Category: Africa

Source: APO – Report:

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The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) completed an advisory service mission to Zambia focused on assessing the country’s nuclear security regime for nuclear and other radioactive material out of regulatory control, referred to as MORC. The team recognized Zambia’s commitment to nuclear security through its efforts to prevent, detect and respond to unauthorized acts involving MORC, and pointed out capacity building and coordination among stakeholders as areas for further enhancement.

The International Nuclear Security Advisory Service (INSServ) mission was conducted at the request of the Republic of Zambia and took place from 14 to 23 July 2025. Hosted by the Radiation Protection Authority (RPA) of Zambia, the mission was led by Samer Quran, Director of the National Centre for Nuclear and Radiological Security at the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission in Jordan.

The team comprised of five experts from Argentina, Egypt, Jordan, Norway and the USA, as well as two IAEA staff members.

INSServ missions aim to support States in strengthening their ability to prevent, detect and respond to criminal and intentional unauthorized acts involving nuclear or other MORC, which is lost, missing, stolen, improperly disposed of, or inadequately stored or handled. The scope of the INSServ mission included the foundational elements of nuclear security systems and measures for MORC, as well as detection and response systems and measures.

“Following an International Physical Protection Advisory Service in 2023, the first INSServ mission in Zambia builds on the country’s ongoing efforts to improve its nuclear security regime by leveraging the available IAEA assistance mechanisms,” said Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Security. “We are looking forward to continued cooperation with Zambia’s competent authorities for strengthening nuclear security.”

During the mission to Zambia, the team conducted a series of meetings with officials from the RPA, the Office of the President, the Cabinet Office, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Technology and Science, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Zambia Police Service, National Anti-Terrorism Center, Immigration Department, Zambia Airports Cooperation, Civil Aviation Authority and Zambia Revenue Authority.

The team also conducted site visits to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, the Kazungula (land) Border, the RPA Inland Office in Livingstone, the Kapiri-Mposhi Railway Station and the National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research.

“The country has made progress in developing and implementing nuclear security measures at its borders and within its territory. The mission confirmed Zambia’s commitment to further improvements concluding that the country should continue to build on its efforts to strengthen multi-agency cooperation and coordination among national competent authorities responsible for nuclear security,” said Samer Quran, the INSServ Team Leader.

To further enhance its nuclear security capabilities, the team recommended that Zambia develop comprehensive training programmes for its personnel, including exercises. The experts identified good practices in the field of information security and in processes aimed at reducing the risk of insider threats.

“The INSServ mission marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s commitment to strengthening nuclear security. The recommendations received will guide our efforts to build a robust and resilient nuclear security regime, protecting our people from the risks posed by nuclear and radioactive material outside regulatory control,” said Boster D. Siwila, Executive Director of the RPA.

The IAEA’s INSServ mission is part of its ongoing efforts to assist Member States in strengthening their nuclear security regimes in relation to MORC. The Agency provides a range of services in this area, including expert advice, training and equipment support, to help Member States protect against criminal or intentional unauthorized acts involving such materials.

The draft findings and recommendations were presented to the Republic of Zambia, and the final report will be presented in about three months.

– on behalf of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Source: APO – Report:

Afrobarometer (www.Afrobarometer.org) has concluded a two-day workshop aimed at equipping staff at the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) with foundational skills in accessing and analysing public attitude data. The training brought together APRM researchers for hands-on sessions on analysing Afrobarometer data and exploring how citizen attitudes can inform national governance reviews and reform priorities.

The workshop, held on 24-25 July in Midrand, forms part of Afrobarometer’s partnership (http://apo-opa.co/4o94BiR) with the APRM to improve collaboration on governance data, monitoring, and evidence-based policy making across Africa. The goal is to boost the availability and use of citizen-centred data by aligning Afrobarometer’s public opinion research with APRM governance monitoring tools such as the Africa Governance Index and National Programmes of Action.

Participants were introduced to Afrobarometer’s data-collection methodology and received comprehensive practical training on accessing and interpreting Afrobarometer data using its free online data analysis tool (http://apo-opa.co/3Hazliv). Through interactive exercises and real-world case studies, the training explored how insights into citizens’ experiences and expectations can be applied to enhance policy proposals, strategy development, and review processes.

Dominique Dryding, Afrobarometer capacity building manager (basic track), noted that the workshop aims to promote a culture of evidence-based policy engagement rooted in citizen data and public accountability.

“The collaboration with APRM highlights a growing recognition of the critical role of citizen voices in African governance. By equipping participants with tools to access and apply public attitude data, the training aims to foster stronger, more accountable institutions,” she said.

APRM chief of staff, Damien Thesee, stressed the strong links between APRM’s policy mission and Afrobarometer’s public attitude data.

“This capacity building session on how to read, analyse, and incorporate Afrobarometer data is timely because it aligns with our 2025-2028 strategic plan’s objectives of institutional strengthening and capacity development through the “3 Ps” of professionalism, performance, and probity,” he said. “Our vision is to equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to be able to execute our tasks effectively and ensure that there is increased productivity and improved performance, as well as enhanced satisfaction from our AU member states.”

Participants also lauded the practical impact of the workshop.  

“This training has presented us with an opportunity to start using Afrobarometer data, which is helpful because it is current and communicates the perceptions of citizens,” said Peter Katwesige, APRM monitoring and evaluation officer.

– on behalf of Afrobarometer.

For more information, please contact:
Communications coordinator for Southern Africa
Asafika Mpako          
Telephone: +2783 979 8299
Email: ampako@afrobarometer.org

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About Afrobarometer:
Afrobarometer (AB) is a trusted source of high-quality data and analysis on what Africans are thinking. With an unmatched track record of 430,000+ interviews in 43 countries, representing the views of more than 75% of the African population, AB is leading the charge to bridge the continent’s data gap. AB data inform many global indices, such as the Ibrahim Index of African Governance, Transparency International’s Global Corruption Barometer, and the World Bank’s Worldwide Governance Indicators. The data are also used for country risk analyses and by credit rating and forecasting agencies such as the Economist Intelligence Unit. All AB data sets are publicly available on the website (www.Afrobarometer.org) and may be analysed free of charge using AB’s online data analysis tool (https://apo-opa.co/3Hazliv).

Source: APO – Report:

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His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, arrived this morning in Nairobi for an official visit aimed at strengthening the diplomatic and economic ties between Uganda and Kenya.

This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to foster closer cooperation and enhance collaboration on a range of bilateral issues of mutual interest.

Upon his arrival, President Museveni was warmly welcomed at the airport by Hon. Musalia Mudavadi, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, alongside senior government officials from both countries.

This warm reception signifies the longstanding bond and mutual respect between Uganda and Kenya.

During his time in Nairobi, President Museveni will engage in critical bilateral talks with his counterpart, His Excellency President William Ruto, at State House.

The discussions will focus on various areas, including trade, security, infrastructure development, and regional integration. Both leaders aim to identify opportunities for collaboration that will not only benefit their respective nations but also contribute to stability and economic growth in the East African region.

As part of the official visit, both Presidents will also make joint statements to the media, reflecting on the outcomes of their discussions and emphasizing their commitment to fostering unity and cooperation in the region.

On departure at Entebbe International Airport earlier today, President Museveni was seen off by the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, the Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, the commander Airforce, Lt. Gen. Charles Okidi, the Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP), James Ochaya and Deputy Commissioner General of Prisons, Mr. Samuel Akena.

– on behalf of State House Uganda.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Speaker, Anita Among has urged Members of Parliament to commit to efficiency and productivity as the 11th Parliament enters its fifth and final session.  

Addressing the plenary sitting on Wednesday, 30 July 2025, Speaker Among expressed concern over the low attendance. 
“I want to welcome you to this afternoon’s sitting. I get surprised when the seats are empty. We have not yet reached September. So when we reach September, what will happen?” she asked.

The Speaker revealed that the Parliamentary Business Committee had met earlier in the day and successfully outlined key priorities for the remainder of the term.
“We did prioritise the business of the session, and that’s the Fifth Session. And remember, this is our last session for the 11th Parliament, and the meeting emphasised more on greater efficiency and effectiveness in committees,” she said.

Among underscored the importance of committee work in determining the productivity of the House and appealed for cooperation.
“And out of that efficiency, that is what is going to make this session productive or Parliament productive. I want to request you to support the Business Committee, support Parliament in running the business. I will request that we finish whatever we are supposed to finish in time or early enough for us to be able to allow you to go for elections,” she said.

– on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

Source: APO – Report:

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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today bid farewell to the outgoing Ambassador of Ireland to Uganda, H.E. Kevin Colgan at State House, Entebbe. During the meeting, President Museveni commended the Ambassador for his diplomatic service and Ireland’s longstanding partnership with Uganda. “I am very happy to meet you and thank you for your good service. I wish you good luck in your next posting,” he said. Ambassador Colgan first served in Uganda in the late 1990s during an earlier diplomatic assignment and returned in 2020 for a second term as Ambassador, which he just concluded.

President Museveni reflected on key global and regional issues, with a focus on fair trade, economic transformation, and historical lessons from Africa’s struggle for liberation. “How can you have prosperity without a link between goods, services, and consumers? Production and consumption cannot be one-sided. If you want someone to buy from you, they must have purchasing power.
That’s why it doesn’t make sense to want to trade with poor people. You need rich people to trade better,” he said. “How will people have money if they are poor? And how will they get rich if they don’t process anything? It’s in our interest that Africa rises, so we can all benefit from trade. That’s why I always say that those who buy from us are helping us.” The President also acknowledged Ireland’s constructive role in global affairs.

“Ireland has played a positive role because you don’t carry the same baggage of past wrongs. We need more dialogue between Africa and the West. There are many mistakes being made that we could help correct and there is no need for unnecessary conflicts. We should be talking.” President Museveni further recounted Africa’s historical path to liberation, positioning himself as part of the third generation of freedom fighters.

“The first generation began around 1912, the second included leaders like Julius Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Kwame Nkrumah, and Jomo Kenyatta in the 1940s. We were the third generation in the 1960s. So, we see that there are still many lessons the West could learn from our experience,” he said. He cited missed opportunities in Africa’s industrialization due to misguided global policies.
“When I had come to the government, I wanted to start up a steel factory but was told not to build it in Uganda because there was too much steel in the world but then China rose, and the price of steel jumped from $200 to $900 per ton. That shows you how global prosperity benefits everyone, including us.”

In his remarks, Ambassador Colgan expressed deep appreciation for Uganda’s transformation and resilience over the years.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time here. When I first came in the 1990s, Uganda was facing serious challenges like HIV/AIDS. But coming back 20 years later, I’ve witnessed incredible change, many others have tremendously changed like the infrastructure, healthcare, children in school,” he said.

“I could hardly recognize Kampala when I returned. Uganda has a great spirit and my wife, and I are very sad to leave,” he added.
Ambassador Colgan praised President Museveni’s leadership and advocacy for regional integration and Pan- Africanism.
“Your Excellency, we recognize your strong voice for internal development and Pan-Africanism. Just like the European Union, which
has not seen war among member states for many years, we believe in removing artificial barriers to economic prosperity,” he said.
He further affirmed Ireland’s commitment to development cooperation with Uganda.

“Ireland is increasing its development funding and will continue supporting Uganda, particularly in education and in Karamoja. This
reflects our confidence in the progress Uganda is making.” Ambassador Colgan also shared a personal highlight from his time in
Uganda while speaking at an education event in Lugogo in 2022 in the presence of President Museveni and First Lady Maama Janet Museveni. “One of my proudest moments was making a six-minute speech before you and Maama Janet,” he said.

“I then listened to your powerful speech about your vision to introduce Universal Primary and Secondary Education. I was so impressed by your commitment to education for all, that touched me, and I saw how passionate you are about the development of your country while including everyone,” he said.
He concluded with heartfelt praise for one of Uganda’s most beloved exports, saying, “I hope my family and I can find Ugandan coffee where I am going, it’s the best.” Ambassador Colgan now heads to his next diplomatic posting in Serbia.

– on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Source: APO – Report:

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The United Arab Emirates strongly condemned the attack that targeted vehicles near the village of Mangor in central Nigeria’s Plateau State, which resulted in a number of deaths.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) affirmed the UAE’s strong condemnation of these criminal acts and its permanent rejection of all forms of extremism and terrorism aimed at undermining security and stability.

The Ministry expressed its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over this heinous and cowardly attack.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.