Category: Africa

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Sonangol Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Lead Sponsor Amid Major Production Milestones

Source: APO

Angola’s national oil company Sonangol has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference – taking place September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – as a Lead Sponsor. Sonangol’s participation comes as the company achieves a series of production milestones in collaboration with international operators across strategic offshore projects, and is poised to create new pathways for partnerships in Angola’s oil and gas sector.

In July 2025, Sonangol – alongside project partners Azule Energy (operator) and Sinopec – started production at the Agogo FPSO. Situated in Block 15/06 and forming part of the broader Agogo Integrated West Hub Development, the FPSO joins the operational Ngoma FPSO to harness resources from the Agogo and Ndungu fields. With the start of the Agogo facility, peak production has been revised upwards to 1750,000 barrels per day (bpd), offering a much-needed boost to the country’s production portfolio. The project partners are now focusing on bringing the facility to its full operational capacity.

This follows the start of two additional offshore projects in July 2025, which collectively brought 60,000 bpd to the market. In collaboration with TotalEnergies (operator), SSI, Etu Energias and Falcon Oil, Sonangol started production at the Begonia project in Block 17/06. With a capacity of 30,000 bpd, the project features five wells tied back to the PAZFLOR FPSO and represents the first inter-block development in the country. Additionally, in collaboration with TotalEnergies (operator), Equinor, ExxonMobil and Azule Energy, Sonangol also brought the CLOV Phase 3 Development online. Situated in Block 17, the project comprises four wells tied back to the CLOV FPSO and also boasts a capacity of 30,000 bpd. A testament to the role international collaboration plays in Angola’s oil and gas market, these projects utilize existing offshore infrastructure to drive Angolan oil production at a time when the country seeks to sustain output above one million bpd.  

Upcoming projects will further support production growth in Angola. Notably, Sonangol is working with TotalEnergies (as the operator) on the Kaminho project. Situated in Block 20/11, the project is the first large deepwater development in the Kwanza basin and targets 70,000 bpd. A final investment decision was reached in 2024 with production slated for 2028. As a partner in the New Gas Consortium, Sonangol is also developing Angola’s first non-associated gas project. Featuring the Quiluma and Maboqueiro shallow water fields, the project will harness resources from the fields through two offshore platforms and an onshore gas processing plant connected to the Angola LNG facility. The platforms were completed in early 2025, with production set to start in late-2025.

These developments align with Sonangol’s broader strategy to establish itself as a competitive operator, reflecting the company’s capabilities to work with international partners to drive exploration and production. With stakes in 35 concessions and daily production exceeding 200,000 bpd, Sonangol plays an instrumental part in the industry. To further augment its position as a major upstream player, the company is preparing to launch an Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2026, with 30% of its shares becoming available. The IPO will provide critical financing for Sonangol’s exploration and production portfolio, supporting future acquisitions and investments.

Beyond the upstream sector, Sonangol is advancing downstream developments with a view to enhance Angola’s refining capacity and support regional fuel security. In 2025, the company is preparing to start operations at the Cabinda oil refinery – the second refining facility in the country. With an initial capacity of 30,000 bpd, the project could be expanded to 60,000 bpd and will provide much-needed fuel products for the domestic market. Additional facilities are planned in Lobito (200,000 bpd) and Soyo (100,000 bpd), reflecting Sonangol’s commitment to advancing the development of Angola’s oil and gas value chain.

Sonangol’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 showcases its ambition to not only become a major upstream operator but a driver of African oil and gas development. As the largest event of its kind on the continent, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 takes place under a mandate to make energy poverty history, connecting international partners with African projects. Sonangol’s participation is expected to facilitate new deals and collaborations – both in Angola and across the regional landscape.

“Sonangol has positioned itself as both a strong partner for international companies and a competitive operator in its own right. The company’s strong upstream portfolio, commitment to production growth and experience in delivering successful offshore projects is expected to consolidate Angola’s position as a leading global oil producer,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About African Energy Week (AEW):
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECweek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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All systems go for National Convention on Friday

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Convention Organising Committee says its all systems go for the National Convention, which kicks of tomorrow at the University of South Africa (Unisa) main campus.

The National Convention takes place at Unisa in Pretoria on 15 – 16 August 2025, ahead of the National Dialogue. The National Dialogue itself will take the form of public dialogues across the country in communities and sectors over several months. 

The Convention is also intended to agree on the approach and modalities for the nationwide public dialogues at sectoral and community level. It will also outline and agree on the key themes for discussion in the National Dialogue and establish a Steering Committee. 

The Presidency has described the National Convention as a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country.

“Ever since we announced the date of the first National Convention, South Africans from all parts of society have been getting ready to take part in the local conversations that will follow. There is a great desire to get involved and be heard,” President Ramaphosa said last week.

At a technical media briefing at Unisa on Thursday, Sthembiso Sithole, of the National Convention Organising Committee, said over 1 000 delegates are expected to attend the National Convention this week at Unisa’s ZK Mathews building.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will deliver a keynote address on Friday. As part of the Convention, there will be breakaways sessions and there will be no closed sessions, Sithole said.

The Convention brings together representatives from government, political parties, civil society, business, labour, traditional leaders, religious leaders, cultural workers, sports organisations, women, youth and community voices, among others, to chart a way forward for the commencement of the National Dialogue.

Chair of the Convention Organising Committee, Boichoko Ditlhake, confirmed that its all systems go for tomorrow’s National Convention.

“We have many people who wanted to be part of the Convention. Unfortunately, [some] could not make it. We are looking forward to South Africans taking part in the Convention,” he said.

In preparation for the first National Convention of the National Dialogue process, President Cyril Ramaphosa met with representatives of the interim Preparatory Task Team (PTT) on 7August 2025. The task team has been given the responsibility of organising the convention and preparing for the public dialogues that will take place thereafter. – SAnews.gov.za

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Role of reforms in transforming SA’s economy

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Finance, Ashor Sarupen, has reflected on the importance of policy reforms in South Africa – considering the critical role they play in unlocking economic potential and improving service delivery.

In October 2020, government launched Operation Vulindlela (OV) against the backdrop of deep structural constraints that had, for too long, held back South Africa’s economic potential.

“Our starting point was a clear and deliberate diagnosis: we undertook a root-cause analysis of why our growth had remained stubbornly low for over a decade. This analysis identified a handful of binding constraints that were holding back investment, limiting competitiveness, and undermining productivity across the economy,” the Deputy Minister said on Friday in Johannesburg.  

Sarupen was addressing the launch of the Business Leadership South Africa (BLSA) Reform Tracker, an innovative online platform designed to monitor and assess the progress of key government reforms that impact the business environment and economic growth.

The Reform Tracker evaluates nearly 240 reform deliverables across three categories: criminal justice, governance, and economic reforms. 

Each reform is reviewed quarterly and scored based on its progress—whether it’s on track, facing challenges, or encountering critical obstacles.

The BLSA Reform Tracker is expected to complement OV’s own public reporting.

OV is a joint initiative of the Presidency and National Treasury that draws on a small but dedicated technical team embedded in both institutions to accelerate the implementation of structural reforms and support economic recovery.

“The conclusion was that if we could tackle these constraints head-on, we could unlock significant private sector investment, drive job creation, and place the economy on a more inclusive and sustainable growth path,” Sarupen said.

With OV, the Presidency and the National Treasury work alongside line departments, providing targeted capacity, problem-solving support, and political momentum to accelerate delivery. 

Departments remain accountable for implementation, while OV’s role is to clear bottlenecks, maintain focus, and ensure reforms stay on track.

Phase I of OV focused on five priority areas where reforms could deliver high economic impact: Energy security and electricity market reform; freight logistics reform; water-use licensing and bulk water infrastructure delivery; release of high-demand spectrum and modernisation of telecommunications as well as reforms of the visa regime for skills, tourism, and investment.

“These were not chosen at random. Each was the result of detailed economic analysis showing that weaknesses in these areas were at the heart of South Africa’s low growth trap.

“The results of Phase I are clear. In energy, the removal of the licensing threshold for embedded generation opened the way for over 14,000 MW of private generation projects to register with the National Energy Regulator.

“In telecommunications, the successful auction of high-demand spectrum after more than a decade of delay is already enabling lower data costs and network expansion,” the Deputy Minister said.

In water, licensing turnaround times have been cut from more than 300 days to under 90 days. 

In freight logistics, third-party access to the rail network and reforms at key ports are under way. 

Furthermore, a new points-based system for critical skills has been designed for visas, alongside the digitisation of visa processes.

“As Phase I ended, we convened a workshop with departments, the Presidency, National Treasury, and partners to reflect honestly on our progress, our lessons, and the road ahead. 

“The message was clear: while much had been achieved, the work was far from done. The enabling conditions created by Phase I reforms now needed to be deepened into systemic change, and there were other priority areas where reform was urgently needed,” he said.

Phase II of Operation Vulindlela was approved by Cabinet in March 2025 and builds on the achievements of Phase I, deepening reforms in the original priority areas while expanding into new domains that are essential for growth and inclusion.

It was aimed at addressing local government capacity and basic service delivery, spatial integration and housing delivery and digital public infrastructure.

“One of OV’s defining features has been the consistency of the core team and the sustained commitment of implementing departments. This stability has allowed us to maintain institutional memory, build trusted relationships, and keep reforms moving despite political and administrative changes.

“We are now working closely with departments to finalise detailed delivery plans for each Phase II reform. These plans will set clear milestones, assign responsibilities, and define the support needed from OV to remove obstacles. This is the hard work of reform, aligning capacity, resources, and accountability to ensure delivery,” the Deputy Minister said.

Research by the Bureau for Economic Research suggests that fully implementing the original Phase I reforms could raise South Africa’s potential Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate by around 1.5 percentage points above the baseline of approximately 2 percent. 

Reforms are the most direct route to raising South Africa’s potential growth rate, increasing competitiveness, and creating jobs

“Treasury is undertaking its own modelling to estimate the combined impact of Phase II reforms on growth, investment, and employment. This evidence will be critical in maintaining political will and securing the sustained effort required for reform.

“The reforms we are implementing now will define our economic trajectory for the next decade. They demand persistence, collaboration, and an unwavering focus on outcomes. Operation Vulindlela is a vehicle for that focus, which is pragmatic, data-driven, and relentlessly geared toward unlocking growth,” the Deputy Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Deputy Minister to address Elangeni TVET College’s Women’s Day event

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, August 14, 2025

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, will speak at a Women’s Day event at the Elangeni Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College in Durban, on Friday.

The celebration, themed: ‘Empowered Women, Empower Women’ will focus on promoting women’s empowerment. 

It will highlight the role of science, technology, and innovation in achieving gender equality, while also addressing socio-economic barriers through skills development and education.

The keynote address will underscore how harnessing innovation and knowledge can open pathways for women to thrive in education, careers, and entrepreneurship, ensuring no woman is left behind.

Elangeni TVET College’s Women’s Day programme is part of its ongoing commitment to creating inclusive, empowering educational spaces. 

The event will also feature an address by the principal of Elangeni TVET College, a motivational session from a Higher Health psychologist, a health talk by the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and interactive sessions on financial literacy and personal care. – SAnews.gov.za

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Eskom, Red Cross assist over 3 000 beneficiaries affected by extreme weather in E Cape

Source: Government of South Africa

Through the Eskom Development Foundation, Eskom has partnered with the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) to assist 3 668 beneficiaries across 501 Eastern Cape households affected by recent extreme weather conditions. 

This after the region suffered heavy rainfall, flooding and snowfall, leading to fatalities, significant damage to homes and infrastructure, and the displacement of more than 1 500 people. 

Over 3 000 households across the OR Tambo, Amathole, and Alfred Nzo districts have been affected, resulting in serious interruptions to transportation, electricity, and livelihoods. 

Eskom has allocated R2 136 830 from the Eskom Development Foundation to provide vital relief items, including mattresses, blankets, food parcels, hygiene kits, and kitchen utensils to 3 668 individuals. 

Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation, Mologadi Motshele, said these beneficiaries were identified through a coordinated effort involving local ward councillors, disaster management teams, and trained volunteers working with SARCS, ensuring equitable and transparent distribution. 

“Eskom stands with communities during challenging times. This effort embodies our value of Sinobuntu, showing empathy, compassion, and unity with those in need,” Motshele said. 

Motshele said the Foundation’s Strategic Donations Committee approved this relief initiative on 30 June 2025 as part of Eskom’s wider corporate social responsibility efforts. 

“For many families affected, this support represents more than material assistance; it’s a sign that they are supported and hopeful for the future. 

“Eskom’s commitment goes beyond generating electricity. As a responsible corporate citizen, we strive to contribute sustainable value to South Africa. Our success is measured by the positive impact on the lives of South Africans. Beyond infrastructure development and electrification, Eskom supports local economic growth, skills development, and job creation, helping to transform communities nationwide,” Motshele said.

Eskom further extended its heartfelt condolences to those who have suffered loss and renew its commitment to aid in the recovery and rebuilding process. 

About the Eskom Development Foundation 

The Eskom Development Foundation (ESDEF) is a non-profit entity fully owned by Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd. It implements Eskom’s Corporate Social Investment (CSI) strategy, focusing on sustainable development projects across all nine provinces. 

The Foundation leads flagship initiatives in education, health, environmental protection, enterprise development, food security, rural infrastructure, and community upliftment. 

Over the years, ESDEF has consistently worked to improve the well-being of South African communities through targeted CSR programmes. – SAnews.gov.za 

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Keynote address by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile at the occasion of the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers, Eastern Cape, Nelson Mandela Bay, Broadwalk ICC

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director;
Premier of the Eastern Cape, Oscar Mabuyane;
Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni;
Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, Executive Mayor, Councillor Babalwa Lobishe;
NAACAM President, Ugo Frigerio;
NAACAM Vice Presidents, Andrea Moz, Arthur Mtombeni and Jacques Rikhotso;
NAACAM CEO, Renai Moothilal;
NUMSA General Secretary, Irvin Jim;
AIDC-EC board chairperson, Phumzile Zitumane;
AIDC-EC CEO, Thabo Shenxane;
Naamsa president, Billy Tom;
AITF CEO, Jabulani Selumane,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

We are meeting here today in the month that we remember and honour the sacrifices that the women of South Africa have made over the past 70 years, materialising most significantly through the march of 1956, which changed the political landscape of apartheid South Africa.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to address the first P20 Women’s Parliament of the seventh administration, an important event for Parliament, but also for the global women’s movement in the year that South Africa chairs the G20 Presidency. Women, youth, and other marginalised groups must not be left behind in the transformation process of the sector, and this must be a goal that NAACAM is committed to, in line with the country’s overall transformation agenda.

South Africa’s Presidency of the G20 is a significant moment for the continent and the global south, and through its theme of Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability, also seeks to contribute to the automotive sector by putting on the table relevant discussions that pertain to economic resilience and growth, sustainability and the green transition, and global governance reform among other things. 

I specifically make mention of this because it is important that, as a sector, you are also positioned to enhance the discussion at that level, considering that this is a global industry.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

This session takes place at a time when South Africa’s automotive and manufacturing industries are navigating tough times, just as our economy was starting to show signs of recovery.

This extraordinary time necessitates collaboration between the government and the private sector to address the growing dependence on imports, infrastructural inadequacies, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs), and the issue of a 30 per cent tariff increase.

I am pleased that the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (NAACAM), the foremost representative of South Africa’s automotive component industry, has convened us at this opportune moment to delineate the path forward for our nation.

To that extent, it is admirable that NAACAM invests a lot of resources in improving the localisation, transformation, and supplier development landscape in South Africa. 

This comes with the appreciation that the automotive industry holds significant potential for shared prosperity through targeted industrial development.

This sector is a success story of industrial policy and contributes significantly to the GDP and employment. The automotive sector in South Africa is one of the country’s most strategically important and internationally linked industries, accounting for 22.6% of manufacturing output and 5.2% of the country’s GDP.

Of great significance in our fight to increase employment is the automotive sector, which employs approximately 115,000 people in total. The largest share of these employees, over 80,000, work in the component sector.

The industry is export-oriented, globally competitive, and plays a vital role in regional and national industrial development. In 2024, the component sector exported R62.5 billion of components.

We must never allow the loss of these gains because of external and internal pressures. I say this with concern because the employment levels in the sector have been under strain due to ongoing economic pressures and reduced production volumes.

I have also learnt that over the past two years, NAACAM has recorded twelve company closures, impacting over 4,000 individuals. What is of more concern are the recently released figures by Statistics South Africa showing that the country’s unemployment rate has climbed to 33.2% in the second quarter of 2025, an increase from 32.9% in the previous quarter.

This latest figure is a clear indication that the nation’s unemployment crisis remains an urgent concern. We need to do more to combat unemployment, which might include improving education and skills to match labour market demands, promoting entrepreneurship and small enterprises, and investing in public employment programs to generate jobs.

The government is committed to working with various sectors to create employment and improve the living conditions of our people. The government supports the automotive industry through a combination of investment incentives, improved policy frameworks, and infrastructure development.

Key initiatives include the Automotive Investment Scheme (AIS), which offers non-taxable cash grants to encourage investment in new models and components. 

Additionally, the government supports local production through tariffs and incentives, aiming to boost employment and strengthen the automotive value chain.

The Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) also plays a crucial role in skills development, enterprise development, and managing incentive programmes. This sector is also guided by the South African Automotive Masterplan 2035, which aims to build a globally competitive and transformed industry.

The Automotive Masterplan 2035 goals include growing vehicle production to 1% of global output (1.4 million vehicles), increasing local content to 60%, doubling employment to 224,000 employees, and deepening transformation and value addition, with 25% Black-owned involvement at the Tier 2 and Tier 3 component manufacturer level.

The Automotive Production Development Programme Phase 2 is the policy programme intended to support and enable the realisation of the objectives of the Masterplan.

As the government, we recognise the industry’s significant role and see it as the backbone of our economic growth, promoting industrial development and encouraging innovation.

I am of the view that by increasing investment in research and development, we can use the power of technology to improve efficiency and sustainability, ensuring that our products and services stay competitive in the global market.

Moreover, by nurturing a culture of collaboration and partnership among manufacturers, suppliers, and stakeholders, we can unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity.

This sector, not just in South Africa but in Africa as a whole, has emerged as a critical area of investment, providing substantial prospects for growth and development.

In this context, we must not overlook the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement on economic integration and industrialisation, which is projected to draw additional international investment into the African automotive industry.

Moreover, the Free Trade Agreement has the potential to significantly boost the automotive industry across the continent by reducing trade barriers, fostering regional value chains, and harmonising regulations. This could lead to increased production, lower costs for consumers, and a more competitive market.

The implementation of this Agreement has the potential to lessen African countries’ dependency on developing countries for automotive components and completed vehicles by promoting regional value chains and increasing local production.

Creating a single continental market for goods and services could potentially lead to increased trade, investment, and job creation within Africa.

However, this does not suggest that we do not need other nations as trading partners. We believe in diversifying our investments and engaging in trade with several partners. It is for this reason that the Cabinet has adopted a new trade proposal to the United States that aims not just to settle the 30 per cent tariff but also has ramifications for over 130 other trading partners who may reroute products into the South African market. As the Cabinet, we are committed to protecting the economic interests of our country and are forging ahead toward strengthening our economy, therefore, dealing with the triple challenges of unemployment, poverty, and inequality.

Ladies and gentlemen, 

I must highlight that there will be repercussions felt throughout the entire value chain if we do not reach an amicable trade agreement with the White House.

It is probable that South African suppliers who provide support to domestic original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that export automobiles or integrated systems to the United States would experience volume cutbacks. This will put pressure on production planning, employment decisions, and investment choices.

South African automobiles and components would see a direct rise in the landed cost in the US market. Because of this, they would be unable to compete with goods from nations that have continued preferential or zero-duty access, such as those in the USMCA (United States, Mexico, Canada Agreement). 

Overall, the imposed tariffs threaten to disrupt well-established trade flows and weaken the global competitiveness of South Africa’s automotive manufacturing ecosystem. 

However, South Africa remains resilient and steadfast in its efforts to grow and protect our economy. We will continue engaging with the USA to identify practical solutions.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Despite challenging global and domestic economic circumstances, the automotive component sector continues to reaffirm its commitment to South Africa, attracting significant investment and driving innovation, thereby strengthening South Africa’s manufacturing capabilities and global competitiveness.

The recent investments in the Eastern Cape by Shatterprufe, a part of PG Group, and Ebor Automotive Systems demonstrate that the South African market is resilient and capable of overcoming any setback.

Ebor Automotive Systems is a locally owned, Tier 1 producer of plastic injection-moulded components and assemblies, with facilities in Nelson Mandela Bay and East London. Ebor is a B-BBEE Level 4 company with an Employee Share Ownership Program (ESOP) benefiting over 200 employees.

Compatriots, some of the future opportunities in this sector that we must take advantage of are localisation and transformation.

On localisation – We can increase localisation with existing and potential new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) entrants to market, achieving a 5% growth in SA localisation rate, potentially resulting in R30bn in new local procurement. 

Moreover, research has indicated that South Africa is well positioned to localise high-value New Energy Vehicle (NEV) components, including fuel cells, thermal management systems, e-axle and high-voltage battery mineral beneficiation and assembly.

Regarding transformation, we can intensify the sector’s potential to create at least 130 new Black industrialists in component manufacturing as part of the Automotive Masterplan 2035 goals.

At the heart of our vision for the automotive industry is a commitment to shared prosperity. We believe that sustainable development must benefit all members of society, empowering individuals and communities to thrive and succeed.

Our country boasts a rich history of automotive innovation and a skilled workforce that is capable of competing on a global scale. 

As we look towards the future, we must capitalise on this potential to drive economic growth and create opportunities for all South Africans.

Through creating inclusive business models and fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurship, we can ensure that the benefits of industrial growth are shared equitably among all South Africans.

As we navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity and collective vision for a brighter future. 

Together, we can build a future where prosperity is shared by all, leaving behind a legacy of growth and opportunity for generations to come.

I Thank You.

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Vogue Índia destaca o trabalho pioneiro da Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej em África e além

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), foi destaque numa importante organização de mídia de estilo de vida, Vogue Índia (http://apo-opa.co/4lpwfFu). O artigo, intitulado “Liderando com coragem e convicção: a Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej, sobre o empoderamento das mulheres, o melhoramento da saúde e a transformação da mídia na África“, destaca a abordagem única que ela adaptou ao envolver as comunidades de arte, moda e mídia para abordar questões sociais críticas, como o estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas, o fim da violência do género (VBG) e da mutilação genital feminina (MGF), o casamento infantil e também questões de saúde como a conscientização sobre a diabetes e a hipertensão.

Por ser destacada na Vogue Índia, a Dr. Kelej partilhou, Sou leitora da Vogue há muito tempo e estou realmente encantada por ser destaque da Vogue Índia pela minha abordagem criativa para impulsionar mudanças sociais. A África é um continente repleto de cultura vibrante, cores e criatividade, e sempre acreditei que a moda, arte e mídia podem ser instrumentos poderosos para inspirar mudanças positivas — além do entretenimento.

Essa crença levou-me a desenvolver iniciativas inovadoras, como o programa televisivo Nossa África, músicas, livros de histórias infantis, filmes de animação e prémios para os melhores designs de mídia, música, cinema e moda. Essas iniciativas visam conscientizar sobre questões sociais e de saúde críticas e sensíveis, de forma identificável e impactante.

Tenho orgulho de que este trabalho esteja a ser reconhecido e compartilhado como um estudo de caso significativo com leitores da Vogue em todo o mundo. A Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej foi reconhecida como Uma das 100 africanas mais influentes por seis anos consecutivos, de 2019 a 2024. Sob sua liderança, a Fundação Merck foi reconhecida como a ONG do Ano em 2022 e 2024, a ONG Mais Influente que Molda o Futuro da África e também recebeu o Prémio de “Melhor Filantropia do Sector da Saúde” em 2023.

A matéria da Vogue também destaca os esforços da Dra. Rasha Kelej no estabelecimento de uma parceria impactante entre a Fundação Merck e mais de 28 Primeiras-Damas Africanas, demonstrando os seus esforços colectivos na transformação do cenário da saúde em toda a África e além. A Fundação Merck concedeu mais de 2.250 bolsas de estudo a jovens médicos de 52 países em mais de 44 especialidades médicas críticas e carenciadas. A matéria também destaca o programa Educar Linda, que apoia a educação com a oferta de 800 bolsas de estudo para estudantes africanas de alto desempenho e carentes, empoderando-as a concluir os seus estudos e atingir o seu pleno potencial.

Clique aqui para ler o artigo completo da Vogue Índia, que oferece insights mais profundos sobre as iniciativas impactantes da Dra. Rasha Kelej e o trabalho de longo alcance da Fundação Merck em África e além.:

https://apo-opa.co/45tQQm5

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida:
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Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/3Jec3sL

Sobre a Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha, tem como objectivo melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e aprimorar as suas vidas atravez da ciência e da tecnologia. Os nossos esforços estão focados principalmente na melhoria do acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carenciadas, no desenvolvimento da capacidade de saúde e na investigação científica, no empoderamento das raparigas na educação e no empoderamento de pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática) com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck. Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga a mídia social da Fundação Merck: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4oBYeok), X (http://apo-opa.co/3UXtmku), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/3UsS7ot), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/45AcPb9), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/4oGHSuO) e Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3UNLAoJ).

A Fundação Merck está dedicada a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde para comunidades necessitadas. Embora colabore com vários parceiros, incluindo governos, para atingir os seus objectivos humanitários, a Fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Ela não se envolve ou apoia nenhuma actividade política, eleições ou regimes, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e melhorar o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

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Vogue Inde met en lumière le travail pionnier de la Sénatrice Dr. Rasha Kelej en Afrique et au-delà

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Sénatrice Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), a été présentée par Vogue India (http://apo-opa.co/45tQQm5), une organisation médiatique de premier plan spécialisée sur le style de vie. L’article, intitulé « Diriger avec Courage et Conviction : Sénatrice Dr. Rasha Kelej sur l’autonomisation des femmes, le renforcement des soins de santé et la transformation des médias en Afrique », met en évidence l’approche unique qu’elle a adoptée en engageant les communautés de l’art, de la mode et des médias pour aborder des problèmes sociaux critiques tels que la stigmatisation liée à l’infertilité, le soutien à l’éducation des filles, la fin de la violence basée sur le genre (VBG) et des mutilations génitales féminines (MGF), le mariage des enfants et également des problèmes de santé comme la sensibilisation sur le diabète et l’hypertension.

À propos de son article par Vogue Inde, le Dr Kelej a déclaré : « Je suis une lectrice de Vogue depuis longtemps et je suis ravie que Vogue Inde me présente pour mon approche créative du changement social. L’Afrique est un continent riche en culture, en couleurs et en créativité, et j’ai toujours cru que la mode, l’art et les médias peuvent être de puissants instruments pour inspirer un changement positif, au-delà du simple divertissement.

Cette conviction m’a amenée à développer des initiatives innovantes telles que l’émission télévisée ‘Notre Afrique’, des chansons, des livres de contes pour enfants, des films d’animation et des prix pour les meilleurs médias, chansons, films et créations de mode. Ces initiatives visent à sensibiliser le public à des questions sociales et sanitaires critiques et sensibles, de manière pertinente et percutante.

Je suis fière que ce travail soit reconnu et partagé comme une étude de cas significative auprès des lecteurs de Vogue du monde entier. »

Sénatrice, Dr. Rasha Kelej a été reconnue comme l’Une des 100 Africaines les Plus Influentes pendant six années consécutives, de 2019 à 2024. Sous sa direction, la Fondation Merck a été reconnue ONG de l’Année en 2022 et 2024, ONG la plus influente façonnant l’avenir de l’Afrique et a également reçu le prix de la « Meilleure Philanthropie du Secteur de la Santé » en 2023.

L’article de Vogue souligne également les efforts du Dr. Rasha Kelej pour établir un partenariat impactant entre la Fondation Merck et plus de 28 Premières Dames Africaines, mettant en valeur leurs efforts collectifs pour transformer les soins de santé en Afrique et au-delà. La Fondation Merck a accordé plus de 2 250 bourses à de jeunes médecins de 52 pays dans plus de 44 spécialités médicales critiques et mal desservies. L’article met également en lumière le programme Éduquer Linda, qui soutient l’éducation en offrant 800 bourses à des écolières africaines performantes et défavorisées, leur permettant ainsi de terminer leurs études et d’atteindre leur plein potentiel.

Cliquez ici pour lire l’article complet de Vogue Inde, qui offre un aperçu plus approfondi des initiatives marquantes du Dr Rasha Kelej et du travail de grande envergure de la Fondation Merck en Afrique et au-delà :

https://apo-opa.co/45tQQm5

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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À propos de la Fondation Merck :
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4oBYeok), X (http://apo-opa.co/3UXtmku), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/3UsS7ot), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/45AcPb9), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/4oGHSuO) et Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3UNLAoJ).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

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À l’ère de l’intelligence artificielle (IA) brouillonne, la confiance humaine fait la différence (Par Bas Wijne)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Par Bas Wijne, PDG d’APO Group (www.APO-opa.com)

Les contenus générés par l’intelligence artificielle envahissent le web – et bon nombre d’entre eux sont de piètre qualité, voire trompeurs. Les éditeurs appellent cela la « bouillie d’IA » : citations fictives, communiqués de presse fabriqués, titres conçus pour plaire aux algorithmes. 

Dans un monde où l’information est produite plus rapidement et à moindre coût que jamais, la confiance est devenue une ressource précieuse. C’est là que les relations publiques professionnelles – longtemps accusées de faire du « spin » – jouent aujourd’hui un rôle aussi inattendu qu’essentiel : garantir la crédibilité dans un paysage médiatique devenu incertain. 

L’IA a sa place, mais elle ne remplace pas l’humain 

Soyons clairs : l’intelligence artificielle n’est pas l’ennemie. Elle est un outil puissant pour automatiser les tâches, analyser les données et produire des insights. Mais elle a ses limites. 

Au-delà du flot de contenu de mauvaise qualité, un risque de plus en plus visible est celui de l’effondrement des modèles : lorsque les IA se nourrissent des contenus générés par d’autres IA, les résultats deviennent progressivement moins fiables, moins pertinents, et souvent faux. 

Dans ce contexte, deux éléments fondamentaux des RP deviennent des sauve-conduits essentiels pour les journalistes comme pour le public : 

  • Un accès direct aux dirigeants 
  • Des communiqués de presse vérifiés, émis par des sources responsables 

L’IA peut imiter le style d’un PDG, produire une citation plausible, ou générer un faux communiqué crédible à première vue. Mais elle ne peut pas offrir ce qui compte vraiment : 

  • Une vraie interview avec de vrais enjeux 
  • Un lien direct avec une personne décisionnaire 
  • Une déclaration authentique, vérifiable, engageant une responsabilité réelle 
  • Une voix locale qui saisit les nuances, pas seulement les mots-clés 

Informer avec fiabilité : une mission humaine 

Chez APO Group, nous sommes fiers d’être la plus grande agence panafricaine de communication et de relations publiques, ainsi que le seul fournisseur dédié à la distribution de communiqués de presse et de contenus médiatiques à l’échelle du continent, via notre plateforme propriétaire : Africa Newsroom. 

En l’absence d’une autorité de régulation panafricaine équivalente à la Financial Conduct Authority du Royaume-Uni, Africa Newsroom joue le rôle de fournisseur principal d’informations de référence en Afrique – une plateforme de confiance, utilisée pour diffuser des communications officielles et vérifiables du secteur privé comme du secteur public. 

Chaque contenu diffusé est revu, optimisé et traçable, grâce au travail rigoureux de notre équipe. 

Du côté des relations publiques, lorsque nous organisons une interview entre un journaliste et un ministre africain, ou une conférence de presse avec le PDG d’un grand groupe international qui s’implante à Nairobi ou Abidjan, nous faisons ce que l’IA ne peut pas faire : bâtir la confiance grâce au lien humain. 

Le mois dernier, nous avons facilité plus de 200 interviews de dirigeants pour des marques comme Coca-Cola et Canon, en connectant des journalistes à de véritables décideurs – pas à des personnages artificiels. 
Ce n’est pas de l’automatisation. C’est un travail de relation profonde. 

Les communiqués de presse comptent toujours – à condition d’être bien faits 

Beaucoup considèrent à tort les communiqués de presse comme un format dépassé. Pourtant, lorsqu’ils sont factuels, vérifiés, conformes, attribués, et envoyés aux bonnes personnes au bon moment, ils deviennent autre chose : des signaux fiables dans un océan de bruit numérique. 

La cascade de la confiance : Relations publiques → Journalistes → Public 

Le récent scandale de l’indexation des conversations ChatGPT par OpenAI – qui a vu des échanges privés apparaître dans les résultats de Google – illustre bien les dangers d’un contenu détaché du contexte, du consentement et du contrôle. 
La confiance du public en a souffert, et les marques concernées continuent d’en gérer les conséquences. 

Quand les écosystèmes de l’information se fragilisent, la confiance devient un effet domino. 
Et c’est là que les RP jouent un rôle essentiel : 

  • Nous fournissons des données crédibles : des personnes réelles, des citations authentiques, des faits vérifiés 
  • Les journalistes valident et diffusent ces contenus 
  • Le public reçoit l’information en toute confiance, sachant d’où elle provient 

Sans cette première couche de professionnalisme, nous risquons de construire un monde d’information sur du sable synthétique. 

Pourquoi cela est encore plus crucial en Afrique 

La désinformation générée par l’IA est un phénomène mondial. Mais ses effets sont plus destructeurs encore dans les marchés émergents, et notamment en Afrique. 

Ici, les médias indépendants manquent souvent de ressources, et la confiance institutionnelle est fragile. L’impact des fausses informations – amplifiées par l’IA – peut être réputationnel, politique, financier, voire existentiel. 

C’est précisément pour cela qu’APO Group existe : pour connecter des récits africains crédibles à l’écosystème médiatique mondial. 

La vérité humaine est notre avantage concurrentiel 

L’avenir de la communication n’oppose pas l’humain à l’IA. Il repose sur les deux. 
Mais aujourd’hui, une seule voie permet encore de créer du lien, de la responsabilité, de l’authenticité. 

Chez APO Group, nous continuerons à investir dans la technologie. Mais notre conviction reste intacte : le contenu de confiance commence toujours par des humains. 

Notre approche unique – mêlant RP professionnelles et distribution médiatique panafricaine – offre une rare combinaison : portée et fiabilité, influence et rigueur. 
Nous connectons les journalistes aux sources réelles, dans les 54 pays d’Afrique, à un moment où les boîtes de réception sont saturées de bruit artificiel. 

C’est notre engagement envers nos clients, les médias, et le public. 
Et dans un monde saturé par la bouillie d’IA, c’est ce qui fait toute la différence. 

Distribué par APO Group pour APO Group Insights.

À propos d’APO Group :
Fondé en 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) est le principal cabinet panafricain de conseil en communication et de distribution de communiqués de presse. Reconnu pour son expertise enracinée en Afrique et sa portée internationale, nous accompagnons les entreprises et institutions publiques dans le renforcement de leur réputation et de leur image de marque sur le continent. 

Notre engagement envers l’excellence et l’innovation a été récompensé par de nombreuses distinctions, notamment le PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award, plusieurs Africa SABRE Awards, et des prix comme Meilleure agence de relations publiques en Afrique et Meilleure agence panafricaine de communication lors des World Business Outlook Awards 2023. 
En 2024, nous avons été élus Meilleure agence RP et média d’Afrique du Sud, et en 2025, Brands Review Magazine nous a de nouveau désignés Meilleure agence de communication en Afrique, tout en nous attribuant les titres de Meilleure agence RP et Meilleure plateforme de distribution de communiqués de presse en Afrique. La même année, nous avons remporté l’Or pour la meilleure campagne RP et le Bronze dans la catégorie Événement spécial aux Davos Communications Awards. 

Nos clients – parmi lesquels Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, le PNUD, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, ou encore Liquid Intelligent Technologies – témoignent de notre capacité à naviguer dans un paysage médiatique complexe, multiculturel et en constante évolution. 

Avec une équipe répartie sur tout le continent, APO Group est engagé à revaloriser les récits africains, à déconstruire les stéréotypes, et à partager les histoires inspirantes de l’Afrique avec le monde entier. 
Grâce à notre maîtrise des campagnes RP à l’échelle mondiale, nous sommes idéalement positionnés pour amplifier les messages, renforcer les réputations, et connecter les marques à leurs publics cibles de manière stratégique et durable. 

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Vogue India Spotlights Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej’s Trailblazing Work Across Africa and beyond

Source: APO

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), has been featured by a leading lifestyle media organization, Vogue India (http://apo-opa.co/45tQQm5). The article, titled “Leading with Courage and Conviction: Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej on empowering women, advancing healthcare, and transforming media in Africa,” highlights the unique approach she adapted by engaging the art, fashion, and media communities to address critical social issues such as Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Gender-Based Violence (GBV) & Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Child marriage and also health issues like Diabetes & Hypertension Awareness.

On being featured by Vogue India, Dr Kelej shared, “I have been a long-time Vogue reader, and I am truly delighted to be featured by Vogue India for my creative approach to driving social change. Africa is a continent full of vibrant culture, colour, and creativity, and I’ve always believed that fashion, art, and media can be powerful instruments to inspire positive change—beyond just entertainment.

This belief led me to develop innovative initiatives such as Our Africa TV program, Songs, Children’s storybooks, Animation Films, and Awards for the best Media, Song, Film and Fashion Designs. These initiatives are aimed at raising awareness about critical and sensitive social and health issues, in a relatable and impactful way.

I’m proud that this work is being recognized and shared as a meaningful case study with Vogue readers around the world.”

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej has been recognized as One of 100 Most Influential Africans for six consecutive years from 2019 till 2024. Under her leadership, Merck Foundation has been recognized as the NGO of the Year in 2022 & 2024, the Most Influential NGO Shaping Africa’s Future and also received the ‘Best Health Sector Philanthropy’ Award 2023.

The Vogue article also highlights Dr. Rasha Kelej’s efforts to establish impactful partnership between Merck Foundation and over 28 African First Ladies, showcasing their collective efforts to transform healthcare across Africa and beyond. Merck Foundation has provided over 2,250 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. The feature also sheds light on the Educating Linda program, which is supporting the education through providing 800 scholarships for high performance and underprivileged African schoolgirls, empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential.

Click here to read the full Vogue India article, which offers deeper insights into Dr. Rasha Kelej’s impactful initiatives and the far-reaching work of Merck Foundation across Africa and beyond:

https://apo-opa.co/45tQQm5

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

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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 (http://apo-opa.co/4oBYeok), X (http://apo-opa.co/3UXtmku), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/3UsS7ot), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/45AcPb9), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/4oGHSuO) and Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3UNLAoJ).

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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