Category: Africa

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Senator Rasha Kelej received Zimbabwe First Lady at the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss the strategy to reshape patient care in Zimbabwe and celebrate the success of their joint programs

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Senegal.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It gives me great joy to have the presence of my dear sister, H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” at the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit. It has been an incredible journey since we began our partnership with my dear sister in 2019. I am proud that together we have provided 130 scholarships to young Zimbabwean doctors across 44 critical and underserved specialties to transform healthcare access in the country. Through our partnership, we are building a strong and self-reliant healthcare workforce in Zimbabwe that will be capable of delivering specialized and equitable care to communities in need.”

H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, the First Lady of Zimbabwe and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” shared, “Through our long-term partnership, we have made unprecedented progress in building healthcare capacity and driving community awareness. I am happy that 130 scholarships have been provided for our local doctors in vital specialties such as Diabetes, Fertility, Oncology, Psychiatry, Neurology, and more. I am also proud of ‘Educating Linda’ initiative, through which we are supporting 40 underprivileged Zimbabwean schoolgirls, ensuring they complete their education and have the opportunity to realize their dreams. Through our partnership with Merck Foundation, we are not only shaping a healthier but more empowered Zimbabwe.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Zimbabwe& Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/3I8EesZ

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, the First Lady of Zimbabwe, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/4mj4b7r

On day 2 of the Summit, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African and Asian First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4gboIJx

Together with Zimbabwe First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 130 scholarships for local doctors in Zimbabwe in many critical and underserved specialties. Out of 130 scholarships:

  • 56 scholarships have been provided to doctors in Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine, and Obesity & Weight Management. These specialists will thus gain the expertise to establish dedicated clinics in hospitals and health centres, significantly enhancing the prevention and management of diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases for the benefit of people in the country.
  • 34 scholarships have been awarded in Fertility, Embryology, and the one-year diploma and two-year master’s degree programs in Sexual & Reproductive Care. This will not only help in breaking the stigma surrounding infertility but also in advancing women’s health.
  • 40 scholarships have been awarded in critical yet underserved specialties, including Oncology and Cancer Care, Respiratory Care, Acute Medicine, Pain Management, Infectious Diseases, Dermatology, Psychiatry, Neurosurgery, Neurology, Neuroimaging for Research, Pediatrics, Critical Care, Care for Older Person and Rheumatology. These fields are essential for strengthening the country’s healthcare system and improving patient care nationwide.

“We have been working persistently since 2012 to build healthcare capacity in Africa and beyond. We have provided total of 2280 scholarships to young doctors in Africa and Asia across 52 countries till date. We are honored to have Zimbabwe First Lady and their Health Ministry as a committed partner with us”, added Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation has also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Zimbabwe for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields. The objective of these awards is to inspire young talents in the country to create work that can help spread messages on social and health issues like Break Infertility Stigma, Support Girl Education, Stop Gender Based Violence, End Child Marriage, End FGM, and Women Empowerment at all levels and raise awareness about early detection & prevention of Diabetes & Hypertension.

Moreover, to address these critical issues, Merck Foundation together with the office of The First Lady of Zimbabwe, has also conducted 5 editions of their Online Health Media Training to encourage media to be the voice of the voiceless and raise awareness.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Zimbabwe, Merck Foundation has also launched seven children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark’s Pressure”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness.

The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/47YreAC), X (http://apo-opa.co/4g41rck) , Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/42cdrCM), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3JM8oTt).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3V0aHoo), X (http://apo-opa.co/4pcxnzE), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4neJyKi), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4n7djwo).

Link to the Facebook live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/47WEANS

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies

  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/47YreAC
X: https://apo-opa.co/4g41rck
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3JM8oTt
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/42cdrCM
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/42c0wRp
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4lVrVxV
Website: http://www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4g4O5MV

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/46j7CWG), X (https://apo-opa.co/4g7fjCJ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/45O3jmc), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/46krOHH), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4pc2mfa) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4ni2wji).

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

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How to Drive Africa’s Energy Transition (By Anibor Kragha)

Source: APO

By Anibor Kragha, Executive Secretary, African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA) (https://ARDA.Africa/).

External expectations have framed Africa’s role in the energy transition for years. Despite facing different realities, such as limited infrastructure, restricted access to capital, and less influence in global energy policy, it has been assumed that Africa will follow the same decarbonisation path as developed economies.

This way of thinking is misaligned with today’s realities. Africa’s priorities—improving access, promoting industrial growth, and building resilience—must be reflected in its energy strategy. The continent is actively involved in the global shift. It is, however, doing this on its own terms.

At the African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA), we believe the continent’s energy transition must be designed in Africa, for Africa, balancing three urgent imperatives: expanding energy access, driving industrial growth, and prioritising energy security for the continent That means shaping policies, financing mechanisms, and partnerships that work for Africa rather than copying models that do not.

Across Africa, governments and private sector players are investing in diversified energy portfolios that reflect both local needs and global sustainability goals. In Angola, construction is progressing on a 35MW solar project, part of a broader pipeline exceeding 3GW of planned solar, wind, and hydropower developments.

In Uganda, the 250MW Bujagali hydropower plant continues to play a vital role in stabilising the national electricity supply. Meanwhile, South Africa is advancing a 316MW solar PV installation paired with 500MWh of battery storage.

These projects indicate a significant move toward energy independence and long-term resilience. The continent is not only catching up with global energy trends but also accelerating them, with locally-led solutions and designed with long-lasting impact.

Bold vision, however, is not enough. To scale Africa’s energy transition, there will need to be structural follow-through. Three crucial factors will determine if the continent can move from prospective projects to transformative change: sustainable finance, regional integration, and investor-friendly policy frameworks.

1. Sustainable Finance

The African Development Bank estimates that Africa’s energy transition will cost around $100 billion per year between 2020 and 2040.

Current capital flows fall significantly short, and the financing that does exist often comes with higher risk premiums, shorter loan terms and limited flexibility.

ARDA is championing innovative financing models that blend public and private capital, lower investment risks, and align global climate finance with Africa’s development priorities. To attract serious investment, Africa needs to utilise smart financing strategies that utilise public and private money, reduce risks for investors, and encourage global institutions to support energy projects. This approach can minimise risks for investors and encourage institutions to back energy projects. It’s also vital to prioritise initiatives that merge renewable energy with storage systems. Not only do these projects help cut down emissions, but they also ensure a steady electricity supply, support various industries, and ultimately, strengthen the economy.

2. Regional Integration

Many African countries remain reliant on fragmented, underpowered national grids that struggle to attract large-scale investment. Regional integration is essential, and it depends on harmonised regulations, cross-border infrastructure, and shared power resources. Initiatives like the African Single Electricity Market (AfSEM) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) lay the groundwork for collaboration. What we need now is political unity and focused investment to transform these initiatives into platforms for energy security and economic growth.

3. Policy Frameworks

Africa is catching the eye of global investors, but what it needs is predictability. Governments must consider implementing policies that simplify the process of permitting, financing, and running energy projects. Whether it’s through feed-in tariffs, tax incentives, or local regulations, the aim remains the same: to cut down on uncertainty, reduce costs and attract long-term investments. ARDA works with policymakers to design frameworks that enable private participation, ensuring that energy projects are not only bankable but also deliver lasting local value.

The countries that will lead the continent’s energy shift are those that provide a stable and transparent environment, allowing both public and private players to collaborate with confidence. Most importantly, this energy transition must create local value. It should focus on building skills, transferring technology, and sparking new industries, from battery production to green hydrogen. Every megawatt generated should be viewed not just as electricity produced, but as a job created, a business empowered, and a supply chain bolstered.

Africa’s energy transition is about making smart choices. Cleaner fuels like natural gas will continue to play a vital role in the short to medium term, particularly in replacing high-emission diesel and fuel oil in power generation and transport. Mozambique, through its significant gas reserves and ongoing LNG initiatives, plays an increasingly important role in shaping Africa’s transitional energy future. These transition fuels are essential to maintaining reliability while building capacity for a low-carbon future.

The investments we make today must be forward-thinking, aimed at speeding up the transition to a diverse, low-emission energy economy that promotes inclusive growth and progress. The global community stands to gain immensely from the continent’s transition. The real question isn’t whether Africa will make this shift; it’s about how quickly and decisively the world is ready to back that journey.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Refiners & Distributors Association (ARDA).

Media files

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KZN Finance commends uMkhanyakude municipality’s commitment on financial discipline

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, September 4, 2025

KwaZulu-Natal Finance MEC Francois Rodgers has commended an undertaking by uMkhanyakude District Municipality leadership to improve consequence management and enforce accountability against officials implicated in financial misconduct.

Rodgers met with uMkhanyakude mayor Siphile Mdaka and senior officials this week at the provincial Treasury offices in Pietermaritzburg to address financial management concerns flagged by the Auditor-General.

Among the key issues raised included non-compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA), overspending, incurring of unauthorised expenditure, and poor debt collection.

Mayor Mdaka assured that both the political and administrative leadership at the municipality were committed to turn around the situation and requested KZN Treasury to help improve financial management.

Mdaka also announced that the municipality has since appointed its own internal audit and risk committees, a function that was previously outsourced.

The municipality further welcomed the return of KZN Treasury’s support to its supply chain management function.

Rodgers described the move by the municipality to have its own audit risk committee, as an important step, urging the municipality to act on the committees’ findings.

“You must now make sure that their findings and recommendations are heeded and corrective measures taken so the municipality achieves compliance with financial management laws and regulations,” Rodgers said.

The MEC emphasised his focus on building a capable and ethical state.

“As agreed by both institutions, we look forward to clearly defined action plans and turnaround strategies, with time frames. Our Treasury team is on hand to guide this process [but] as the political leaders of our institutions, it then becomes our mandate to monitor this process to ensure success,” Rodgers said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Police recover R3 million worth of copper cable belonging to Transnet

Source: Government of South Africa

Transnet has welcomed the arrest of five suspects for allegedly being in possession of copper cable worth approximately R3 million at an unregistered scrapyard in Gauteng.

The arrest followed an intelligence-driven operation by a multidisciplinary team, which led them to a scrapyard in De Deur. 

The team discovered large quantities of copper cable and seized homemade stoves, reportedly used to burn the copper. Preliminary investigations further established that the copper cable belonged to Transnet.

The five suspects will soon appear before the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court on charges of possession of stolen infrastructure, dealing with second hand goods without a license and contravening the Immigration Act

In a seperate incident, 21 individuals suspected of critical infrastructure theft with an estimated value of about R350 000 were arrested on Monday at a Transnet depot in Swartkops, Gqeberha.

The suspects were found in possession of several bags filled with copper bus bars, transformers, electrical switches, copper cables and electrical cables.

When Transnet security personnel at the depot spotted trespassers on the premises, they alerted the South African Police Service (SAPS). 

The Transnet Group Chief Executive, Michelle Phillips, applauded these arrests as a demonstration of the success of the collaboration between Transnet security personnel and law enforcement agencies. 

“Our work is beginning to make serious inroads in dismantling the destructive criminal syndicates targeting essential infrastructure. We will continue to focus on fighting crimes which are responsible for the destruction of our essential infrastructure,” Phillips said on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Transnet also welcomed the successful conviction and sentencing of three cable theft criminals. 

These convicts were prosecuted and sentenced by the Molteno Regional Court in the Eastern Cape on 27 August 2025, for theft of copper cables, possession of stolen copper, and contravention of the Immigration Act.

The case was linked to an incident that occurred in December 2021, when police and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) security received intelligence-driven information regarding vehicles transporting stolen copper cable theft in the Stormberg area.

The court handed down sentences of 15 years of jail time for the theft and possession of copper cables and a further three months imprisonment for breach of the Immigration Act to each of the suspects. 

The investigation was led by the Komani-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) of the Hawks.

Transnet said these successes illustrate the impact of collaboration with SAPS, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), State Security Agency (SSA), Eskom, Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA), and other state entities, including the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. –SAnews.gov.za

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Health Dept wishes Motsoaledi well as he undergoes eye surgery

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, September 4, 2025

The Department of Health Has extended its best wishes to the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, as he prepares for a scheduled eye operation on Thursday, 4 September 2025, at the St John Eye Care Centre, located near Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto, Johannesburg.

According to the department, the Minister has been experiencing ongoing vision issues that necessitated this procedure, and he has recently been placed on the waiting list for surgery.

The St John Eye Care Centre is a public health facility renowned for its expertise in eye examinations. 

It provides high-quality eyewear at affordable rates, ensuring that community members can access essential vision care without financial strain. – SAnews.gov.za

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Gauteng puts shovel to soil in preparation for G20 Summit 

Source: Government of South Africa

Spanners and spades are out in Johannesburg as the city gears up to host the historic G20 Leaders’ Summit this November.

The summit – to be held under the theme: Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability – will be the first to be held on African soil.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi outlined the province’s preparations in a media briefing held on Wednesday.

“In a meeting…the Gauteng government and Gauteng Mayors briefed [the] Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola on the province’s G20 Summit preparations,” the Premier revealed.

Work done to revitalise the province’s infrastructure ahead of the summit includes:
•    Pothole repairs: 1523 potholes have been repaired with the project now 97% complete.
•    Road markings: Work is 40% complete on the 456 road markings scheduled for refresh.
•    Grass cutting and litter picking: This initiative, which includes herbicide application across 481 km, is 70% finished.
•    Fencing: Installation of 11.21 km of new fencing is in its early stages with 4.4% complete.
•    Light rehabilitation: Rehabilitation work on 23 052 m² of lighting is nearing completion, currently 88.7% finished.
•    Guardrail replacement: The project to replace 77.6 km of guardrail is 38% complete.
•    Stormwater drain maintenance: Maintenance on 443 stormwater drains is almost finished, with 88.4% complete.
•    Traffic signal repairs: Repairs on 64 traffic signals are halfway complete at 50%.
•    Streetlight repairs: Repairs for 21 274 streetlights are well underway, with 74% of the work completed.

Gautrain and the taxi industry 

The Premier announced that the province has reached the final stages of selecting the preferred bidder for the Gautrain expansion.

“The province has reached the final stages of appointment…and the current concessionaire expires in March 2026 and this R45 billion asset be transferred to the people of Gauteng. EXCO [Executive Committee] will appoint the preferred bidder soon. 

“The expansion will include Soweto, Mamelodi, Fourways and Roodepoort. We are also finalising [a] feasibility study to explore [how] to connect Gautrain to Smart City in Lanseria and Sedibeng.

“Plans are advanced to integrate the provincial transport system, and we intend to use this asset as the anchor and one of the outcomes of this will be the remodelling of the taxi industry after consultations with stakeholders,” Lesufi said.

Expanding further on the taxi industry, Lesufi said the province welcomed the “timeous intervention” by MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, which averted a strike in the sector.

“[The MEC] worked with taxi associations to avert a prolonged taxi strike while engagement continues to reconcile existing differences. We apologise to the commuters who were inconvenienced and left stranded by the withdrawal of services.

“We support the decision to use dialogue to resolve differences and the efforts to establish a cordial working relationship based on a rules-based system. This approach ensures industry compliance while building trust and enhancing stakeholder relations,” he said.

Furthermore, the province is working at resolving route-related challenges.

“The province commits to expediting route verifications and registrations, including the implementation of the Ziveze Programme within the next two weeks, to resolve the crisis in the Operating License regime. Special focus will be given to associations that are prone to conflicts. 

“We want to thank the Ministers of Police, Firoz Cachalia, and Transport, Brabara Creecy, for their help in resolving the taxi strike,” Lesufi said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President to address annual NEDLAC Summit

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is set to deliver a virtual keynote address at the National Economic Development and Labour Council’s (NEDLAC) 30th Annual Summit on Friday.

Taking place at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel in Gauteng, the summit convenes under the theme: “Advancing solidarity, equality and sustainability in the economy and the labour market”. 

The gathering will provide an opportunity for a larger delegation of NEDLAC social partners from organised business, community, government, and organised labour, as well as other stakeholders, to gather and deliberate on socio-economic issues.

Aligned with South Africa’s Group of 20 (G20) Presidency focus on solidarity, equality, and sustainability, the summit provides a platform for participants to share achievements and challenges in advancing worker solidarity. 

Discussions will highlight progress in collective bargaining, dispute resolution, and efforts to strengthen unity among all workers, including non-standard employees.

According to the joint statement by the Presidency and NEDLAC, the gathering will also advance gender and race equality in the workplace and society and pursue climate sustainability and a just transition from a workplace perspective.

The summit will also be broadcast on social media platforms for further invitees and members of the public to observe, and those interested can tune in on https://youtube.com/live/U9ed8Q9U_xA?feature=share from 8am onwards. – SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy President Mashatile to address the 30th Annual NEDLAC Summit

Source: President of South Africa –

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday, 05 September 2025, virtually deliver a keynote address at the National Economic Development Labour Council’s (NEDLAC) 30th Annual Summit, scheduled to take place at the NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel in Gauteng Province.

Convened under the theme “Advancing solidarity, equality and sustainability in the economy and the labour market”, the Summit provides an opportunity for a larger delegation of NEDLAC social partners from organised business, community, government, and organised labour, as well as other stakeholders, to gather and deliberate on socio-economic issues.

In line with the priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency of solidarity, equality and sustainability, the Summit serves as a platform for participants to present achievements and challenges pertaining to:

· The realisation of solidarity of workers through advances made in collective bargaining, dispute resolution and building worker unity including with non-standard employees;
· Advancement of gender and race equality in the workplace and society; and
· The pursuit of climate sustainability and a just transition from a workplace perspective.

The details for the summit are as follows:

Date: Friday, 05 September 2025
Time: 08h30
Location: NH Johannesburg Sandton Hotel (fomerly called The Hilton Hotel)

The Summit will also be broadcast on digital/social media platforms for further invitees and members of the public to observe. Go here:
 https://youtube.com/live/U9ed8Q9U_xA?feature=share

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840, and/or Louis Seeco: NEDLAC on 082 652 8999.

Issued jointly by: The Presidency and NEDLAC
Pretoria

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Canon Young People Programme and MED-EL expand to Nigeria, empowering hearing-impaired youth through photography

Source: APO

  • Canon Young People Programme and MED-EL expand their collaboration to Nigeria, empowering 13 young cochlear implant users through creative storytelling and photography workshops. 
  • The initiative reinforces Canon’s commitment to inclusive youth development by combining imaging expertise with education and skills training for underrepresented communities. 

Following the success of their first collaborative initiative in Kenya, Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) has partnered once again with MED-EL, a global leader in hearing implant systems, to extend the Canon Young People Programme to Lagos, Nigeria. This initiative reflects Canon’s ongoing commitment to empowering youth communities across Africa by fostering creativity, confidence, and skills development through the power of visual storytelling. 

MED-EL has identified thirteen young individuals between the ages of 9 and 22 who have received cochlear implants and possess functional speech and language skills. Having attended speech and language therapy as part of their rehabilitation, these students were introduced to photography as a tool for self-expression and empowerment. Through a series of creative storytelling workshops, Canon and MED-EL sparked new passions and helped build confidence among participants. By nurturing practical skills in storytelling and content creation, the initiative empowers individuals to explore lifelong interests and potential career paths. 

Empowering Through Photography 

The photography workshops were led by experienced Canon Certified Trainers- Austen Udoh and Tore Oriase, who guided participants through a creative learning journey. The sessions blended hands-on technical training with creative exercises, culminating in a final week where participants stepped beyond the classroom to apply their skills in real-world settings. They captured compelling imagery in the vibrant Bariga community, explored through the lens of the UN SDGs (Sustainable Development Goal), and at the serene Lekki Conservation Park, interpreted through the creative lens of ‘sound’. 

The Canon Young People Programme is an initiative dedicated to equipping young individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to address sustainability issues that matter to them. Through creative education and critical thinking, participants learn to express their voices using the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework. By integrating inclusive practices, the programme aims to empower underrepresented youth to become storytellers and changemakers in their communities. 

Driving Inclusive Development  

Canon’s philosophy of Kyosei, “Living and working together for the common good” continues to shape its commitment to inclusive development across Africa. Through the Canon Young People Programme (CYPP), this initiative was delivered in collaboration with specialists and trainers attuned to the unique needs of the children and young adults, combining existing resources with deep community insight to create meaningful and lasting impact. 

Leveraging its long-standing expertise in imaging, Canon integrates social value into its educational initiatives to create meaningful impact. Through programmes like the Canon Young People Programme, the company opens pathways for young people to discover creative careers, gain hands-on industry experience, and develop the confidence to shape their futures. 

For MED-EL, a global leader in hearing implant systems, this partnership reflects a holistic view of rehabilitation and inclusion. The company’s mission goes beyond medical technology; it focuses on helping people overcome hearing loss as a barrier to communication and quality of life. Such programmes allow participants to express themselves while continuing their journey in speech and auditory development. 

Tushar Vashnavi, Director of Strategic Planning at Canon Central and North Africa, commented, “At Canon, we believe that true innovation is meaningful only when it creates opportunities for all. Expanding the Canon Young People Programme to Nigeria in collaboration with MED-EL reflects our deep commitment to empowering underrepresented youth through the transformative power of visual storytelling. By equipping these young individuals with creative skills and confidence, we are not just teaching photography, we are enabling them to find their voice, shape their own narratives, and unlock future possibilities. This initiative is a testament to Canon’s dedication to building an inclusive, sustainable future where every young person has the chance to thrive.” 

Sneha Lata, Senior Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathologist at MED-EL, added, “Supporting young cochlear implant users goes beyond auditory rehabilitation. It’s about creating inclusive platforms where they can build confidence, express their identity, and feel part of a wider community. This partnership with Canon helps us bridge medical support with creative development, contributing to the full reintegration of our young users into society.” 

Looking Ahead 

As the Canon Young People Programme commenced in Nigeria, Canon and MED-EL have reiterated their long-term commitment to sustainable and inclusive youth development. With growing interest from the education and advocacy sectors, the model continues to show strong potential for replication across other regions in Africa. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/480Sej0)– ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

About MED-EL:
MED-EL Medical Electronics, a leader in implantable hearing solutions, is driven by a mission to overcome hearing loss as a barrier to communication and quality of life. The Austrian-based, privately owned business was co-founded by industry pioneers Ingeborg and Erwin Hochmair, whose ground-breaking research led to the development of the world’s first micro-electronic multi-channel cochlear implant (CI), which was successfully implanted in 1977 and was the basis for what is known as the modern CI today. This laid the foundation for the successful growth of the company in 1990, when they hired their first employees. To date, MED-EL has more than 3,000 employees from around 90 nations and 30 locations worldwide.
The company offers the widest range of implantable and non-implantable solutions to treat all types of hearing loss, enabling people in 139 countries enjoy the gift of hearing with the help of a MED-EL device. MED-EL’s hearing solutions include cochlear and middle ear implant systems, a combined electric acoustic stimulation hearing implant system, auditory brainstem implants as well as surgical and non-surgical bone conduction devices. www.MEDEL.com 

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Prosecution to commence over Jagersfontein tailings dam failure

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), in collaboration with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), have confirmed that criminal proceedings are set to commence following the 2022 tragic collapse of the Jagersfontein Fine Tailings Storage Facility (FTSF).

The collapse of the FTSF caused severe devastation to the town of Jagersfontein in the Free State, claiming two lives and leaving one person still unaccounted for.

The release of processed mine tailings, which are waste materials left over after valuable minerals are extracted during the mining process, resulted in extensive destruction to houses, roads, and other infrastructure, while large areas of natural and agricultural land, as well as surrounding watercourses, were covered in waste material.

In response, government agencies, specialist organisations, and civil society rallied to provide relief to affected community and its livestock.

A long-term rehabilitation programme, led by the DFFE with assistance from several state entities and expert organisations, has since been implemented.

In joint statement issued on Wednesday, the departments reported that damaged infrastructure, including houses and roads, has been repaired, and ongoing environmental clean-up and land restoration efforts are being funded by Jagersfontein Developments.

According to the departments, the DWS Dam Safety Regulation Directorate conducted an extensive technical study into the cause of the failure.

“This included site visits and expert evaluations by specialist civil engineers, i.e. geotechnical and hydraulic engineers from the University of Pretoria and the University of the Witwatersrand.

“Parallel to this, the Environmental Management Inspectorates from both DFFE and DWS conducted a joint investigation into the incident. A criminal case docket was finalised and referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in Bloemfontein, which has taken the decision to prosecute,” the departments said.

The first court appearance is scheduled for 10 September 2025 at the Jagersfontein Magistrate’s Court. It is expected that the case will be transferred to a higher court the same day, paving the way for a full trial.

“Government remains committed to hold those responsible for this tragedy accountable, while continuing to support the long-term rehabilitation of the community and environment affected by the disaster.” – SAnews.gov.za