Category: Africa

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A Senadora Drª Rasha Kelej mantem encontro com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas para destacar o compromisso da Fundação Merck em fornecer bolsas de estudo para médicos locais em 44 especialidades críticas e carentes

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), O braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha destacou o seu compromisso de longo prazo com o desenvolvimento da capacidade de assistência médica e a eliminação do estigma da infertilidade nas Maldivas durante a sua reunião de alto nível com Sua Excelência, Sra. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, Primeira-Dama da República das Maldivas, realizada na Residência Oficial do Presidente. O debate foi liderado pelo Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, ​​Presidente do Conselho de Curadores da Fundação Merck, e pela Senadora, Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck.

A Senadora Drª Rasha Kelej declarou: “Foi uma honra manter encontro com a minha querida irmã, S. Exa. Sra. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, Primeira-Dama da República das Maldivas, e nomeá-la oficialmente Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais Que uma Mãe”. Durante a nossa reunião, discutimos os nossos programas conjuntos e destacamos o nosso compromisso com o desenvolvimento de capacidade de atendimento à saúde e a transformação do cenário de atendimento aos pacientes, por meio da concessão de bolsas de estudo para médicos locais. Também discutimos a abordagem de questões sociais e de saúde críticas no país, incluindo a quebra do estigma da infertilidade, o combate à violência do género, o empoderamento feminino e a conscientização sobre diabetes e hipertensão. ”

S.E. Sra. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, Primeira Dama da República das Maldivas e Embaixadora da “Fundação Merck Mais do que uma Mãe” expressou: “É um prazer receber e conhecer o Presidente e CEO da Fundação Merck em nosso país. Discutimos nossos programas conjuntos. Tenho o prazer de informar que já começamos a oferecer bolsas de estudo para nossos médicos locais em treinamento em Fertilidade e Embriologia. Essas são duas especialidades muito importantes para o nosso país. Também planejamos matricular nossos médicos em outras especialidades, reforçando ainda mais nossa parceria com a Fundação Merck para aprimorar a capacidade de assistência médica nas Maldivas. ”

O Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, ​​Presidente do Conselho de Administração da Fundação Merck, declarou: “O nosso objectivo é melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar geral das pessoas, desenvolvendo a capacidade de assistência médica em África, Ásia e outros países em desenvolvimento. Estamos fortemente comprometidos em transformar o cenário de atendimento ao paciente através do nosso programa de bolsas de estudo. Até hoje, concedemos mais de 2.270 bolsas de estudo a jovens médicos de 52 países em 44 especialidades críticas e carentes. ”

Durante a sua visita às Maldivas, o Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck também mantiveram encontro com o Honorável Dr. Sr. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, Ministro da Saúde, onde discutiram a ampliação dos programas de bolsas de estudo, em consonância com as necessidades de saúde do país.

Através dos seus Programas de Conscientização Comunitária, a Fundação Merck também está a trabalhar em estreita colaboração com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas para abordar uma ampla gama de questões sociais críticas, como a eliminação do estigma da infertilidade, o combate à violência do género e o empoderamento feminino, além de importantes questões de saúde, como a promoção da importância de um estilo de vida saudável e a conscientização sobre a diabetes e a hipertensão.

Em breve, a Fundação Merck realizará o seu Treinamento em Mídia da Saúde, juntamente com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas, para jornalistas maldivos, a fim de enfatizar o importante papel que a mídia desempenha na influência da sociedade, criando uma mudança cultural e sendo a voz dos que não têm voz. O programa de treinamento será ministrado por renomados especialistas médicos e de mídia.

Além disso, a Fundação Merck, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas, também lançou os seus 8 importantes Prémios da Fundação Merck de Jornalismo, Canção, Moda, Cinema, para estudantes e novos talentos em potencial das Maldivas nessas áreas.

“Convido os jovens talentos das Maldivas a partilharem as suas candidaturas conosco”, acrescentou a Senadora Drª Kelej.

Informações sobre os Prémios:

  1. Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Representantes e estudantes da mídia são convidados a apresentar os seus trabalhos para aumentar a conscientização sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade e o empoderamento das mulheres. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2025.
  1. Prémio de Moda Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Todos os estudantes e estilistas de moda são convidados a criar e partilhar designs para transmitir mensagens fortes e influentes para aumentar a conscientização sobre uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade e o empoderamento feminino. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2025.
  1. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Todos os cineastas, estudantes de instituições de treinamento em produção cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África são convidados a criar e partilhar um FILME longo ou curto, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama para transmitir mensagens fortes e influentes para abordar uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade e o empoderamento feminino. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2025.
  1. Prémio da Canção Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, “Mais do Que uma Mãe” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais são convidados a criar e partilhar uma MÚSICA com o objectivo de abordar uma ou mais das seguintes questões sociais: Quebrar o estigma da infertilidade e o empoderamento feminino. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de setembro de 2025.

  1. Prémio de Jornalismo Fundação Merck “Diabetes & Hipertensão” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Representantes da mídia são convidados a mostrar os seus trabalhos através de mensagens fortes e influentes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce de diabetes e hipertensão. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2025.

  1. Prémio de Moda Fundação Merck “Diabetes & Hipertensão” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Todos os estudantes e estilistas de moda são convidados a criar e partilhar designs para transmitir mensagens fortes e influentes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e aumentar a conscientização sobre a prevenção e a detecção precoce de diabetes e hipertensão. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2025.

  1. Prémio do Cinema Fundação Merck “Diabetes & Hipertensão” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Todos os cineastas, estudantes de instituições de formação cinematográfica ou jovens talentos da África são convidados a criar e partilhar um FILME longo ou curto, seja drama, documentário ou docudrama para transmitir mensagens fortes e influentes para promover um estilo de vida saudável e conscientizar sobre a prevenção e detecção precoce da diabetes e da hipertensão. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2025.

  1. Prémio da Canção Fundação Merck “Diabetes & Hipertensão” 2025, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama das Maldivas: Todos os cantores e artistas musicais estão convidados a criar e partilhar uma MÚSICA com o objectivo de promover um estilo de vida saudável e conscientizar sobre a prevenção e detecção precoce de diabetes e hipertensão. Prazo final para submissão: 30 de outubro de 2025.

As candidaturas para os prémios acima podem ser enviadas para nós em: submit@merck-foundation.com

Para informações sobre os prémios, visite o nosso site: www.Merck-Foundation.com

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

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

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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 (https://apo-opa.co/4lH9762), X (https://apo-opa.co/4kuBVNZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3Imd8hQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/466FO8w), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4nOfvu8) e Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/44MJeel).

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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Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej meets the Maldives First Lady to underscore Merck Foundation’s Commitment to provide scholarships for Local Doctors in 44 critical and underserved specialties

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany underscored their long-term commitment to build healthcare capacity and break infertility stigma in Maldives during their high-level meeting with H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, held at the Official Residence of the President. The discussion led by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It was an honor to meet my dear sister H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and officially appointing her to be the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During our meeting we discussed our joint programs and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local doctors. We also discussed about addressing critical social and health issues in the country including breaking the infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence, women empowerment, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.”

H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. We discussed our joint programs. I am happy to share that we have already started providing scholarships for our local doctors in Fertility and Embryology training. These are two very critical specialties for our country. We also plan to enroll our doctors in other specialties, further underscoring our partnership with the Merck Foundation to enhance healthcare capacity in the Maldives.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT shared, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program. Till today, we have provided more than 2270 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties.”

During their visit to the Maldives, the Chairman and CEO of Merck Foundation also met with Hon. Mr. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, Minister of Health, where they discussed scaling up the scholarship programs in alignment with the country’s healthcare needs.

Through their Community Awareness Programs, Merck Foundation is also closely working with The First Lady of Maldives to address a wide range of critical social issues like breaking infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence and women empowerment, and important health issues including promoting the importance of healthy lifestyle, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.

Merck Foundation will be soon conducting their Health Media Training together with The First Lady of Maldives for the Maldivian journalists, to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift and be the voice of the voiceless. The training program will be addressed by prominent Medical and Media experts.

Moreover, Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives has also launched their 8 important Merck Foundation Awards for Maldivian Media, Musicians & Singers, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, and students & new potential talents in these fields.

“I invite the young talents from the Maldives to share their entries with us,” added Senator Dr. Kelej.

Details of the Awards:

  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at: submit@merck-foundation.com

For information on the awards, please visit our website: www.Merck-Foundation.com

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
+91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
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 (https://apo-opa.co/4lH9762), X (https://apo-opa.co/4kuBVNZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3Imd8hQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/466FO8w), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4nOfvu8) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/44MJeel).

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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Forvis Mazars s’étend en Afrique et devient partenaire Gold de l’African Energy Week (AEW) 2025


Forvis Mazars, un cabinet international d’audit, d’assurance, de fiscalité, de conseil et de services consultatifs, renforce son engagement en faveur du développement énergétique de l’Afrique grâce à des partenariats stratégiques, à l’expansion de ses marchés et à son expertise financière qui stimule la croissance énergétique sur tout le continent. Né de la fusion entre Mazars et Forvis, ce réseau mondial de services professionnels étend sa présence en Afrique avec de nouveaux bureaux au Nigeria, au Zimbabwe et au Burkina Faso, portant ainsi à 26 le nombre de ses implantations sur le continent.

En tant que partenaire Gold de la conférence « Invest in African Energies » de l’African Energy Week (AEW) de cette année, le cabinet joue un rôle clé dans l’amélioration de la gouvernance d’entreprise, le renforcement de la bancabilité des projets et la facilitation des investissements à long terme sur le marché énergétique africain. L’AEW 2025 : Invest in African Energies se tiendra du 29 septembre au 3 octobre au Cap sous le thème « Positionner l’Afrique comme champion mondial de l’énergie ».

Au Nigeria, Forvis Mazars a récemment lancé à Lagos une société de conseil financier mondial de 5 milliards de dollars, créant ainsi une passerelle vers des services financiers de classe mondiale pour soutenir le développement de projets locaux. Au Zimbabwe, le cabinet a ouvert ses portes alors que le pays venait de faire sa deuxième découverte de gaz dans le puits Mukuyu-2, s’alignant ainsi sur la croissance du secteur en amont. Par ailleurs, l’ouverture de nouveaux bureaux à Ouagadougou, au Burkina Faso, reflète l’intérêt stratégique de la société pour le secteur énergétique en plein essor de l’Afrique de l’Ouest, alors que des projets tels que le champ pétrolier de Sangomar au Sénégal et le terminal méthanier Greater Tortue Ahmeyim, situé à cheval sur la frontière maritime entre le Sénégal et la Mauritanie, prennent de l’ampleur.

Forvis Mazars aide les acteurs du secteur de l’énergie avec des services de conseil financier complets qui permettent de créer de la valeur à chaque étape du cycle de vie d’un projet. De l’audit des projets GNL au conseil en fiscalité énergétique dans les régions riches en pétrole, le cabinet combine une connaissance approfondie de la région avec des normes d’excellence mondiales. Son rôle sur le marché africain de l’énergie devrait se renforcer avec la demande croissante de pratiques financières transparentes, durables et conformes.

En tant que conseiller de confiance des gouvernements, des promoteurs et des multinationales, Forvis Mazars est devenu un catalyseur essentiel des investissements énergétiques et du développement économique. Sa participation en tant que partenaire Gold à AEW 2025 : Invest in African Energies souligne le rôle central du cabinet dans l’élaboration du paysage énergétique africain grâce à des conseils financiers rigoureux, au renforcement des capacités et au soutien au secteur privé.

« La participation de Forvis Mazars en tant que partenaire Gold à l’AEW 2025 souligne le rôle essentiel que joue l’expertise financière dans l’accélération du développement énergétique en Afrique. Sa présence renforce le lien entre les normes d’investissement mondiales et l’exécution des projets locaux, garantissant la transparence et la création de valeur à long terme. Nous sommes fiers d’accueillir un partenaire aussi profondément engagé dans l’avenir énergétique de l’Afrique », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’African Energy Chamber.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

À propos de l’African Energy Week:
AEW : Invest in African Energies est la plateforme de choix pour les opérateurs de projets, les financiers, les fournisseurs de technologies et les gouvernements, et s’est imposée comme le lieu officiel pour signer des accords dans le domaine de l’énergie en Afrique. Rendez-vous sur www.AECWeek.com pour plus d’infos sur cet événement passionnant.

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Forvis Mazars Expands Across Africa, Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Gold Partner

Source: APO – Report:

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Forvis Mazars – a global audit, assurance, tax, advisory and consulting services firm – is strengthening its commitment to Africa’s energy development through strategic partnerships, market expansion and financial expertise that drives energy growth across the continent. Formed through the merger of Mazars and Forvis, the global professional services network is expanding its footprint in Africa with new offices in Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Burkina Faso, bringing its total presence to 26 countries across the continent.

As a Gold Partner of this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference, the firm plays a key role in enhancing corporate governance, boosting project bankability and facilitating long-term investment in Africa’s energy market. AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies will take place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town under the theme Positioning Africa as the Global Energy Champion.

In Nigeria, Forvis Mazars recently launched a $5 billion global financial advisory firm in Lagos, creating a gateway to world-class financial services to support local project development. In Zimbabwe, the firm opened operations amid the country’s second gas discovery at the Mukuyu-2 well, aligning with upstream sector growth. Meanwhile, new offices in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso reflect the firm’s strategic focus on West Africa’s booming energy sector, as projects such as Senegal’s Sangomar oilfield and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG terminal – straddling the maritime border between Senegal and Mauritania – gain momentum.

Forvis Mazars supports energy stakeholders with end-to-end financial advisory services that unlock value at every stage of the project lifecycle. From audits for LNG ventures to advising on energy taxation in oil-rich regions, the firm combines deep regional knowledge with global standards of excellence. Its role in Africa’s energy market is expected to grow alongside increasing demand for transparent, sustainable and compliant financial practices.

As a trusted advisor to governments, developers and multinationals, Forvis Mazars has become a critical enabler of energy investment and economic development. Its participation as a gold partner at AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies highlights the firm’s pivotal role in shaping Africa’s energy landscape through rigorous financial guidance, capacity building and private sector support.

“Forvis Mazars’ participation as a gold partner at AEW 2025 underscores the vital role financial expertise plays in accelerating energy development across Africa. Their presence strengthens the bridge between global investment standards and local project execution, ensuring transparency and long-term value creation. We are proud to welcome a partner so deeply committed to Africa’s energy future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About African Energy Week:
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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Operation Vulindlela Progress Report shows momentum on economic reform

Source: APO – Report:

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The Presidency and National Treasury have today, 11 July 2025, released a quarterly progress report for Q1 2025/26 on the implementation of economic reform through Operation Vulindlela. This report is the first to be released since the launch of Phase II of Operation Vulindlela this year.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of The Presidency and National Treasury, which aims to achieve more rapid and inclusive economic growth through a programme of far-reaching economic reform.

Phase I of Operation Vulindlela focused on unlocking progress in five priority areas: electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system. These reforms were selected for their high potential to catalyse investment, enhance economic competitiveness, and create jobs. Phase II represents a second wave of structural reform aimed at unlocking more rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth. While continuing to drive implementation of reforms initiated during Phase I, the second phase introduces new focus areas that respond to evolving challenges in the economy.

The report released today demonstrates sustained progress in the economic reform agenda, which serves as a counter to strong economic headwinds. Key milestones during the past quarter include the publication of a Ministerial Determination and associated regulations to enable the first round of Independent Transmission Projects, as well as a Request for Information for major private sector participation (PSP) projects in the freight logistics sector.

Progress has also been made in the new areas of reform included in Phase II, with a comprehensive review of the White Paper on Local Government to reform the local government system and the introduction of a performance-based financing mechanism to support the reform of municipal water and electricity services. The Digital Transformation Roadmap has been approved by Cabinet and is in implementation, with the development of a digital identity system and other core elements of the roadmap already advanced.

Further details on progress in each of the reform areas is available in the full report, which can be accessed here. https://www.stateofthenation.gov.za/operation-vulindlela

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Republic of Korea rice donation provides critical boost to World Food Programme (WFP)’s emergency response for refugees in Kenya

Source: APO – Report:

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The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a contribution of 23,268 metric tons of rice from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of the Republic of Korea, valued at US$18 million, to support the food needs of refugees in Kenya.

This contribution – the largest from the Republic of Korea since it began supporting refugees in Kenya in 2018 – will  support the food needs of 720,000 refugees in Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps and Kalobeyei settlement for six months.

“This generous contribution is vital as we work to respond to the needs of an increasing number of refugees in Kenya, while the resources available to support them are decreasing,” said Baimankay Sankoh, WFP’s Deputy Country Director in Kenya. “Most refugees are unable to work or return home and are entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance to survive. This generous rice contribution from the Republic of Korea is more vital than ever for WFP to continue supporting the food needs of hundreds of thousands of refugees. And we sincerely hope that this expanded rice contribution will continue in the future.” 

Over the past five years, the number of refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya has increased by over 70 percent – from around 500,000 to 843,000 – as people have fled conflict in neighbouring countries like Somalia and South Sudan. But, despite the generous support from many donors, funding shortfalls have forced WFP to reduce food rations for refugees to one-third of a ration.

Korean rice is known for its high quality, while the reliable delivery from the Republic of Korea on a fixed annual schedule, allows WFP to plan effectively and respond flexibly to shifting needs on the ground. This predictable support contributes to safeguarding the dignity of refugees by ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food.

“The Republic of Korea is proud to stand alongside other nations in responding to the rising hunger crisis and providing hope to thousands of families in the eastern Africa region,” said H.E. Kang Hyung-shik, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya. “Our history is deeply rooted in global solidarity, and we remain committed to standing with those in need.”

The Republic of Korea is a significant donor to WFP in Kenya, providing annual rice contributions that help WFP maintain consistent humanitarian operations. Between 2018 and 2025, WFP has received rice contributions to the value of US$ 88 million through MAFRA in support of refugees.

– on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

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Les jeunes de Sibut à l’école de l’entrepreneuriat


En prélude à la remise officielle d’un Centre CVR de Développement Communautaire (CDC), nouvellement construit à Sibut à l’intention des jeunes, un atelier de renforcement des capacités a été récemment organisé à leur profit. Objectif : leur transmettre les compétences nécessaires à la création et à la gestion durable de micro-entreprises.

Le centre CVR se veut un espace d’apprentissage pour soutenir l’insertion économique des jeunes à travers des activités génératrices de revenus (AGR). Aussi, l’atelier a-t-il couvert des thématiques essentiels tels la création d’entreprise, la gestion financière simple, le réinvestissement et l’accès au marché local.

Un accent particulier a été mis sur le leadership communautaire, la communication, et le marketing local. Les jeunes ont été encouragés à devenir des leaders positifs, à bien valoriser leurs produits et à renforcer leur visibilité grâce aux moyens de communication disponibles.

La pérennisation des AGR a été au cœur des échanges : bonne gestion, mentorat, solidarité communautaire et suivi participatif sont les clés du succès à long terme. La remise prochaine des kits AGR viendra compléter cet accompagnement global.

La Gouverneure de la région du Kémo, Lucienne Baka, qui a présidé l’ouverture et la clôture de l’atelier, a salué cette initiative en soulignant qu’« Apprendre un métier, c’est important, mais la bonne gestion et le leadership inclusif sont les vraies clés de la réussite entrepreneuriale ».

Avec cet appui, les jeunes de Sibut deviennent des acteurs du développement local et de la paix durable.

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

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Government to increase sexual offences courts 

Source: Government of South Africa

Government to increase sexual offences courts 

Government is set to increase the national footprint of sexual offences courts as part of the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“Going forward, we will increase the national footprint of sexual offences courts, particularly in rural communities with additional 16 sexual offences courts to be established in line with the recent amendments to the law and two additional TCCs (Thuthuzela Care Centers). 

“The Sexual Offences Courts shall assist to deal with the alarming figures of sexual violence in the country and offer support services that are tailor-made for the survivors of sex crime,” Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said.

This as she tabled the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Budget Vote on Wednesday.
The Minister said that GBVF continues to devastate individuals and communities. 

“We have a duty to do all that we can to protect the victims of gender-based violence, especially women and children. In this connection, the department has adopted a victim biased and victim centric approach which puts the victim first to avoid case bungling which gets perpetrators off the hook and secondary victimisation.”

This as over the  2024-25 period, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) recorded 3 697 convictions in relation to sexual offence with over 79% convicted with direct imprisonment, while 44 147 victims were supported at the 66 TCCs across the country. 

“In collaboration with [the] SAPS [South African Police Service], the DNA project has processed 60 518 DNA samples to track and deal with repeat sexual offenders and serial rapists.”

Additionally, the department will ensure that all convicted sex offenders are registered in the National Register for Sexual Offenders (NRSO) and initiate a process to review legislation that is currently an inhibitor to the public release of this register. 

The department further plans to ensure that protection orders are served by the clerk of the court on the respondent no later than 24 hours from the time the order is received by the clerk of the court.

TRC matters 

On matters related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), the Minister said it was important for all of society to work together to heal the divisions of the past. 

“The TRC made recommendations and in June 2003, Parliament approved the granting of reparations to TRC identified victims in respect of final reparation in the form of a once-off grant of R30 000,00; medical benefits and other forms of social assistance; symbols and monuments; and rehabilitation of communities for purposes of contributing to healing the wounds of the past and restoring human dignity.”

She added that the total amount paid to individuals as interim reparations stands at almost R53 million while the total amount paid for the final once-off individual grants is just below R500 million.

In basic education, the total number of learners funded is 11934 and the payments made to the beneficiaries in respect of this reparation is about R137 million.

The total number of students funded is 1922 and the payments made to the beneficiaries in respect of this reparation is R132 million.

“[The] Gallows Exhumation project out of a total of 180 remains recovered including missing persons, gallows and other cases 76 have been handed over to families and will conclude two that are remaining this year.

On TRC related criminal cases and inquest work, there are total of 158 separate investigations. There are a total seven reopened inquests, 10 formal inquests, six finalised inquests, four pending inquests and two convictions.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has established A Judicial Commission of Inquiry into allegations regarding efforts or attempts were made to stop the investigation or prosecution of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission cases to be chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe,” said the Minister.

READ | President establishes commission of inquiry into delay in TRC cases

The establishment of the commission of inquiry is part of an agreement reached in settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes. 

Fighting fraud and corruption

On matters related to the fight against fraud, the department will increase efforts towards disrupting and reducing the effects of organised crime through a multi-stakeholder approach. It will collaborate closely with key partners, including the SAPS, Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS). 

“The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the NPA successfully recovered over R3.9 billion in ill-gotten gains through the implementation of the Corporate Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanism, thus ensuring that persons and entities do not benefit from unlawful activities and corruption.”

In the financial year 2024/25, the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) recovered a cash value of more than R833 million, assets to the value of R 1.3 billion, set aside irregular contracts worth R 5.6 billion and prevented potential loss to the state to tune R 2.7 billion.

“The establishment of the Special Tribunal has allowed for expedited resolutions and substantial recovery for the state, showcasing the Unit’s effectiveness. The SIU will also enhance its anti-corruption through among others establishing a dedicated Lifestyle Audit Unit as a permanent capability to enhance its mandate in detecting unexplained wealth and preventing corrupt practices.”

“This initiative includes the acquisition of an advanced lifestyle audit analytics tool that will increase efficiency and enable high-quality, evidence-based reporting. The Unit will ensure protection of whistle-blowers and SIU personnel integral to upholding the integrity of anti-corruption efforts,” said Kubayi. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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Berg winds in South Africa: the winter weather pattern that increases wildfire risks

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Sheldon Strydom, Senior Lecturer & Head of Department, Department of Geography, Rhodes University

Winter in some parts of South Africa is a time of low (or no) rainfall and high fire danger. Sheldon Strydom studies the relationship between weather and fire, in particular how Berg winds, also known as mountain flow events, are linked to periods of enhanced fire danger. Mid-July is typically a high risk period. He shares what he has learnt during his research in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa, close to the country’s largest mountain range, the Drakensberg.

What are Berg winds and how do they form?

It’s long been known that mountain winds (“foëhn winds”, “chinook winds” and the like) increase fire danger. There’s case study evidence from around the globe.

In South Africa, these mountain winds are known as Berg winds. They are generally experienced as warm and dry.

A mountain wind starts when a mass of air is forced to rise along a windward slope (the side of the mountain that wind is blowing towards). As the mass of air rises it cools. When it reaches the peak of the slope or mountain it descends on the leeward (sheltered) side. As it gets lower, the air gets warmer.

Berg winds commonly occur in South African winters when high atmospheric pressure systems are situated over the interior of the country and low pressure systems are situated off the coast. (Atmospheric pressure is the pressure of air over the land, and affects the movement of air.)

Usually, a coastal low pressure system happens a day or two before a cold front. The pressure gradient (difference in pressure that drives wind) between the interior high pressure cell and coastal low pressure cell results in air flowing towards the coast from the interior of the country, down the mountain escarpment. The air reaches coastal areas as a warm, dry wind.

Why study the relationship between Berg winds and fires?

Winds can spread fires in the landscape.

Our study, using data from four sites in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, quantified the effect of Berg winds on the microclimate (local weather conditions) and emphasised how these changes influence fire danger.

The sources of fires in South Africa, as elsewhere, vary. For example, wildfires can be started when prescribed burning, or the planned use of fire, becomes uncontrolled due to changes in weather conditions. Accidental fires and arson are the most common causes of wildfires. Research shows that wildfires and fire disasters are common in areas where prescribed burning is used.

Prescribed burning, or the planned use of fire, is an important aspect of agricultural management. It promotes the dispersal and germination of seeds from a number of species and also removes ground litter. Prescribed burning is used to manage grasslands and has been linked to decreasing the number of disease-borne vectors such as ticks.

But if they get out of control, fires pose a threat to farmland and plantations.

It’s therefore vital to have weather forecasts and monitoring systems that warn of conditions conducive to the development and spread of fires.

Internationally, fire danger indices or meters are used to monitor conditions. In South Africa, the South African Weather Service and other interested and affected parties currently use the Lowveld fire danger index. The index is calculated using records of air temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and rainfall. These are measured once a day. Daily forecasts are available from the Weather Service and disseminated to local fire protection associations.

Much research in South Africa has focused on pyrogeography (understanding when and where fires occur) and fire ecology. Little research has been done to quantify the effects of Berg winds on fire danger using available historical hourly meteorological data.

The midlands of KwaZulu-Natal province serve as a perfect environment to study the effects of Berg winds on the microclimate and fire danger. The area is close to the Drakensberg mountains and experiences frequent fires. It’s also a largely agricultural area.

Read more: Southern Africa’s rangelands do many jobs, from feeding cattle to storing carbon: a review of 60 years of research

What did you discover?

The study developed a fuzzy logic system (a mathematical method for handling uncertainty) to identify periods of Berg wind conditions using historical hourly meteorological data in four sites.

We analysed variables like the air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and fire danger at different times of the day and night, before and during Berg winds.

The analysis revealed the significance of change experienced in the local weather conditions (within 2km) during periods of Berg winds, and how these changes influence fire danger.

It found that:

  • Berg winds were more common during daytime hours and affected the microclimate most during the day

  • during daytime Berg wind events, air temperatures rose by an average of 5.5°C; humidity fell by an average of 16%; and wind speed increased by an average of 5.2 metres per second

  • daytime Berg wind events significantly elevated fire danger

  • night-time Berg winds, while less common, did still result in significant change in the microclimate

  • at night, fire danger increases when a combination of variables change significantly.

The fuzzy logic system can be useful in two ways: to quantify the effects of Berg winds on the microclimate and to complement any fire danger monitoring system. It can measure conditions at a higher temporal resolution, such as every 10 minutes, or hour – making it more useful for monitoring near real-time changes in fire danger.

The system could be valuable for operational use by agencies like the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre, and could be applied in other regions vulnerable to fire risk.

– Berg winds in South Africa: the winter weather pattern that increases wildfire risks
– https://theconversation.com/berg-winds-in-south-africa-the-winter-weather-pattern-that-increases-wildfire-risks-260612

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Homegrown innovation leads Africa’s agrifood transformation

Source: APO

African-led science and innovation are at the heart of efforts to transform agrifood systems across the continent. That was the central message of a dedicated side event held during the Regional Policy Dialogue on Strengthening South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSTC) in Africa, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and hosted by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.

The special side event, Scaling Science and Innovation for Resilient Agrifood Systems: African Solutions through South-South and Triangular Cooperation, took place on the second day of the Dialogue and comes in the lead-up to the Science and Innovation Forum during the FAO World Food Forum in October. It brought together African experts, researchers, and policymakers to explore how homegrown innovations can drive agrifood systems transformation across the continent.

Opening the session, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa Abebe Haile-Gabriel underlined the power of science and innovation in transforming agrifood systems in Africa. He urged countries to scale up successful practices through strengthened partnerships and better policy alignment.

“Africa stands today at a defining moment. Our agrifood systems face immense pressure from intensifying climate change, growing scarcity of land and water, frequent pest and disease outbreaks, and persistent post-harvest losses that undermine productivity and incomes. Yet, amidst these challenges, a new generation of African scientists, entrepreneurs, and innovators is reimagining agriculture, its business model, mechanisms of knowledge sharing, and scaling up technologies,” he said.

In the keynote address, Professor Anthony Egeru of the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) highlighted Africa’s untapped potential in homegrown scientific knowledge and innovation. He called for stronger collaboration among African research institutions, noting that intra-African cooperation in science remains limited and must be strengthened to support agrifood system transformation and reduce the continent’s growing food import bill.

Two expert panels followed. The first highlighted scalable technologies already benefiting smallholder farmers. The second explored how science-policy partnerships can create enabling environments for innovation uptake.

Among the innovation champions featured was Innovative Solutions for Decision Agriculture (ISDA), a pan-African company pioneering digital agricultural tools. Their flagship product, the Virtual Agronomist, is a WhatsApp-based AI chatbot that provides farmers with instant, tailored advice on soil health and fertiliser use. The company has already seen a 60 percent yield increase among farmers who use the tool, and their goal is to reach 10 million farmers over the next five years with this context-specific, science-backed guidance.

FAO also showcased its innovation in plant protection through the eLocust3, a real-time data transmission tool used by national locust officers to monitor and control desert locust outbreaks. The tool feeds directly into FAO’s global Desert Locust Information Service, which supports early warning and coordinated response systems across affected countries.

Young innovator Joseph Kawaya from Rwanda (pictured) also presented his work. Initially focused on manufacturing solar-adapted chicken incubators, his business now supports rural cooperatives through a franchised network of hatching stations. “We’re not just selling machines, we’re building rural systems that tackle both malnutrition and lack of access to poultry production,” he said.

FAO South-South Cooperation Officer Peter Anaadumba underscored the importance of enabling environments to support innovation. He stressed that innovators must be supported by strong policy frameworks, sustained financial commitments, and partnerships. South-South and Triangular cooperation, he noted, offers a platform for exchange, but results will only follow when national systems are ready to absorb and scale innovation.

The event reinforced FAO’s commitment to advancing African-led solutions and fostering cross-country learning, setting the stage for deeper engagement at the upcoming Science and Innovation Forum later this year. Science and innovation are central themes in the FAO Strategic Framework 2022–2031, which aims to support countries in transforming agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO): Regional Office for Africa.

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