Category: Africa

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Eswatini opens to investors for first-of-its-kind roadshow

Source: APO


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For the first time, Eswatini’s most investment-ready enterprises pitched directly to international impact investors, and the results exceeded expectations on both sides.

For three days in March 2026, Eswatini became a live pitch room. Five investment-ready enterprises – Luna Hair & Body, Eswatini Foods, Beef Boys, Ngwenya Glass, and Black Mamba – hosted site visits from regional and international impact investors. They opened their books, their facilities, and their ambitions to capital providers seeking exactly what Eswatini had to offer. Beyond the site visits, investors met with government officials, financial institutions, and ecosystem players – building a full picture of Eswatini’s regulatory environment, financial landscape, and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The Eswatini Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized Enterprise (MSME) Investment Roadshow, held from 3 to 5 March 2026, was the first of its kind in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Convened by the European Union and the International Trade Centre (ITC), in partnership with the Government of Eswatini, the Roadshow brought five impact investors offering funding schemes ranging from $50,000 to $3 million. They came from South Africa, Belgium, and Ghana for an immersive, curated programme of site visits, bilateral meetings, policy dialogue, and ecosystem engagement.

The event built on groundwork laid at the inaugural MSME Conference in November 2025, which explored alternative financing for small businesses. A panel discussion at that conference featured impact investor Unconventional Capital and the East Africa Venture Capital Association. They introduced Eswatini’s business community to emerging instruments: blended finance, revenue-based financing, digital credit scoring, and mobile money lending. These offerings meet small businesses where they are, rather than where traditional banks expect them to be.

The three days produced concrete results. By the end of the programme, one company had received an initial investment commitment after its site visit. Several others had started early-stage investment discussions. Multiple investors confirmed plans to return – some looking to work through local financial institutions and invest larger amounts – a sign that interest in Eswatini extends well beyond the five companies visited.

Speaking at the welcome reception, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade Manqoba Khumalo highlighted the deliberate focus on small businesses as central to addressing economic inequality. 

‘The wealth in Eswatini is concentrated on a few, and we see MSME development as one of the key solutions to this particular problem,’ he said, welcoming impact investors as partners in closing that gap.

Principal Secretary Ambassador Melusi Masuku offered a direct message: ‘Eswatini is open for business. We are safe and stable. Our Kingdom is a haven of peace and stability in a complex world.’

The roadshow marks an inflection point: the moment Eswatini moved from describing its investment potential to demonstrating it.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Trade Centre.

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Egypt: President El-Sisi Meets Ministers of Electricity, Petroleum

Source: APO


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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Prime Minister Dr. Moustafa Madbouly, Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy Engineer Mahmoud Esmat and Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources Engineer Karim Badawi.  

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the meeting reviewed the progress of new and renewable energy projects, the targeted capacities to be added from wind and solar energy and battery storage systems to the national electricity grid, in line with the 2030 energy strategy. The meeting also reviewed the status of additional capacities that have been contracted and are currently being contracted to enhance the stability of the national electricity grid and meet the increasing demand for energy.

The minister of electricity and renewable energy noted that the current year, 2026, will witness the addition of 2500 megawatts of renewable energy and its connection to the unified grid, which will enhance the sustainability and stability of the national electricity system. He pointed to the efforts made to improve the efficiency of production units and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and to achieve an energy mix, stressing that the focus is on reviewing the energy strategy, so that renewable energy sources meet at least 42% of our needs by 2030 at the latest.

The minister of petroleum and mineral resources reviewed the efforts made to pay the accruals of companies operating in Egypt in implementation of the President’s directives to pay all arrears before the end of June 2026. He also gave an overview of the discoveries made and the added reserves of oil and gas, the exploration and development drilling plan during 2026, and the efforts made to rationalize and reduce the consumption of petroleum products and natural gas.

The President emphasized the necessity of conducting well-planned expansion in new and renewable energy projects, reducing dependence on conventional fuels, and creating a balanced energy mix, reflecting the state’s pursuit of becoming a leading regional hub for green energy. The President also gave directives to continue the integration of efforts among the Ministries of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Petroleum and Mineral Resources, and Finance to accelerate the introduction of additional clean energy capacities and secure the necessary funding for them with the aim of ensuring the stability of the national grid and achieving optimal utilization of available resources to meet development requirements.

President El-Sisi also reviewed the measures being taken to address the repercussions of regional developments, particularly those related to securing electricity supply, ensuring the continuity and availability of electricity for all uses, improving energy efficiency in the industrial sector, and implementing the summer action plan and preparations to manage rising loads and increased consumption.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

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Seychelles and Japan explore expanded cooperation and future partnerships

Source: APO


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The Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Mr. Barry Faure received the Special Advisor to the Prime Minister of Japan, Mr. OUE Sadamasa at Maison Queau de Quinssy on Tuesday 7 April 2026.

During their meeting, Minister Faure expressed the government’s satisfaction with the progress being made on the construction of the Marine Police Headquarters, located in Perseverance and thanked the Japanese Government for their assistance with a project of this importance for the Seychelles Government.

Minister Faure also touched on the signing of a Visa Waiver for Diplomatic and Official passports which would facilitate visa-free travel to Japan. Minister Faure noted that once this waiver was signed, he looked forward to working with the Japanese Government on signing one for ordinary passport holders to travel visa-free to Japan which would greatly enhance the people-to-people relations between the two countries.

They also discussed upcoming events like the Small Island State Summit and the International Horticultural Expo 2027, being held in Japan, which would be a good opportunity to establish a deeper relationship between the two countries. Mr. OUE also noted that his government’s intention was to promote responsible Japanese diplomacy.

Minister Faure commended the state of relations between Seychelles and Japan, noting that cooperation on the cultural front through the Japanese Embassy had been fruitful and looked forward to more collaboration.

To note, Seychelles and Japan will be celebrating 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations this year.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

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BBBEE policy a critical component of SA’s democracy

Source: Government of South Africa

BBBEE policy a critical component of SA’s democracy

Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau says the Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE) policy remains a critical component of South Africa’s constitutional democracy and the process of rebuilding the country.

The Minister said this when he was in conversation about the overall state of the South African economy and global trading environment at the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation Legacy Breakfast session in Pretoria.

Tau said the people of South Africa would attain freedom once they have been freed from the bondage of economic discrimination. 

“South Africa remains an unequal society. It’s just a reality for our country and until we’ve addressed that challenge, we do need redress measures as an economy.  The issues we need to address are what have been the limitations in implementation, and the truth is that they’ve been on both the policy and execution sides,” Tau said.

“We need to address the specific gaps where application results in a watered-down version of B-BBEE. Instead of dismissing the need for B-BBEE, shouldn’t we be strengthening our policy and implementation instruments to ensure we measure output and outcome. 

“Shouldn’t we be asking questions like how do we reach more people at the level of participation, how do we ensure access to capital,” the Minister said. 

He conceded that some of the challenges that should be addressed in the review process currently taking place are issues about equity and participation in B-BBEE transactions to ensure a wider reach, building industrialisation and industrial capacity amongst black entrepreneurs.

Tau said that it was clear that South Africa was on a path of growth in an environment of renewed economic optimism. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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First batch of HIV prevention medicine arrives in SA

Source: Government of South Africa

First batch of HIV prevention medicine arrives in SA

The Department of Health has welcomed the arrival of the first batch of HIV prevention medicine, Lenacapavir, to the country.

The initial consignment, comprising approximately 37 920 doses, was delivered to the country last week.

“This is part of integrated, differentiated and people-centred HIV prevention services, offering new hope for people who face barriers to existing HIV prevention methods.

“Lenacapavir will boost the country’s efforts to reduce new HIV infections to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 and sustain the HIV response after 2030 in line with the Global AIDS Strategy for 2026–2030,” the department said on Tuesday in a statement.

The official launch date is expected to be announced soon, along with a phased implementation plan.

“This six-monthly injectable arrived in the country last week on Thursday, and it is expected to expand HIV prevention choices, improve adherence, especially amongst the most vulnerable priority groups, including adolescent girls and young women, sex workers, men having sex with men, among others.

“Lenacapavir is a preventive medicine, not a vaccine, considered one of the most exciting HIV prevention advances in years. 

“The Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, is very excited about this development and will, in consultation with the President, announce the date for the launch to be led by the President,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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SA welcomes Middle East ceasefire, calls for lasting peace

Source: Government of South Africa

SA welcomes Middle East ceasefire, calls for lasting peace

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in the Middle East, expressing hope that it will pave the way for a permanent resolution to the conflict.

Speaking during the Credentials Ceremony at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa said South Africa supports ongoing efforts to end hostilities.  

“We note the current initiatives and ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive end to the conflict in the Middle East.

“We welcome the announcement of a ceasefire and are hopeful that it will lay the basis for a permanent resolution of the conflict,” the President said. 

President Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s long-standing position that peace should be achieved through dialogue rather than force. 

“South Africa once again calls for dialogue and mediation to prevent further loss of life and destruction of property, and to ensure a just, sustainable and lasting peace,” he said.

South A persfrica hasistently stood at the helm of calls for a ceasefire in the Middle East, maintaining that dialogue remains the only viable path toward a sustainable solution, and that no military intervention can deliver lasting peace. The country has further urged for a universal and unequivocal recognition of United Nations resolutions on peace and conflict resolution, which are meant to advance civilian protection and brokering ceasefire deals. 

In Pretoria today, President Ramaphosa once again called on all countries to uphold international law and respect sovereignty.

“We further call on all countries to respect international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.”

The President said South Africa’s international relations outlook is grounded in the values of its Constitution, including human dignity, equality and freedom.

“As a nation that emerged from a painful past of injustice and inequality, we seek a more just and equitable world order. We seek a global order defined by peace and friendship amongst all the nations of the world,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa stressed that global peace and security should be achieved through cooperation and adherence to international agreements.

“We strive to ensure that global peace and security is secured through dialogue and negotiation and not through force of arms – where international laws, treaties and agreements are upheld and respected,” the President said. 

He added that in a complex and interconnected world, global solidarity, multilateral diplomacy and respect for the multilateral system remains key to addressing challenges such as conflict, poverty and inequality. 

“In a world beset by profound and interconnected challenges – whether they be conflicts, the climate crisis or the proliferation of poverty and inequality – we know that global solidarity and deepening cooperation are our surest means to overcome them,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

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President Mahama to headline The Africa Debate 2026 as Ghana-United Kingdom (UK) investment ties deepen

Source: APO

Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com), the leading platform for pan-African trade and investment, is pleased to announce that H.E. John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana, will serve as Guest of Honour and deliver the keynote address at The Africa Debate 2026, taking place on Wednesday, 3 June at the historic Guildhall in the City of London.

The announcement coincides with the launch of a strategic partnership between Invest Africa and the Ghana High Commission London, including the Ghana Investment Summit.

Now in its 12th year, The Africa Debate is the UK’s foremost platform for high-level dialogue on Africa’s economic future. The 2026 theme, “Redefining Partnership: Navigating a World in Transition” explores what shifts in the global order and new economic and geopolitical realities mean for African economies and their international partners. Against a backdrop of uncertainty in the global economy, The Africa Debate will spotlight opportunities to accelerate investment, unlock growth, and strengthen development outcomes through a new era of collaboration.

H.E President Mahama’s keynote will follow opening remarks by the UK Government and will set the tone for a day of substantive discussion focused on regional leadership and strengthening partnerships in key sectoral areas. As a recognised leader in sustainability and innovation, Ghana’s voice will be central to this year’s agenda.

Chantelé Carrington, CEO of Invest Africa, commented: “We are honoured to welcome H.E President Mahama to The Africa Debate 2026 at a moment of real momentum in Ghana’s investment story. His leadership on green growth, regional integration, financial services and digital economy has positioned Ghana as one of the continent’s most forward-looking and investable economies. We are also proud to partner with the Ghana High Commission in London, under the leadership of H.E. Sabah Zita Benson, the High Commission is an important representative of Ghana’s economic opportunities here in the United Kingdom.”

H.E. Sabah Zita Benson, High Commissioner, Ghana High Commission London, added: “I am proud to represent a Ghana that is confident, forward-looking, and ready to lead in shaping the future of Africa–UK relations. It is a distinct honour to host H.E. John Dramani Mahama at The Africa Debate 2026, as we move beyond dialogue to decisive action, mobilising investment, strengthening partnerships, and delivering real impact. Ghana stands ready to work with committed partners to unlock opportunities, drive innovation, and secure a more resilient and prosperous future for our people.”

The Africa Debate 2026 will feature presidential and ministerial keynotes, high-level plenaries, and curated side events convening 800+ senior stakeholders from government, finance, and industry. Sessions will examine how Africa can redefine partnerships — through finance, digitalisation, agribusiness and energy security — to drive resilient and sustainable growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

Media Contact:
Invest Africa
Email fiona.hannig@investafrica.com

About The Africa Debate:
The Africa Debate is London’s premier investment forum dedicated to shaping the future of African trade, investment, and economic transformation. Now in its 12th year, the event serves as a critical platform for global businesses, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage in high-level discussions on Africa’s evolving role in the global economy. Website: https://TheAfricaDebate.com

About Invest Africa:
Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business and investment platform, that drives trade and investment across the continent. With over seventy years’ experience in Africa, we provide our network with trusted market insights, tailored business support, and platforms for meaningful engagement. Our network includes more than 400 multinational corporations, investors, policy makers, and entrepreneurs, united by a shared commitment to building sustainable opportunity across Africa. Website: www.InvestAfrica.com

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Angolan Production Gets New Uplift as Eni’s Guido Brusco Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2026

Source: APO

Guido Brusco, COO, Natural Resources of energy major Eni, will return to the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition – taking place September 9–10 with a pre-conference day on September 8 – as a speaker. With several project milestones reached in 2026, Eni – through its joint venture company Azule Energy – is reshaping Angola’s next production cycle. As the company works towards reaching 250,000 barrels per day (bpd), Brusco’s participation at AOG 2026 signals Eni’s continued confidence in Angola’s project pipeline, reinforcing the country’s position as one of Africa’s biggest hydrocarbon markets.

Angola entered 2026 with several projects gaining momentum – most of which Azule Energy has been at the forefront of. In the oil sector, the company continues to advance development at Block 15/06, where its Agogo Integrated West Hub recently announced the start of the Ndungu full-field development in February 2026. Featuring seven production wells and four injection wells, the Ndungu field will produce 60,000 bpd at peak capacity, boosting West Hub production to 175,000 bpd. The next project phase will see the migration of the Ndungu field from the Ngoma FPSO to the Agogo FPSO, following which Ngoma will be disconnected and decommissioned.

Beyond the West Hub, Azule Energy is advancing the development of the East Hub at Block 15/06. The company recently announced the discovery of the Algaita-01 well – situated near the Olombendo FPSO which currently produces hydrocarbon from nine subsea wells on the eastern side of the block. The well is estimated to hold up to 500 million barrels of oil, building on 22 discoveries to strengthen the production outlook of Block 15/06. Together, the West Hub and East Hub developments form a central part of Angola’s strategy to sustain production through phased offshore developments, infill drilling and new discoveries tied back to existing infrastructure.

In parallel, Azule Energy is at the helm of Angola’s natural gas resurgence. The company – through the New Gas Consortium (NGC) – achieved first gas delivery from the Quiluma field in March 2026, marking a critical milestone for Angola’s first non-associated gas project. Initial output is estimated at 150 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscf/d), with the NGC eyeing 330 mmscf/d by the end of 2026. The field will provide gas to the onshore Soyo liquefaction plant and then distributed to the Angola LNG plant. The milestone follows the Gajajeira-01 discovery – Angola’s first dedicated gas find – made in 2025 by Azule Energy, reinforcing the long-term gas potential of Angola’s offshore sector and supporting the country’s strategy to monetize gas resources.

Against this backdrop, Brusco’s participation at AOG 2026 reflects both Eni’s long-term commitment to Angola and Azule Energy’s growing role in advancing the country’s upstream and gas development strategy. As the country continues to bring new projects online, expand gas production and advance offshore developments, AOG 2026 will provide a platform for operators, investors and policymakers to align on the next phase of investment and production growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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SAWS releases seasonal climate forecast

Source: Government of South Africa

SAWS releases seasonal climate forecast

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) forecast indicates that warmer conditions are expected in most parts of the country in the late autumn and winter, while significant rainfall is expected mainly over the southern and eastern coastal parts of South Africa.

In its seasonal climate watch released on Tuesday, the weather service said the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is currently still in a neutral state.

Current predictions indicate a rapid shift over the next few months toward an El Niño state [associated with hotter and drier conditions], with further strengthening expected through spring and into the start of the next summer season.

“Caution is advised, however, as the prediction skill of the ENSO phenomena can be limited during the winter months, and therefore it is highly recommended to keep track of the forecasts during and after winter,” SAWS said.

Above-normal rainfall is expected over the south-eastern and eastern coastal areas during late autumn, with the eastern coastal areas remaining likely to receive above-normal rainfall during the winter season.

“This is likely to bring positive impacts for crop and livestock production. However, the south-western part of the country, which normally receives significant rainfall during the winter season, is expected to receive below-normal rainfall during this period. 

“Therefore, the relevant decision-makers are encouraged to advise farmers in these regions to practice soil and water conservation, proper water harvesting and storage, and other appropriate farming practices,” SAWS said.

The weather service warned that the wetter-than-normal conditions may increase the risk of localised flooding, temporary waterlogging, and poor drainage in vulnerable coastal and low-lying areas, particularly in settlements located near rivers, estuaries, and flood-prone zones. 

Such conditions may elevate the potential for waterborne disease outbreaks, contamination of water sources, and water-related injuries or accidents. 

In contrast, the south-western and southern coastal regions are expected to receive below-normal rainfall during winter, which may place pressure on local water availability and hygiene conditions in some communities if dry conditions persist.

Minimum and maximum temperatures are also expected to be above normal across most parts of the country during autumn and early winter. 

These warmer-than-usual conditions may increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, especially among vulnerable groups such as older persons, young children, people with chronic illnesses, and those working outdoors. 

Elevated temperatures may also heighten exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, increasing the likelihood of sunburn, skin damage, and other UV- related health impacts. 

“Communities are therefore encouraged to remain alert to both heat- and rainfall-related health risks by staying hydrated, limiting unnecessary exposure to heat, using sun protection, avoiding flooded areas, and ensuring safe water and sanitation practices. 

“Health authorities and disaster management structures are advised to strengthen public health messaging and ensure the timely dissemination of heat-health information, flood alerts, and hygiene awareness measures to support preparedness and response,” SAWS said. 

The forecast is updated monthly, and users are advised to monitor the updated forecasts, as there is a possibility for them to change, especially the longer lead-time forecasts.  

“Moreover, farmers are advised to keep monitoring the weekly and monthly forecasts issued by the SAWS. Farmers are also advised to keep monitoring advisories from the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, and make the necessary adjustments accordingly,” the weather service said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

 

nosihle

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President Ramaphosa urges new envoys to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa urges new envoys to strengthen diplomatic, economic ties

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on newly appointed ambassadors and high commissioners to deepen diplomatic, economic and people-to-people relations between South Africa and their respective countries.

The President received letters of credence from the newly appointed Heads of Mission from 20 countries across the world during a credentials ceremony at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, on Wednesday. 

The ceremony saw the Heads of Mission-designate present their credentials to the President and pledged their commitment to work with South Africa to further advance and strengthen diplomatic relations. 

Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by Heads of Mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.

Addressing Heads of Mission, the President said South Africa stands ready to partner with nations for trade, development and peace.

“In South Africa you will find a ready, willing, able and capable partner for trade, development, progress and peace,” he said.

President Ramaphosa said the envoys begin their tenure at a time when South Africa’s economy is recovering, supported by ongoing structural reforms.

“The structural reform agenda we embarked on in 2018 to overcome longstanding constraints to investment and growth continues to gain momentum,” he said.

He noted improvements in key economic indicators, including stabilised public debt and increased job creation, as well as progress made through investment drives.

“Last week, we held our sixth South Africa Investment Conference, where we secured R889 billion in cumulative investment commitments. This has encouraged us to set a goal of securing R3 trillion in new investment commitments over the next three years,” he said. 

The President said government is also investing heavily in infrastructure to support growth.

“We will be investing approximately R1 trillion over the next three years to build roads, dams, schools, hospitals and other public infrastructure,” he said.

President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation among nations, particularly in addressing global challenges.

“As we pursue our apex priority of inclusive growth and job creation, we are firmly committed to deepen our cooperation and collaboration with all countries. We hope that your time in South Africa will contribute to building meaningful, sustainable economic partnerships,” he said. 

Expectations for Diplomats

He also outlined expectations for the diplomats, stressing the importance of mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement.

“As President, whenever I appoint Ambassadors and High Commissioners to your country, I expect them to promote good relations between our two nations. I expect them to respect your country’s sovereignty and promote trade and investment opportunities in our respective countries. 

“I also expect them to promote South Africa’s culture and value system and strengthen people-to-people relations,” he said.

The President underscored the importance of diplomacy conducted with tact and discretion.

“I always make it a point to inform them that they should never criticise their host countries publicly and in a confrontational manner but should always seek to raise issues privately and constructively.

“They should always seek to build relationships with various stakeholders in the host country. They should always choose to preserve dignity and partnership between our respective countries,” the President said. 

He said this approach aligns with principles of international diplomacy and fosters stronger bilateral relations.

“It is this approach that I believe builds strong relationships between nations and helps to advance the interests of our respective countries based on mutual respect.
 
“South Africa’s interest is to advance a better, more peaceful, more equal world, anchored in human rights and with respect for the dignity of all,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za 

DikelediM

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