ambiente, para a pocilga municipal, visa garantir melhores condições sanitárias, organização territorial e segurança para criadores e comunidade. A medida enquadra-se na necessidade de assegurar padrões compatíveis com uma ilha turística, exigindo coordenação entre Governo e poder local.

Com investimentos estruturados, modernização da gestão e reforço da confiança, o Governo apresenta a Boa Vista como exemplo de uma estratégia integrada: crescimento económico sustentado, valorização de ativos estratégicos e fortalecimento das políticas sociais.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

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Cabo Verde afirma-se como um destino seguro e estratégico para investimento – Eurico Monteiro

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Ministro da Promoção de Investimentos e Fomento Empresarial considerou Cabo Verde um destino seguro, confiável e estrategicamente posicionado para o investimento. Eurico Monteiro deixou esta garantia a uma plateia diversificada de investidores e potenciais investidores, durante a sessão de abertura da 5.ª edição do Cabo Verde Investment Forum, que decorre esta sexta-feira, 20 de fevereiro, em Milão, Itália.

Na sua intervenção, Eurico Monteiro começou por expressar a sua  satisfação pela realização deste improtante evento, promovido pela Cabo Verde TradeInvest (CVTI), em articulação com o consulado de Cabo Verde em Milão e demais autoridades Cabo-verdianas naquele país, destacando o envolvimento de vários parceiros locais para o sucesso do evento, que garantiu sala cheia num palco de “grande qualidade e magnitude”.

A escolha de Itália, aliás, explicou o Ministro, não foi por acaso. Desde a primeira hora, recordou, aquele país desempenhou um papel fundamental na viragem da política económica de Cabo Verde, especialmente nos setores do turismo e da imobiliária turística.

Isso porque, prosseguiu o governante, após a introdução da democracia pluralista em 1991, Cabo Verde, que até então encarava o setor privado com alguma reserva, passou a apostar firmemente nesse setor como motor da economia, criando incentivos fiscais e condições favoráveis ao investimento estrangeiro, tendo os italianos, desde ., respondido positivamente.

“Empresários e turistas, todos aderiram. Ilhas como a Boa Vista e Sal adotaram a língua italiana, que passou a ser falada com naturalidade em vários segmentos da população local, o que incentivou empresários de diferentes nacionalidades a apostarem no destino Cabo Verde”, destacou o Ministro, rendendo uma homenagem aos investidores e turistas italianos que “muito fizeram para que Cabo Verde chegasse aonde chegou hoje”.

Num dos pontos altos do seu discurso, Eurico Monteiro apresentou cinco razões fundamentais para investir em Cabo Verde: em primeiro lugar, “somos um país confiável, oferecemos segurança aos investimentos, as instituições públicas funcionam e temos baixo risco de corrupção”. Defendeu, ainda, o bom posicionamento de Cabo Verde nos rankings internacionais de boa governação, índice de corrupção, democracia e liberdade de imprensa.

Em segundo, o governante evidenciou o crescimento económico sustentado pelo terceiro ano consecutivo, a uma taxa média de cerca de 6%, aliado a um ambiente de confiança, políticas fiscais atrativas e uma estratégia de redução gradual da carga tributária. “Temos uma política de baixar a taxa geral de impostos gradualmente até atingirmos uma taxa de 15% em 2031, mas realço que temos setores e situações de redução fiscal até uma taxa de 0%”, indicou.

Como terceiro ponto, o Ministro sublinhou a existência de mão-de-obra jovem e qualificada, com um sistema de ensino secundário e formação profissional completamente gratuito, com apoios às instituições de ensino superior.

A quarta grande razão para investir em Cabo Verde, prende-se, segundo Eurico Monteiro, com a preparação do país para o futuro, com forte aposta em energias renováveis, visando atingir 50% da produção elétrica a partir de fontes limpas até 2030 e em soluções de dessalinização para garantir o acesso universal à água potável. No domínio digital, o governante destacou o arranque da tecnologia 5G, o desenvolvimento de parques tecnológicos e a ambição de posicionar Cabo Verde como um hub digital na África Ocidental.

O Ministro destacou Cabo Verde como uma plataforma estratégica de acesso a mercados regionais, designadamente através da CEDEAO, que integra um universo de mais de 370 milhões de consumidores, ampliando oportunidades de negócio e concluiu convidando os empresários a investirem no arquipélago, assegurando um ambiente seguro, acolhedor e propício ao investimento, bem como total disponibilidade para acolher e apoiar novos projetos.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

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President Ramaphosa appoints Agriculture and Land envoy

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa appoints Agriculture and Land envoy

President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Wandile Sihlobo as Presidential Envoy on Agriculture and Land, reinforcing government’s focus on accelerating growth and addressing structural challenges in the sector.

Sihlobo currently serves as Chief Economist of the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa (Agbiz) and is a member of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council. 

He is also a Senior Lecturer Extraordinary in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Stellenbosch University and has published extensively on agricultural policy, land reform and food security.

With more than a decade of experience spanning the agricultural sector and academia, Sihlobo holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from University of Fort Hare and a Master of Science degree in Agricultural Economics from Stellenbosch University.

“President Ramaphosa has appointed Mr Sihlobo as an envoy in view of the importance of agriculture in South Africa’s economic growth path, recurrent challenges in the sector and growth opportunities domestically and abroad.

“In this role, Mr Sihlobo will support The Presidency’s priorities and objectives on agriculture, rural development, land reform and international trade. He will work closely with the responsible departments, in pursuit of The Presidency’s priorities,” The Presidency said in a statement on Saturday. 

The Presidency said the envoy will also work closely with various state-owned entities, such as the Agricultural Research Council, Land Bank, and Onderstepoort Biological Products, as necessary, in support of agricultural development and growth opportunities.

In addition, he will engage other stakeholders from time to time, including the private sector, to unlock progress and realise tangible gains. 

“The ultimate goal of this work is to advance The Presidency’s priorities for overcoming constraints to agricultural growth and boosting competitiveness, inclusion, and the sector’s export profile,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Surcharges et camions hors gabarit : Le gouvernement durcit le ton contre les excès de chargement

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le Ministre du Cadre de Vie et des Transports chargé du Développement Durable et le Ministre de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité Publique, portent à la connaissance des usagers de la route, particulièrement les transporteurs, que la pratique des surcharges et la circulation des camions hors gabarit sont strictement interdites sur toute l’étendue du territoire national. 

La présente décision s’inscrit dans le strict respect du décret N°2011-713 du 21 octobre 2011 fixant les conditions de chargement des véhicules et définissant les sanctions applicables en cas d’infraction. Conformément aux dispositions de l’article 12 dudit décret, tout contrevenant s’expose à des amendes, à la mise en fourrière de son véhicule et, en cas de récidive, à des poursuites judiciaires. 

Il est à rappeler qu’entre juillet et octobre 2025, des campagnes de sensibilisation ont été conduites par l’Agence nationale des Transports terrestres (ANaTT), en collaboration avec le Centre national de la Sécurité routière (CNSR) et la Direction générale de la Police républicaine, en vue d’éradiquer cette pratique. Toutefois, il a été constaté une recrudescence de ces infractions ces derniers temps. 

En conséquence, et afin de mettre un terme définitif à ce phénomène, source d’insécurité routière et de dégradation des infrastructures, les éléments de la Police Républicaine sont désormais instruits pour procéder à la répression systématique de tout contrevenant, conformément à la réglementation en vigueur, en vue de garantir la sécurité et la quiétude sur l’ensemble du réseau routier national.

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

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Minister Okello meets Cuba’s Chargé d’Affaires A.I., decries universal coercive measures

Source: APO


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On February 20 th 2026, H.E. Juan Humberto Magas Pino, Charge D’Affaires a.i. of Cuba paid a courtesy call to Hon. Okello Henry Oryem, MSFA/ IA. The two discussed issues pertaining to the Non-Aligned Movement as well as the historical relationship between Cuba and Africa.

Amb. Pino emphasized Cuba’s continued support for African independence and the end of colonialism. He recounted Cuba’s support for South Africa’s independence. Recalling the 2024 Kampala Summit Declaration and by extension UN General Assembly resolution A/RES/80/209 on Human Rights and Unilateral Coercive Measures, tabled by the NAM group and adopted by 122 countries in December 2025, Hon. Oryem reiterated the importance of African solidarity with Cuba, especially in light of the US blockade.

Hon. Oryem reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to Cuba, highlighting the special relationship between the two countries. “We stand in solidarity with nations like Cuba and peoples subjected to unilateral coercive measures, particularly those from our Movement,” said Okello.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Ethiopia Dialogues on Progress Towards Building a Competent, Responsive, and Equitably Distributed Health Workforce for Universal Health Coverage

Source: APO


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The Federal Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO), has launched a series of High‑Level Multisectoral Dialogues focused on aligning national priorities, investments, and policies for health workforce development. This work is supported by funding from the United Kingdom Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC).

The first dialogue, themed “Progress Toward a Competent, Responsive, and Equitably Distributed Health Workforce for UHC in Ethiopia,” brought together senior policymakers, training and accreditation bodies, global health partners, and leaders from across the health, education, and finance sectors. The dialogue examined Ethiopia’s progress toward its Human Resources for Health (HRH) Strategic Plan 2024–2030 and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to building a health workforce capable of delivering quality care to all communities.

Over the past decade, Ethiopia has significantly expanded its health workforce, scaling health training institutions, enhancing licensure systems, and pioneering the formalization of community health workers through the Health Extension Program and health workforce investment compacts.

However, despite these important gains, persistent challenges remain. Gaps in workforce quality, inequitable distribution, fiscal space limitations, productivity concerns, and rapid shifts in service delivery needs continue to place pressure on the health system and threaten progress toward UHC.

The dialogue highlighted that achieving UHC will require coherent multisectoral action, data-driven decision‑making, and sustained investment in health workforce development across the entire labor market cycle, from production to employment, performance management, and retention.

H.E. Mrs. Seharela Abdulahi, State Minister of Health mentioned that “This dialogue is not an exercise — it is a commitment. Ethiopia has made real progress in expanding training, opening new schools, and improving licensure systems, but we must be honest that significant gaps remain in the number, distribution, and performance of our health workforce. To address these challenges, we need stronger health financing, multisectoral engagement, coordinated leadership, and harmonized policies. By grounding our decisions in evidence and turning today’s dialogue into sustained action, we can make health workforce strengthening a national culture. Strong health systems require a strong health workforce.”

The High‑Level Multisectoral Dialogue on Health Workforce Investment was guided by clear objectives: 
•    to review Ethiopia’s current health workforce landscape, 
•    identify priority reforms, 
•    strengthen multisectoral coordination, 
•    inform the expansion of the Health Workforce Investment Compact, and 
•    mobilize political and financial commitments for sustained workforce development.

Stakeholders reflected on achievements while also acknowledging the need for further action to improve employment pathways, motivation, and retention. Through collaborative deliberation, they identified key areas for investment and reform to ensure that Ethiopia’s health workforce is well‑prepared to meet evolving population health needs.

A central theme throughout the discussions was the importance of strengthened coordination between the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Finance, and regulatory and training institutions. The dialogue provided a platform to explore how Ethiopia can more effectively operationalize its Health Workforce Investment Compact and ensure that future investments are grounded in evidence, aligned to national realities, and supported by shared accountability.

“WHO is keen to support Ethiopia in this important dialogue on Human Resources for Health, which is helping build a shared understanding of the current health workforce context and the strategic actions needed to strengthen development, retention, and investment for the future,” said Dr. Bejoy Nambiar, Health Systems and Policy Advisor, WHO Ethiopia.

Ms. Susan De, Deputy Director of Health and Nutrition, Health Systems Strengthening – Ethiopia, at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, also highlighted, “The health workforce ecosystem is complex; it requires a team effort, cross-sectoral partnerships: Ministries of Health, Education, Finance, professional bodies, donors.”

The series would continue with subsequent dialogues, which would focus on identifying concrete financing strategies and resource pathways to support sustainable workforce investments and co‑creation of Ethiopia’s Health Workforce Investment Compact III, translating policy priorities into actionable, accountable commitments. 

Together, these dialogues represent a coordinated national effort to ensure that Ethiopia’s health workforce remains at the heart of efforts to build a resilient, equitable, and high‑performing health system for all.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Ethiopia.

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World Health Organization (WHO) and Novo Nordisk Foundation partner to advance health workforce education in Kenya

Source: APO – Report:

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Kenya has made notable progress in health workforce production, including a doubling of nurses, doctors, and other health professionals over the past decade. However, findings from the Health Labour Market Analysis also identify persisting and emerging gaps in the availability of health workers. The analysis projects that to meet the population’s health needs, more than 114,000 additional health professionals across 31 different roles will need to be trained, employed, and retained within the health system by 2031.  

To address this challenge, WHO Kenya has entered a new partnership with the Novo Nordisk Foundation through the Partnership for Education of Health Professionals flagship programme. The collaboration aims to strengthen the capacity, quality, and relevance of Kenya’s health workforce in response to evolving population health needs and the country’s Universal Health Coverage agenda.  

Over the past five years, WHO has supported the Ministry of Health in Kenya to strengthen health workforce planning through the systematic translation of evidence into policy decisions, strategic reforms, and targeted investments. Last year, WHO AFRO launched the first-ever prototype competency-based curricula for 10 key health cadres including critical care nursing, general surgery and community health workers. The Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Nursing Council of Kenya, Dr Anne Mukuna, welcomed the partnership and underscored that it will strengthen regulatory oversight by ensuring the core curriculum is competency based, thereby equipping future nurses with the competencies required for safe and effective practice.

“Competency-based education ensures our health workers are prepared to address the real health challenges communities face, from preventing and managing chronic diseases including diabetes and heart disease to delivering quality care at every level. This partnership with the Novo Nordisk Foundation helps us bridge the gap between training and population health needs,” says Dr. Neema Kimambo, WHO Acting Representative to Kenya.

“Building a sustainable health workforce requires coordinated investment in education, employment, and retention. This partnership gives us the strategic support needed to create lasting change in how we train and deploy health professionals,” she continued.  

The partnership will support the transformation of health professions education through competency-based approaches that better prepare health workers for prevention, early detection, and management of priority health conditions. Key areas of support include curriculum reform and improved alignment between training outputs and service delivery needs at all levels of care. In addition, the initiative aims to strengthen governance and coordination mechanisms across the health workforce education ecosystem, enhance national research and knowledge translation capacity, and support the development of sustainable financing and investment mechanisms for the health workforce.  

“What I appreciate about the competency-based approach is that we’re assessed on whether we can actually do something, not just whether we can write about it in an exam. That’s what patients need from us,” says Joel Masiaga, President of the Association of Medical Students at the University of Nairobi.  

“Strategic investment in health workforce education is critical to ensuring that Kenya produces confident, competent, and labour-market-ready health workers who can effectively respond to population health needs,” explains Evalyne Chagina, Health Workforce Technical Lead, WHO Kenya. “The focus extends beyond increasing numbers to ensuring these professionals have the right skills for the communities they serve.”  

By building a skilled, responsive health workforce, the partnership aims to accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage, improve the quality of care, and strengthen the resilience of Kenya’s health system for the future.  

– on behalf of World Health Organization – Kenya.