Category: Africa

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Africa urged to strengthen health financing models

Source: Government of South Africa

Africa urged to strengthen health financing models

Minister of Finance Enoch Godongwana has called on the continent to strengthen the resilience of its health financing whilst strategically weaning off external financing that has become less reliable.

“We must ensure that health financing is sustainable, not just for a single financial year but for generations to come. This means strengthening our own domestic resource mobilisation and finding innovative ways of financing our health sectors,” Godongwana said on Thursday in Johannesburg. 

He was addressing the African Union (AU) Commission’s 8th Session of the Specialised Technical Committee (STC) on Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning and Integration. 

The STC brought together Ministers of Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning and Integration, as well as Health Ministers, central bank governors, senior policymakers, experts, and development partners to deliberate on strategies to close Africa’s health financing gap while responding to emerging global economic shifts.

“Coordination between the finance and the health sector has never been more important due to experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our continent’s health sector is facing a phalanx of multiple crises. It is underfunded, overstretched and faces a distressing decline in Official Development Assistance (ODA). 

“This challenge adds on the existing increase in our debt-service obligations and diminished fiscal space to make available for domestic health spending,” the Minister said.

He encouraged the continent to explore a range of solutions, including increasing budgetary allocations, and committing to increasing the share of national budgets dedicated to health, in line with the Abuja Declaration. 

“There is a need to explore innovative fiscal policies to increase revenue, through targeted taxes on products harmful to health, such as tobacco and alcohol and improve the efficiency and transparency of our public financial management to make sure that every resource allocated for health is used effectively. 

“Our private sector should not be left behind. We should create an enabling environment for both our public and private sectors to join hands and unlock investment and explore public–private partnerships across the healthcare infrastructure value chain,” the Minister said.

He pointed out that the continent’s health financing gap is an issue of global inequality.

Through South Africa’s Group Twenty (G20) Presidency, government is using the platform to support a new global compact on health financing, a model that is proactive and not crisis driven and is solidarity based.

“We are pushing for reforms to the global financial architecture to make it more equitable and representative. A key priority of our G20 Presidency is addressing the unsustainable debt burdens that destroy developing economies and prevent developing economies from investing in critical public services, including healthcare.

“We are proactively promoting a global framework to combat illicit financial flows and to ensure a fair and just international tax system. This will unlock billions of dollars in revenue that are currently lost to our economies, and funds that could be reinvested in our health systems in strengthening primary healthcare, and in building a resilient health workforce,” Godongwana said.

He stressed that the continent must urgently stabilise its economies by strengthening domestic markets, bolstering institutions and accountability, and protecting the vulnerable.

“Whilst it is true that the world economy is undergoing fundamental changes as demographic shifts and technological advancements reconfigure global markets, this moment too is a transitory one. There are new opportunities for change and growth on the African continent. A new thumping pulse in our veins, if you will.

“The energy transition and new technologies, including artificial intelligence, create new prospects for development and global economic interaction. The prospect of a multipolar world presents the African continent with opportunities to break free from old modes of development and trade,” the Minister said.

With new investments and new sources of investment finance emerging, he said there are opportunities to draw upon new spaces for pragmatic policy experimentation and autonomous development.

“New forms of multilateral cooperation and new partnerships for development are being forged, quite literally as we speak. Africa holds the keys to the solutions for the challenges the world faces. Africa’s youth are striving for development across the continent, demanding change. 

“The continent’s critical minerals, renewable energy advantages, agricultural land, and biological resources make it a central pillar of tomorrow’s healthier world, and an indispensable partner in achieving it,” the Minister said.

He said a new and reimagined developmental approach is required that restores confidence in the promise of development as an empowering partnership. 

“Africa can again be the flywheel around which a new vibrancy can emerge. This calls for new principles of global co-operation, more effective global finance for investment and economic transformation in Africa. 

“The old development models will no longer work, and the era of aid is largely over. I agree entirely, African countries must now approach development through the lens of sharper investment discipline,” Godongwana said. – SAnews.gov.za

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African Development Bank Group approves USD 500,000 grant to support Uganda’s emergency flood and landslide response

Source: APO

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a grant of $500,000 from its Special Relief Fund to support Uganda’s Relief Emergency Response Project.

The financing will provide urgent assistance to communities severely affected by floods and landslides in the Bulambuli, Kasese and Ntoroko districts, including the provision of family-size tents to an estimated 1,500 internally displaced persons (IDPs). The goal is to improve living conditions in camps where thousands have sought shelter since the disasters.

From 17-19 August 2025, heavy rains in the Mount Elgon subregion in eastern Uganda flooded the mountainous Bulambuli, Sironko and Mbale districts and triggered landslides in the neighobring Namisindwa district.

Local authorities reported 5 deaths, 50 injuries, and an estimated 2,000 homes damaged or destroyed, with 5,000 displaced and 15,000 impacted in total. In recent years, extreme weather events have displaced families, destroyed infrastructure and disrupted livelihoods across the country’s Rwenzori and Elgon regions, where these districts are located.

“Beyond emergency relief, the project is an investment in dignity, safety, and recovery,” said Mercuria Assefaw, the Bank Group’s Division Manager for Water Security and Sanitation. “Providing decent temporary housing will not only address a priority shelter need and improve living conditions for displaced families, it will also stimulate the local economy through procurement and logistics.”

The Office of the Prime Minister of Uganda will implement the project through the Department of Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Management. By prioritising rapid procurement and efficient delivery, the project will create opportunities for local suppliers and service providers, contributing to the wider recovery of flood-affected communities.

Activities will be completed within six months, ensuring timely relief for those in urgent need of shelter. With this support, the Bank will strengthen Uganda’s humanitarian response and contribute to rebuilding community resilience.

Assefaw added, “This grant reflects the Bank’s solidarity with Uganda. By providing immediate relief, we aim to restore hope and stability as communities continue their journey of recovery.”

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

Media contact:
Christin Roby
Communication and External Relations Department 
email:  media@afdb.org

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Smarter Mobility Africa Conference Opens with Visionary Access Gauteng 2050 Keynote

Source: APO

The Smarter Mobility Africa conference at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg began with an impactful keynote session on the Access Gauteng 2050 stage. This opening address set the tone for innovative strategies aimed at transforming Gauteng’s transport infrastructure, aligning with goals for sustainable development and economic growth.  

Tshepo Kgobe, CEO of the Gautrain Management Agency (GMA) and interim CEO for the Transport Authority Gauteng (TAG), delivered the keynote speech. He emphasised the critical importance of a functional mobility system in economic advancement. “Transport is fundamental to our economic ambitions,” Kgobe stated. “By enhancing connectivity, Gauteng can achieve a growth rate of 4.5%, driving job creation and tackling our socio-economic challenges.”  

Highlighting the region’s potential, the conference noted that Gauteng’s growth rate currently surpasses national averages. With strategic enhancements, the province can significantly contribute to national economic objectives. “We envision a transport system that not only supports growth but also embraces sustainability,” Kgobe added. “Our initiatives are designed to connect people, places, and opportunities seamlessly.”  

Professor Mfanelo Ntsobi, Interim Board Chairperson of TAG, echoed the sentiment, stating, “Collaboration is vital. Public and private sectors must unite to build a resilient transport system that anticipates future demands.”  

Core insights from the keynote underscored the importance of investing in smart infrastructure and prioritising sustainable transport options, such as electric and hybrid vehicles. The session also highlighted the role of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and ensuring successful implementation of these initiatives.  

Additionally, Kgobe remarked on the necessity of forward-thinking policies and digital solutions to enhance transport efficiency. “We must explore all avenues, including smart grid technologies, to create a transport ecosystem that is both efficient and sustainable,” he said.  

The event concluded with strategic recommendations for stakeholders, encouraging the adoption of digital solutions to enhance transport efficiency. These actionable insights provide a roadmap for industry leaders aiming to implement sustainable transport solutions.  

Smarter Mobility Africa is hosted 01-02 October 2025  
Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Contact:
t: +27 21 700 3500 
f: +27 21 700 3501 
e: info@wearevuka.com
w: www.WeAreVUKA.com  

For media enquiries:  
Timothy Adrigwe  
Timothy.Adrigwe@wearevuka.com     
https://apo-opa.co/4nsDCxP

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group connects people and organisations to information and each other, across Africa’s energy, mining, infrastructure, mobility, green economy and technology sectors through innovative events, content, and strategic networking. By integrating industry introductions, curated events, and digital engagement, the group empowers businesses to navigate complex markets, forge valuable connections, and drive sustainable success.  

Venture partners to The Global Trust Project, Founders of WomenIN empowerment platform and leaders of NPO, Go Green Africa. The VUKA Group’s diverse portfolio acts to contribute to its purpose of ‘Connecting Africa to the World’s Best, to Influence Sustainable Progress’  

Discover more at https://WeAreVUKA.com/ 

About SMA:
After 6 editions Smarter Mobility Africa has established itself as a meeting place for inspired and purpose driven transport professionals.  

A Movement With A Purpose:
African cities face significant challenges today and in the coming decades due to rapid population growth and large-scale industrialisation. Many people lack access to safe, reliable, and affordable mobility, impacting how we move people and goods.  

This situation has clear negative consequences for economic development, public health, job opportunities, and the environment. We refer to this as the ‘Old Urban Era.’ The human, environmental, and economic impacts of this era are profound, fuelling our passion to help cities across Africa transition to the ‘New Urban Era’ through smarter mobility solutions.  

We are dedicated to uniting every element of the mobility industry to tackle these challenges head-on, creating an environment where social, environmental, and economic opportunities are exponentially amplified.  

Learn more at: https://apo-opa.co/4nsDCxP

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Home Affairs official convicted of fraud

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 3, 2025

A former Home Affairs employee has been convicted of fraud by the Calvinia Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, following a series of offences linked to fraud.

Dawn Celeste Pieterson (45) was found guilty on all nine counts of fraud and two counts of contravening Section 31 (1) (d) of Birth and Death Registration Act 51 of 1992.

The offences were committed between February 2019 and September 2022 when Pieterson was employed at the Department of Home Affairs based in Calvinia.

As part of her duties, she had access to the national population register.  

According to the South African Police Service, Pieterson fraudulently took out funeral cover policies from reputable insurance companies and nominated herself as a beneficiary. 

“To benefit, she manipulated the national population register by falsely issuing BI-1663 forms (notice of death form) to reflect the fictitious death of the victims. The system registered the affected persons as deceased, resulting in a plethora of problems in the victims’ day to day lives,” the police said.

The case has been postponed to 26 January 2026 for sentencing.

Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks, Brigadier Prince Mashimbye, commended the great effort of the investigation and prosecution team for their work in securing the conviction. – SAnews.gov.za

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Madlanga Commission budget ‘properly managed’ – Justice Minister Kubayi

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has moved to assure South Africans that budgetary matters relating to the Madlanga Commission have been properly managed and communicated with no formal concerns about the budget raised with the department.

This after some media reported that the commission’s former Chief Evidence Leader, Advocate Terry Motau SC, has raised some concerns about the commission’s budget.

The commission had announced Motau’s exit earlier this week.
READ | Madlanga Commission appoints Adv Chaskalson SC as chief evidence leader

“Advocate Motau has suggested that budgetary issues and his fears of budgetary shortfalls influenced his decision to resign from the Commission.

“The Minister wishes to place on record that budgetary matters relating to the Commission have been properly managed and communicated, and at no point were formal concerns about the budget raised with the Department.

“The Minister further notes that Advocate Motau was directly involved in the process of determining the fee structure for himself and his junior counsel,” the department said in a statement.

The commission’s R147.9 million budget is allocated as follows:
•    Compensation of employees including commissioners, evidence leaders, investigators, researchers and secretariat staff – R10.898 million
•    Goods and services including communication and Information and communications technology (ICT), consultants, legal services and travel and subsistence – R100.744 million
•    Payments for capital services for secure ICT infrastructure including computers, servers and associated systems – R36.258 million
“The Commission continues to operate from the Brigitte Mabandla Justice College, a state-owned facility, at no additional cost to the fiscus. For security reasons, detailed security-related expenditure will only be made public in the Commission’s final report.

“The Minister reaffirms her commitment to transparency, accountability, and to ensuring that the Commission is adequately resourced to fulfil its important mandate. The Minister further encourages Advocate Motau to provide clarity to the public on the reasons for his decision to resign, rather than placing undue liability on the Department in so far as the budget is concerned,” the department concluded.

Commission hearings are expected to resume on 13 October. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng government intensifies enforcement drive on the road

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 3, 2025

Gauteng MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has urged motorists to ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy and operating within the ambit of the law as the Gauteng Transport Inspectorate (GTI) intensifies its enforcement drive.

Between 22 and 28 September 2025, the GTI removed 62 unroadworthy minibus taxis from the province’s roads during an operation aimed at restoring order and improving commuter safety.

The crackdown also saw officers issuing a total of 1104 traffic infringement notices. Of these 469 were manual notices while 635 were issued through the e-force electronic system.

Violations ranged from serious vehicle defects, such as faulty brakes and lights, to operators driving unlicensed vehicles, some with missing documentation.

In addition to the discontinuations, enforcement officers found a disturbing level of illegal operations, 52 minibus taxi drivers were caught operating without valid driving licenses and 92 were found driving without any form of driving license.

“These violations pose extreme danger to all road users. Unroadworthy vehicles and unlicensed drivers are nothing less than potential death traps, and they have no place on our roads. We will not tolerate such blatant disregard for the law,” Diale-Tlabela said on Thursday.

These weekly operations form part of a long-term strategy to combat lawlessness, enhance road safety, and strengthen regulatory compliance within the public transport sector. 

The MEC emphasised that the Provincial Government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards non-compliance in the public transport sector. 

She cautioned that operators who put profit before the lives of commuters will face uncompromising enforcement, including impoundment of their vehicles. –SAnews.gov.za

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Safety tips when accessing SASSA

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 3, 2025

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has urged the public to exercise caution and remain vigilant during times of payout.

This is to ensure the personal safety and property of South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients. 

In order to stay safe when accessing your SASSA grant, the following safety tips are recommended:

  • Keep your personal and payment information confidential.
  • Protect your SASSA card and PIN at all times.
  • Be cautious of strangers around ATMs.
  • Be aware of your payment dates and consider waiting a few days after the scheduled date to avoid large crowds at payment points.
  • Be wary of unsolicited calls or messages asking for your personal details or card information.
  • Be alert and aware of your surroundings before and after using an ATM.
  • Avoid using ATMs with blank screens or those located in poorly lit or secluded areas.
  • Consider going with a friend and or a family member when collecting cash.
  • Be suspicious of strangers who offer help or claim there’s a problem with the ATM.
  • Security personnel stationed at ATMs are there to deter criminal activity and are not authorised to assist with transactions.

SAPS encourages the public to report any suspicious activity or criminal incidents by calling the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111, the SASSA grant and fraud hotline 0800 601 or via the MySAPS App. – SAnews.gov.za

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Chag sameach to SA’s Jewish community

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, October 3, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has wished South Africa’s Jewish community chag sameach as that community marked Yom Kippur.

Yom Kippur – the holiest day in the Jewish year – was observed on Thursday.

“We wish the Jewish community in South Africa and in all parts of the world G’mar chatima tova and well over the fast as they observe Yom Kippur. We hope that this next year will bring peace, reflection, and renewal, as well as life and good health for all.

“Let us work together to make our country and world a better place in fulfilment of the mission of tikkun olam,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Smart Metering Shake-Up: Why the World Still Needs Standards

Source: APO

Three experts from the Standard Transfer Specification (STS) Association spoke openly in a new podcast episode on how its globally trusted standard continues to evolve in powering secure, reliable, and future-ready energy solutions.

What do the experts really think?
In this no-holds-barred conversation, the panel dove into the hot topics shaping the future of smart metering.

They cover:

  • The IEC’s dramatic reapproval of the STS standard and why it still rules globally
  • How STS made the leap into smart metering and what it means for everyday consumers
  • The tug-of-war between keeping old systems alive and driving fresh innovation
  • Why smart meters are the frontline in the battle against cyber threats
  • How the weakest link isn’t the tech at all but the human factor
  • What global adoption of STS has taught us (and the mistakes not to repeat)

Moderator Nicolette Pombo-van Zyl set the stage by highlighting the global impact of STS:

“If you have ever wondered how your electricity is kept secure, reliable and future ready, this conversation is for you.”

Framing the discussion in the context of shifting utility priorities, she observed that municipalities have been under pressure to reinvent their business models, and sees smart metering combined with STS functionality as “one of the tools available to help them achieve that.”

Lance Hawkins-Dady, Chairman of the STS Association Board, underlined the balance between innovation and continuity:

“The future of energy is smart, and STS is right at the heart of it,” he said.

“It bridges the gap between legacy infrastructure and next-generation solutions, giving utilities the confidence to modernise at their own pace.”

Building on that, Don Taylor, STS Specifications Expert, emphasised the importance of strong foundations in technology:

“It’s essential that utilities carefully consider compliance with international open standards, such as STS, to ensure interoperability and protect against supplier lock-in.”

His perspective underscores why long-term resilience depends on universal, open frameworks.

Adding to the conversation, Franco Pucci, STS Association Technical Consultant, cleared up a common misunderstanding:

“There’s a misconception that STS and smart metering are competing. They are in fact complementary, enabling utilities to integrate smart capabilities while building on a proven foundation.”

His insight points to a future where utilities can innovate without losing sight of what already works.

In closing the conversation, the three podcast guests addressed how smart metering will transform utility services and customer experiences in years to come — along with one important factor to keep top of mind.

Together, their perspectives showcase how STS has not only secured its relevance for decades but is now embedded at the very centre of smart metering evolution.

To hear the full discussion and gain deeper insights, listen to the podcast now:
https://apo-opa.co/46KrSQ8

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

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Gabon to Introduce Dual Legal Framework to Replace 2019 Hydrocarbon Code

Source: APO

Gabon’s Minister of Oil and Gas, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, announced that the country will introduce a dual legal framework to replace its 2019 Hydrocarbons Code. Speaking at the Invest in Gabon Energies Roundtable – sponsored by the Ministry of Oil and Gas of Gabon – at African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, Nguema explained that by separating the code into a dedicated Oil Code and Gas Code, the country aims to strengthen transparency and regulatory oversight, thereby attracting new investment across the sector.  

“The discoveries we have had and the geological research we have undertaken are all revealing the potential that Gabon holds. The government is committed to implementing a legal framework that allows you to be comfortable in exploring,” stated Nguema.  

By separating the existing Hydrocarbons Code, the country is creating a more investment-friendly environment for foreign operators. Duplex Yockot, Director General of Economic, Legal Affairs and Petroleum Data Management, Ministry of Oil and Gas, Gabon, explained that, “The new Oil Code builds on the existing Hydrocarbons Code and will deal with legal aspects associated with the industry. The Gas Code will contain terms that allow us to secure foreign investment in the gas industry.”  

These regulatory amendments come as the country implements clear goals to reach 200,000 barrels per day in oil and gas production. Preye Angaye, Executive Director Infrastructure and New Business, Century Group, underscored the value of these objectives. He said, “The goals in the country are very clear and this is something that will encourage any potential investment. Gabon has developed a framework that is functional and supports investments.” 

In tandem with the new codes, Gabon is advancing seismic research with the aim of improving the geological understanding of the country’s basins. Michel Mouba, Senior Advisor at the Ministry of Oil and Gas, Gabon, explained that “We have undertaken subsurface studies to understand the basin. When it comes to discoveries that have not been developed yet, today, we are wanting to promote these opportunities. We have data – which is key.”  

With a renewed mandate to drive Gabon’s oil and gas industry, Gabon Oil Company (GOC) continues to spearhead upstream developments. The company is advancing both mature field redevelopment as well as frontier exploration campaigns, positioning itself as the national driver of oil and gas production.  

“Gabon Oil Company has a goal to enhance production and revenue for the government. We need to look forward and that is through exploration. We have a strong advantage as the national oil company and will assist, partner and drive projects [forward] in Gabon,” stated Emery Lepo, Business Strategy Director, GOC.  

State-owned Assala Gabon, an affiliate of Assala Energy, continues to deliver stable oil production from its portfolio of onshore assets. With an emphasis on asset rejuvenation, the company has successfully extended field life through enhanced recovery methods, drilling campaigns, and infrastructure upgrades.  

Edgar Mba Ognane, Managing Director, Assala Gabon, highlighted upcoming exploration strategies, “We have an ambitious drilling and workover program. We have two workover rigs operating at our assets and we are mobilizing a second drilling unit to monetize all the resources in the ground. We are finalizing the drilling plans, and N’Gongui – a marginal field – will be producing in Q1, 2026. We will also drill an exploration well in 2025.”  

For French oil company, Maurel & Prom, Gabon represents a cornerstone of its upstream portfolio. The company produces approximately 16,000 barrels of oil per day and has invested heavily in modernizing production infrastructure. Recent efforts to optimize recovery rates at key onshore blocks underscore Maurel & Prom’s long-term commitment to Gabon’s hydrocarbon sector. 

“Gabon has a huge petroleum potential, so it’s important to develop all of this. Gas will become a very important element in the hydrocarbon mix in Gabon. You also need to include communities in the exploration and production projects. We work closely with Gabonese collaborators, bringing them into projects,” shared Olivier de Langavant, CEO, Maurel & Prom.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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