Category: Africa

Source: APO

Canon today unveils the Canon EOS R8 Mark II (https://apo-opa.co/4yJiqc9), a lightweight full-frame camera that inspires confidence and offers creative freedom.

The Canon EOS R8 Mark II combines portability with full-frame mirrorless camera quality and advanced stabilisation to capture wider views, beautiful background blur and stunning low-light image quality.

Building on the success of the EOS R8, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II responds to the needs of photographers with greater control and capability in a compact body. Made for those who want to explore more, from new places to new creative ideas, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II is a versatile choice for travel photography. It’s easy to carry, simple to use and helps to capture unrepeatable moments.

The distinctly modern design marks a new chapter in the EOS R System. The Canon EOS R8 Mark II carries forward Canon’s design heritage while evolving it into a more contemporary form that meets the needs and preferences of today’s photographers and creators. 

At the heart of the Canon EOS R8 Mark II is a 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor, complemented by a DIGIC X processor. Together, they deliver exceptional clarity, rich colour and impressive dynamic range. A powerful In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS) provides up to 7.5 stops¹ of stability, making it easier to shoot handheld and capture sharp images in low light and on the move without compromising image quality.

With an abundance of creative and performance-focused imaging technology in a compact, stabilised body, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II is well suited to travel photography. Its feature-rich design includes advanced capabilities inherited from high-end EOS R System cameras, such as Register People Priority, which automatically keeps selected individuals in focus, and pre-continuous shooting, which helps capture scenes that unfold in an instant, before the user has time to react.

Ready for every moment of the journey

From spotting wildlife on safari to street performers launching into spectacular tricks and festival crowds throwing colourful powder into the air, the most memorable travel experiences are often fleeting and difficult to photograph. With its 40fps² shooting speed and expanded buffer that can handle up to 73 RAW files in a single burst, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II keeps pace with fast-moving action.

Pre-continuous shooting in H+ mode gives Canon EOS R8 Mark II users the edge during even more unpredictable situations. Recording approximately half a second before the shutter button is fully pressed, it provides up to 20 extra images to help secure the decisive shot. Whether you’re waiting for a crowd to clear at an iconic landmark or anticipating a family member’s reaction to trying a new cuisine, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II captures the shot before your reflexes do.

Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with Deep Learning subject detection automatically recognises and tracks people, animals and vehicles, bringing subjects into sharp focus rapidly with eye, face, head and body tracking. The Canon EOS R8 Mark II’s improved tracking persistence reliably maintains focus even when the subject briefly disappears from view, making it easy to keep travel companions in focus as they move through crowded locations. Autofocus is also possible in light levels as low as EV -7.5³ – the same as the flagship EOS R1 professional camera.

Register People Priority brings additional precision when photographing the people who matter most. Users can register up to 10 faces in the camera and up to 100 on a memory card, allowing the Canon EOS R8 Mark II to automatically recognise registered family members and friends whenever they appear in the frame. It then focuses on them according to the priority set by the user – helping to keep loved ones sharp in busy travel scenes, group shots and spontaneous encounters.

Compact, lightweight, creative

A new streamlined EOS design offers confident, intuitive handling, with customisable buttons, controls and modes enabling users to personalise the Canon EOS R8 Mark II to suit their shooting style. The camera also pairs well with a versatile range of lightweight Canon RF lenses, from the all-purpose RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM (https://apo-opa.co/4rhIh8A) and ultra-fast RF 45mm F1.2 STM (https://apo-opa.co/4dFliys) prime to the compact RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM (https://apo-opa.co/4h6UsjJ) telephoto zoom for wildlife and distant subjects.

Design improvements compared with the EOS R8 include a multi-controller that makes it quicker to operate the camera when shooting handheld. The optional Canon Extension Grip EG-E2 further enhances handling, and features a separate tripod socket plus direct access to the camera battery for added convenience.

Flexible colour tools, including Canon Picture Styles and Filmtone Colour Filters, give photographers the freedom to capture the character of a destination as they experience it – and create images that make the viewer feel as though they are actually there. Additionally, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II’s adjustable, natural-looking Smooth Skin effect makes it easy to create flattering portraits straight from the camera without the need for complex post-processing.

Photographers can also explore the world of immersive three-dimensional images and models. The Canon EOS R8 Mark II is the first camera to include Canon’s new Dual Pixel 3D imaging technology, allowing users to capture JPEGs containing depth information and convert them into 3D content using the free Dual Pixel 3D Converter App for Windows.⁴

The freedom to stay connected

Comprehensive connectivity means Canon EOS R8 Mark II users can share on the go. Wi-Fi® (2.4GHz / 5GHz)⁵ and Bluetooth® 5.3 provide fast and reliable wireless transfer of images and video, while support for the Canon Camera Connect app enables remote shooting and seamless image sharing from a smartphone. Automatic backups and image sorting via www.image.Canon offer peace of mind while travelling.

A high-speed USB-C® port provides up to 10Gbps data transfer, along with USB charging and power delivery, giving users the flexibility to connect via cable when needed. For long days out, the ability to charge on the go and shoot for longer using a power bank adds further convenience. USB livestreaming also highlights the Canon EOS R8 Mark II’s versatility, making it simple to share adventures live while offering the freedom to explore new ways of using the camera over time.

High-quality video and sound recording make the Canon EOS R8 Mark II an ideal hybrid camera for those looking to explore their creativity in new ways. Oversampled 4K video from 6K delivers superior detail, while Full HD shot at up to 180fps opens up the world of slow-motion recording. Cinema View (2.35:1 aspect ratio) and Custom Picture profiles, including Canon Log 3 and HLG, make it simple to achieve a cinematic look, while Movie Digital IS helps maintain stable footage while filming handheld.

The Canon EOS R8 Mark II will appeal to photographers who value the creative possibilities of a full-frame sensor, but don’t want to compromise on portability. Bringing together image quality, speed and creative control in a travel-ready design, it’s a camera that’s ready for every journey.

Key features of the Canon EOS R8 Mark II:

• Lightweight at approximately 499g (546g with card and battery)

• 24.2MP full-frame sensor

• Up to 7.5-stop¹ Coordinated lens and in-body IS

• 40fps² continuous shooting,  with a bigger buffer than the EOS R8

• Pre-continuous shooting in H+ mode up to 20 frames

• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with intelligent subject detection

• Filmtone Colour Filters, Custom Picture and Look File (LUT) support

• Wi-Fi® (2.4GHz / 5GHz)⁵ and Bluetooth® 5.3

• USB-C® connectivity and charging

• Livestreaming options

• Up to 4K 60p video, oversampled from 6K

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

Media enquiries, please contact: 
Canon Central and North Africa 
Jayashri Namdar 
e. jayashri.namdar@canon-me.com  

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

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

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

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/4j9p1rH) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better. 

For more information: Canon-CNA.com 

Source: APO

For Dr Aminatu Makarfi Umar, a gynaecologist in Kaduna State, HIV prevention should be part of routine care for women who may benefit from it.

“Every pregnant woman at increased risk of HIV deserves to know her prevention options,” she said. “I will make sure this becomes part of routine care in my clinic.”

Her commitment reflects a wider effort by Nigeria to strengthen the capacity of health workers to provide quality, respectful and people-centred HIV prevention services.

An estimated 1.9 million people are living with HIV in Nigeria. Globally, around 41 million people were living with HIV in 2025, including 53% who were women and girls. Although progress has been made, preventing new HIV acquisitions remains essential to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Building skills to expand access
In May 2026, the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Control Programme convened 80 health workers from 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory for a six-day national training of trainers on pre-exposure prophylaxis, known as PrEP.

PrEP is medicine taken by people who do not have HIV to reduce their risk of acquiring HIV.

The training brought together doctors, nurses, pharmacists, programme officers, academics and community representatives.

Participants learned how to counsel clients, assess who can benefit from PrEP, explain the available choices and support people to continue using their preferred prevention method.

The 80 participants are expected to train other providers in their states and facilities, expanding the number of frontline health workers able to provide HIV prevention counselling and PrEP services.

Early follow-on training has reached 90 participants in Benue State, 118 in Taraba State and 26 in Ekiti State.

“Our pool of master trainers was not enough to meet demand,” said Taiwo Olakunle, PrEP Lead at the national programme. “This training expands that pool and equips participants to train others.”

Supporting Nigeria’s national priorities
The initiative supports the priorities of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Nigeria’s goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

The initiative contributes to Nigeria’s commitment to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 through strengthening prevention services and health workforce capacity. 

It also contributes to the implementation of the National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which was launched in June 2026 and emphasizes national ownership, health-system integration, sustainable financing, community engagement and measurable results. It complements Nigeria’s National HIV Prevention Plan 2026–2030, developed by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS as a roadmap for reversing the epidemic.

The course was informed by a 2025 national PrEP assessment conducted by the national programme and World Health Organization (WHO)

The assessment identified differences in training coverage and opportunities to incorporate PrEP into antenatal care, sexual and reproductive health services, sexually transmitted infection care and support for people affected by gender-based violence.

Offering people more choice
Nigeria is preparing its workforce to provide a wider range of HIV prevention choices. These include oral PrEP and longer-acting products, subject to national guidance, approval and implementation plans.

WHO recommended twice-yearly injectable lenacapavir as an additional PrEP choice in July 2025. WHO has also recommended long-acting injectable cabotegravir. Offering different options can help people choose a method that suits their needs and circumstances.

“Offering the full range of options is part of patient-centred care,” said Samiyu Dingari, a pharmacist from Adamawa State. “It is not just about dispensing what we are used to.”

Turning training into better services
The training was government-led, supported by World Health Organization (WHO) and funded by the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF).

Other participating partners included the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme, Heartland Alliance Ltd/GTE, Root to Rise and the Society for Family Health.

WHO contributed technical guidance, supported the development of national guidelines and helped revise the training curriculum. This support contributes to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s efforts to expand equitable access to HIV prevention services.

The next step is to translate training into measurable improvements. States and health facilities are encouraged to continue training frontline providers and incorporate PrEP into routine services.

Progress should be tracked through the national and programmatic indicators, including the: numbers of individuals tested HIV-negative and assessed eligible for PrEP the number initiated on PrEP, and the number who continue or discontinue PrEP over time.

These trainings are expected to strengthen the capacity of service providers and expand access to quality PrEP services, thereby contributing to the achievement of national HIV prevention target.  

As Dr Mya Ngon, WHO Team Lead for Disease Prevention and Control, said: “Training is the starting point. What matters is how this translates into consistent, respectful and evidence-based care.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

Source: APO

Accountability is strengthened when oversight goes beyond compliance to become a tool for institutional learning, professional growth and continuous improvement.

The Director, Directorate of Oversight, Compliance and Accountability (DOCA), Major General Mohamed Iddi, convened a Baraza at Defence Headquarters, bringing together officers, warrant officers and senior non-commissioned officers as the Directorate marked its inaugural anniversary.

The forum provided an opportunity to reflect on DOCA’s first year of establishing and integrating its oversight role within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). Personnel shared experiences, discussed procedural challenges and explored ways of strengthening oversight while promoting trust and constructive engagement across the institution.

Addressing the personnel, Major General Iddi emphasised that effective oversight should be objective, professional and focused on strengthening systems and improving organisational performance rather than being confrontational.

He underscored professional competence as essential to credible oversight, encouraging personnel to continuously develop their knowledge and skills, share experiences and remain abreast of emerging standards, risks and best practices.

Major General Iddi also called for greater cohesion within the Directorate, emphasising teamwork, information-sharing and collective responsibility. He urged personnel to maintain constructive relationships with the Services, noting that independence in oversight should reinforce impartiality without creating institutional isolation.

Reflecting on DOCA’s first year, he commended personnel for establishing processes, building institutional experience and producing credible reports, while challenging them to build on these gains and pursue greater impact.

Looking ahead, the Directorate will focus on improving the quality and consistency of inspections, strengthening assurance across the Services and consolidating systems that translate oversight findings into measurable institutional improvement.

The Baraza reinforced dialogue as an important pillar of accountability, enabling DOCA to strengthen professional relationships, promote continuous learning and contribute to a more effective, accountable and mission-ready KDF.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

Source: APO

The maritime security environment is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancement and the emergence of increasingly complex threats above, on and beneath the sea. Maintaining effective maritime domain awareness therefore requires continuous investment in modern surveillance, detection and response capabilities.

Against this evolving security landscape, the Kenya Navy hosted representatives from M/S SAAB, a Swedish defence and security company specialising in advanced surveillance and defence technologies, for a courtesy call on the Commander Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno, at the Kenya Navy Headquarters.

The engagement provided a platform to explore emerging technologies and naval capabilities that could strengthen maritime surveillance, coastal security and the detection of evolving threats within the maritime domain.

During the engagement, SAAB presented its portfolio of naval technologies, including advanced maritime surveillance and coastal radar systems designed to enhance situational awareness and support timely detection and tracking of activities at sea.

The presentation also highlighted 3D radar and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) capable of detecting, tracking and supporting responses to emerging aerial threats, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), within the maritime operating environment.

Underwater domain awareness also featured prominently, with SAAB showcasing advanced sensors and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) capable of supporting surveillance beneath the surface. Such technologies provide enhanced visibility across the underwater domain and strengthen the ability to detect and monitor activities that may affect maritime security.

The engagement highlighted the growing role of technology, innovation and strategic partnerships in building resilient maritime security capabilities. For the Kenya Navy, leveraging emerging technologies remains critical to enhancing maritime domain awareness, strengthening operational readiness and safeguarding Kenya’s territorial waters and wider maritime interests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

Source: APO

Sporting facilities play an important role in promoting physical fitness, resilience, team spirit and operational readiness among military personnel. This was reaffirmed as the Kenya Air Force (KAF) Commander, Major General Bernard Waliaula, commissioned the renovated Moi Air Base (MAB) Swimming Pool on 16 September 2026.

Established in 1942 during the Royal Air Force era, the facility has served generations of military personnel for more than eight decades. Its renovation restores functionality, enhances safety and provides a modern facility to support training, fitness and welfare.

Speaking during the commissioning, Major General Waliaula emphasised that infrastructure is a critical enabler of military capability, noting that modernisation must extend beyond platforms and equipment to facilities that support personnel development and readiness. He highlighted swimming as an important contributor to endurance, resilience and water confidence. “The facility will also support joint training by personnel from the Kenya Army and Kenya Navy, enhancing interoperability and cohesion,” he added.

The Commander appreciated the support of Defence Headquarters and commended the MAB leadership, Chief of Infrastructure and project team for their professionalism in delivering the renovation. He urged users to observe safety requirements, maintain cleanliness and uphold responsible stewardship to ensure the facility remains functional and delivers sustained value.

The Base Commander MAB, Brigadier Herbert Wafula, expressed appreciation for the continued support from KAF Headquarters, noting that the renovation demonstrates the Commander KAF’s commitment to improving the training, welfare and working environment of personnel.

The commissioning marks another step in strengthening the Kenya Air Force’s infrastructure and ensuring that personnel remain fit, resilient and ready to meet operational demands.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

Source: APO

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The President of the Pan-African Parliament, H.E. Dr. Fateh Boutbig, and his delegation were received today at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan by H.E. Mr. Jeyhun Bayramov, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss prospects for enhanced cooperation between the Pan-African Parliament and the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as broader avenues for strengthening relations between Azerbaijan and African countries.

The leaders commended the strong and growing relations between Azerbaijan and several African states, with particular recognition of the longstanding ties between Azerbaijan and Algeria. Discussions also highlighted the importance of continued engagement between African and Azerbaijani institutions in support of peace, development and international cooperation.

Minister Bayramov outlined Azerbaijan’s development efforts and its experience as a relatively young independent state that has faced conflict and significant destruction along its borders. He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to peace, stability and development, with the objective of ensuring the well-being and prosperity of its people.

On his part, H.E. Dr. Boutbig expressed appreciation for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to the delegation. He underscored that the engagement between the Pan-African Parliament and Azerbaijan forms part of parliamentary diplomacy, which complements traditional diplomatic efforts and contributes to comprehensive development, peace and stability.

The President emphasized that the major challenges facing the international community require sustained dialogue, cooperation and communication among states and parliamentary institutions. He further highlighted the importance of supporting Africa’s longstanding aspiration for permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council through the successful implementation of comprehensive reforms of the United Nations system.

H.E. Dr. Boutbig noted that Azerbaijan remains an important partner and occupies a distinctive position in international affairs. He expressed the Pan-African Parliament’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Azerbaijan and strengthening parliamentary engagement in pursuit of shared priorities, including peace, sustainable development, multilateralism and international cooperation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).