Category: Africa

Source: APO – Report:

The French diplomat also discussed with General Diop the security situation in the ECOWAS region. The two leaders addressed the security challenges hindering peace and stability in West Africa, including terrorism, organized crime, insecurity, cybercrime, cross-border crime, misinformation, and disinformation.

Marc Fonbaustier reiterated France’s commitment to further supporting ECOWAS’s efforts to address these challenges and promote regional peace, security, and stability.

He congratulated the new Chairperson of the ECOWAS Commission and assured him of his support in fulfilling and successfully carrying out his mission within the regional organization.

Gen. Birame Diop expressed his gratitude to his host and praised the strong ties of friendship and cooperation between ECOWAS and France. He reiterated his determination to contribute to improving and strengthening these ties. “We will add our own values to these relationships that we have inherited from our predecessors,” he said.

Speaking about global relations, the President of the ECOWAS Commission expressed his conviction that tomorrow’s world will be dominated by dialogue, consensus, peace, humility, harmony, understanding, and tolerance. “The world is changing; we must change with it and follow its trend,” he said.

“We must move toward multilateralism, which is under attack today. We have a duty to further preserve the United Nations, which is the best means of unifying and bringing peace to the world,” General Diop emphasized.

He called for respect, tolerance, and patience: with these three words, the world will be at peace and in harmony, he noted, adding that it is important to restore humanity’s central role in today’s society. To this end, he plans to write a book titled “How to Rehumanize the Human Race.”

It should be noted that during this visit, Gen. Birame Diop was accompanied by Vice President Anthony Ogunjimi, his political and diplomatic advisor, Ms. Isabelle Sandra Folquet, and the Director of External Relations at the ECOWAS Commission, Jérôme Boa, respectively.

As for the French Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Marc Fonbaustier, he was accompanied by his political advisor, Ms. Alice Ellenbogen.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Source: APO – Report:

Visa (www.Visa.co.in), a global leader in digital payments, announced today renowned Congolese music superstar Fally Ipupa as the official Brand Ambassador for Visa Pay, during an exclusive media event in Kinshasa.  The partnership marks a significant milestone for digital payments and financial inclusion in the DRC, bringing together one of Africa’s most influential cultural icons and a global payments leader to make digital payments more accessible, convenient and relevant to millions of consumers in support of the Central Bank’s 2027 cashless agenda.

Launched in the DRC in September 2025, Visa Pay is an interoperable payments and ecommerce solution that enables consumers to pay, get paid and move money through a dedicated mobile app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, as well as directly within the mobile applications of participating banks, mobile operators and fintechs.

Through this collaboration, Fally Ipupa will champion Visa Pay through consumer campaigns, exclusive digital content, public appearances and community engagement initiatives designed to inspire more consumers to embrace the benefits of digital payments. By connecting Visa Pay with one of Africa’s leading cultural voices, the partnership also reflects Visa’s ambition to engage more closely with the continent’s music and creative industries, and to support the growing role of creators and entrepreneurs in Africa’s digital economy.

Visa Pay is currently available through Access Bank, Sofibanque, Solidaire Banque, and UBA, enabling consumers to open an account and receive a free digital Visa card through these participating financial institutions on the Visa Pay app. Trust Merchant Bank Pepele customers can also access Visa Pay directly within the Pepele app. Several other financial institutions are currently integrating the platform, reinforcing ecosystem-wide adoption and accelerating the Central Bank’s 2027 ambitions.

The solution allows consumers to use their Visa Pay digital card to pay for goods and services online. Consumers can also send money to another Visa Pay user using a registered mobile number, without having to enter bank account details. With an eligible phone, consumers can tap to pay at contactless payment terminals, making in-store payments faster and removing the need to carry cash or present a physical card.

“Mr. Fally Ipupa embodies innovation, ambition and progress, values that are deeply aligned with Visa’s mission to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid,” said Sophie Kafuti, Managing Director, Visa DRC. “His influence extends beyond music. He connects generations, uplifts communities and audiences across Africa and the diaspora. This partnership is rooted not only in his reach, but also in our shared belief that creativity and technology can open new opportunities. Together, we will help more consumers discover how simple, secure and convenient digital payments can be, while strengthening Visa’s engagement with Africa’s creative economy.

“Music has always been about bringing people together, creating opportunities and inspiring people to dream bigger. I see the same potential in digital innovation. I am proud to partner with Visa Pay and I hope to encourage more Congolese consumers to embrace the digital economy, connect to new opportunities and participate in the future with confidence.” said Fally Ipupa.

The announcement comes as Visa continues to invest in innovative solutions that empower consumers, merchants, mobile operators and financial institutions across Africa. By combining payment technology with cultural relevance and trusted voices, Visa Pay aims to make digital payments more accessible and meaningful in consumers’ everyday lives.

– on behalf of Visa Inc..

Media Contacts:
​Visa: Yvan Guehi –  yguehi@visa.com

Social media:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4rmXlSl
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/3Vrnfs9

About Visa Inc.:
Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities in more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling people, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, lift everyone everywhere, and we see access as fundamental to the future of the movement of money. Find out more about www.Visa.co.in.

About Visa Pay:
Visa Pay is an interoperable digital payments solution designed to make everyday payments and money movement simpler and more convenient for consumers in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Available through the Visa Pay app with UBA, Access Bank, Sofibanque and Solidaire Banque, and directly within the TMB Pepele app, the solution allows consumers to open an account and receive a free digital Visa card through participating financial institutions, pay for goods and services online, send money using a registered mobile number without needing bank-account details, and, with an eligible smartphone, make fast and secure contactless payments in stores through Tap to Pay.

Visa Pay is available as a dedicated mobile app on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Participating banks can also integrate Visa Pay features directly into their own mobile applications.

Download Visa Pay: https://apo-opa.co/4yhkgkD

Source: APO – Report:

• New weekly B767/F Bahrain-Johannesburg service strengthens Sub-Saharan Africa connectivity and supports growing trade flows between Africa, the Gulf and global markets

DHL Express (www.DHL.com) has marked an important milestone in its regional aviation network with the successful operation of the first direct DHL flight between Bahrain and South Africa.

The inaugural flight arrived at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, opening a new weekly aviation lane operated by a DHL Express B767/F freighter. The route reinforces DHL’s continued investment in strengthening Sub-Saharan Africa network connectivity, expanding heavier-weight capability, improving flexibility and supporting growing trade flows between the Middle East and Africa.

As trade between Africa and the Middle East develops, businesses need resilient, well-connected logistics networks. The new service provides greater inbound and outbound capacity for South Africa and neighbouring countries through the DHL Johannesburg Hub, one of the company’s key gateways on the continent.

The investment also reflects shifting global supply chains, as companies diversify sourcing, manufacturing and customer markets beyond traditional corridors. Bahrain’s position as a gateway between Africa, the Gulf and Asia make it an important link for businesses seeking faster access to international markets.

“Every new connection we introduce is designed with our customers in mind. As global trade routes diversify and economic ties between Africa and the Middle East continue to strengthen, we are seeing powerful geographical tailwinds creating new opportunities for businesses. Demand is growing across sectors such as healthcare, technology, manufacturing and cross-border e-commerce, all of which rely on fast, reliable international logistics,” said Anthony Beckley, Vice President of Operations and Aviation for DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa.

“While this first direct DHL flight between Bahrain and South Africa is a significant network milestone, its real value lies in the opportunities it creates for customers.”

South Africa is one of DHL’s Geographic Tailwinds markets, reflecting its growing role in global trade flows and its potential to drive future trade growth. And Johannesburg remains a critical gateway in DHL’s SSA network, linking South Africa and neighbouring markets to global opportunities through Bahrain and the wider DHL aviation network. Through continued investment in routes, aircraft capacity and hub connectivity, DHL is supporting customers across this dynamic lane.

“DHL Express is the only logistics provider operating a dedicated intra-regional air fleet across the Middle East, connecting customers through Bahrain with major global gateways including Hong Kong, Leipzig and Cincinnati,” said Richard Gale, Vice President of Aviation, DHL Express MENA.

“Bahrain’s position at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East makes it an ideal hub for customers seeking faster, more reliable access across these growing trade corridors. We are pleased to add this direct Johannesburg connection as economic ties between Africa and the Gulf deepen.”

DHL remains committed to helping customers seize opportunities created by changing trade patterns and expanding economic relationships.

– on behalf of DHL Express.

Media Contact:
Lerato Moeletsi-Banda
E-mail: lerato.moeletsi-banda@dhl.com

DHL – The logistics company for the world:
DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivaled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With approximately 389,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.

DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of approximately 82.9 billion euros in 2025. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.

Source: APO – Report:

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Growing up in Djibouti, Lt. Col. Ahmed Adan Abdullahi dreamed of becoming a military officer, a childhood ambition he realised years later.

Today, Lt. Col. Ahmed commands the 13th Djiboutian National Defence Forces (DNDF) Battalion serving under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) in Sector 4. Based in Beletweyne, he oversees Djiboutian forces deployed across Beletweyne, Buula Burde, Jalalaqsi and Dhusamareb.

For Lt. Col. Ahmed, becoming a military officer is not simply a career achievement. It is the fulfilment of a long-held dream and an opportunity to serve his country and support the people of Somalia.

“I joined the military for two reasons: one is to defend my country by being part of the Djibouti National Defence Forces, and the other is that my ambition has always been to be an officer which I finally became one. I am grateful to God for this favour,” he said.

Lt. Col. Ahmed completed his primary, secondary and tertiary education in Djibouti before undertaking military training in Sudan. He has extensive experience in Somalia, having previously served under the African Union missions in Buula Burde from 2015 to 2017 and in Dhusamareb from 2021 to 2022.

Those previous deployments have given him valuable knowledge of the operating environment and communities where Djiboutian forces serve. Today, as commander of the 13th Battalion, that experience is helping him lead his troops and carry out his responsibilities more effectively.

His days are demanding and begin early, reflecting the responsibilities that come with commanding troops deployed across a wide area. The Djiboutian contingent is part of AUSSOM’s efforts to support Somalia’s security and stabilisation, while working alongside Somali Security Forces (SSF) and communities.

According to Lt. Col. Ahmed, Djiboutian forces have played an important role in security operations in Hiiraan region and beyond. The forces first deployed in Beletweyne in 2012 and have since participated in operations that led to the liberation of several towns including Beletweyne, Bula Burde and Jalalaqsi.

He said theses victories have not come without sacrifice. Some soldiers paid the ultimate price during operations to liberate towns and protect communities from Al-Shabaab.

“Our forces lost many soldiers in the liberation of the towns,” Lt. Col. Ahmed said. “Up to now, the Djiboutian forces are standing with Somalia to defend, support and be with the Somali public to defend them against Al-Shabaab brutality.”

For Lt. Col. Ahmed, the commitment to Somalia extends beyond military operations. He believes Djibouti’s support will continue until Somali security institutions are strong enough to handle the country’s security responsibilities.

A key strength of the Djiboutian contingent, he explained, is its close relationship with local communities. Djibouti and Somalia share strong cultural, linguistic and religious ties, helping soldiers communicate easily with the communities they serve.

“The Djiboutian contingent is very close to the locals since they share the same language and religion. That has helped us a lot,” Lt. Col. Ahmed said.

For him, the mission is therefore more than military service. It is about fulfilling his childhood dream in Djibouti while contributing to the security and stability of a neighbouring country.

– on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

Source: APO – Report:

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The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) continues to monitor the 2026 sardine mortality event. No renewed widespread mortality has been reported. The only new report during the past week was an isolated fresh sardine stranding near Mbotyi on the northern Wild Coast on 11 September 2026.

The temporary precautionary fisheries measure implemented on 11 September 2026 remains in force until 2 October 2026. During this period, each right holder may land no more than 25% of its outstanding 2026 directed sardine total allowable catch. The measure applies west and east of Cape Agulhas while monitoring and scientific work continue.

The available evidence did not indicate that the mortality had reduced the sardine population sufficiently to warrant complete closure. The current measure in place is precautionary and time-limited, and can be reviewed sooner if conditions deteriorate.

Industry has confirmed that strong winds prevented recent fishing west of Cape Agulhas and that fishing opportunities in Algoa Bay were also limited by the weather. Only one catch of sardine, amounting to 26 tonnes has been taken since the beginning of September.

Pilchard herpesvirus remains the strongest identified biological factor associated with the event and has been confirmed in affected sardines from the Western Cape and Algoa Bay. Monitoring, sampling and laboratory investigations are continuing.

Earlier KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) samples tested negative for PHV, but only a small number were tested. Additional samples are expected and are important for determining whether that result is consistent across a broader sample.

If these also test negative, this will support, but not prove, that the event did not extend into KZN, consistent with the reported mortality front ending before it reached the province. No effects on sardine-dependent seabirds or marine mammals have been confirmed.

The Small Pelagic Scientific Working Group will meet on 29 September 2026 to review the available evidence and reconsider management of the fishery before the temporary measure ends. The planned October/November hydroacoustic survey will provide the first fisheries-independent estimate of sardine biomass and distribution following the event.

PHV is a fish virus and is not known to infect people. Commercially produced sardine products released through regulated channels remain safe. Members of the public should nevertheless not collect or consume dead or dying sardines found on beaches or floating near shore, feed them to pets, or use them as bait.

– on behalf of South African Government.

Source: APO – Report:

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His Majesty King Letsie III has arrived in New York, USA, ahead of the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

The theme for the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly is “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all”.

At the global level, His Majesty is the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) Goodwill Ambassador for Nutrition while continetantally he is  the African Union (AU) Champion for Nutrition.

– on behalf of Government of Lesotho.

Source: APO – Report:

“Lasting peace is built through listening, mutual trust, and respect for others.”

This passionate belief inspires Captain Djamilla Pelagie Balak’we Seibou as she travels across Western Equatoria meeting local leaders and communities to hear their concerns, challenges, and hopes for the future.

For Djamilla, peacebuilding starts on the frontlines.

A member of the Benin Armed Forces for 16 years, Djamilla now serves thousands of kilometres from home as a Military Observer with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Her work involves monitoring and analyzing the security situation as well as engaging with communities and local authorities in support of the peace process.

Behind the patrols and reports are people affected by conflict, but relentlessly hopeful for a safer future.

When Djamilla arrived in Yambio, the landscape and aspects of the local culture reminded her of Benin. But it was the people and their stories that resonated most.

For her, being present in these communities matters.

“On several occasions, our presence in the field has reassured local populations and strengthened their sense of security.”

Her understanding of service began early. At 10, Djamilla enrolled at the General Mathieu Kérékou Military High School for Girls in Benin. Inspired by her father, a senior military officer, she came to see military service as a commitment to something greater than oneself.

“I joined the military out of a calling to serve and a desire to contribute to the security and well-being of my country.”

Sixteen years in uniform have also shown her the human cost of conflict and the sacrifices soldiers make.

“I fully understand the value of peace and the price that sometimes must be paid to preserve it.”

That experience guides her work in South Sudan, where rebuilding trust and preventing conflict require patience.

As a woman peacekeeper, she believes her presence fosters open dialogue with women and children and considers women’s participation essential for lasting peace.

“Women have their rightful place in the armed forces, in peace operations, and in any field where they wish to serve and contribute to the development of their country.”

Her own journey in a traditionally male-dominated profession has required perseverance and confidence. She hopes her example will encourage others to pursue similar roles in peace and security.

Djamilla finds the hardest part of her mission is being away from home.

“Being away from my family, particularly my daughter, is certainly the most difficult aspect.”

In Western Equatoria, she meets families who share her hopes for her daughter: safety, stability, and a future without fear and full of opportunities.

When Djamilla returns home, she will carry lessons in cooperation and peace, as well as memories of those who believe in a better future.

On the International Day of Peace, her story reminds us that peace is not simply the absence of conflict. It is built through everyday acts of listening, understanding, and rebuilding trust.

– on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Source: APO – Report:

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The Right Honourable, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho (KoL), Mr Ntsokoane Samuel Matekane, arrived on Sunday 20th September 2026 in New York, in the United States of America (USA) for the 81st United Nations General Assembly.

Prime Minister Matekane follows in the footsteps of His Majesty King Letsie III who arrived in the New York a day before him.Prime Minisster`s delegation to the august event includes among others, the Minister of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation as well as several government officials.

– on behalf of Government of Lesotho.