Category: Africa

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KoçSistem et KoçDigital signent deux nouveaux partenariats en Arabie saoudite lors de LEAP 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

KoçSistem (https://KocSistem.com) et KoçDigital, deux des principaux acteurs de l’écosystème technologique de Türkiye, ont renforcé leurs objectifs de croissance sur le marché saoudien grâce à deux nouveaux partenariats stratégiques. Les accords ont été annoncés lors de LEAP 2026, qui s’est tenu à Riyad du 31 août au 3 septembre. KoçSistem a signé un protocole d’accord avec GAPP, fournisseur saoudien de solutions TIC et d’affichage dynamique, afin d’accélérer le déploiement de sa plateforme de publication numérique Pixage dans le pays. De son côté, KoçDigital a conclu un partenariat stratégique avec Mannai Information Technology Saudi Arabia pour développer de nouvelles opportunités dans l’intelligence artificielle, l’IoT, le cloud et les solutions de transformation numérique sectorielles.

LEAP 2026 a réuni à Riyad plus de 200 000 participants, ainsi que des entreprises technologiques internationales, des investisseurs et des représentants du secteur public. Pour KoçSistem et KoçDigital, l’événement a servi de plateforme où les technologies et l’expertise développées en Türkiye ont rencontré de nouvelles applications sur le marché du Golfe, et où de nouveaux partenariats avec l’écosystème technologique local ont pris forme.

Une nouvelle opportunité de croissance pour Pixage en Arabie saoudite

Le protocole d’accord signé par KoçSistem avec GAPP vise à élargir le champ d’application de Pixage en Arabie saoudite et à positionner la plateforme dans divers projets de communication numérique. Le partenariat doit favoriser une utilisation plus large de Pixage au sein des institutions et des projets saoudiens, tout en renforçant le portefeuille technologique de KoçSistem dans la région. Il s’inscrit dans la stratégie de l’entreprise visant à étendre ses activités dans le Golfe et à accroître l’usage international des technologies qu’elle développe en Türkiye.

Développée par KoçSistem, Pixage est une solution cloud qui permet de gérer depuis une plateforme centrale unique des écrans numériques installés sur différents sites. Elle prend en charge la planification, la diffusion et la publication simultanée de contenus dans des lieux tels que les aéroports, les hôpitaux, les points de vente et les campus d’entreprise. Grâce à son intégration avec les systèmes IoT, les organisations peuvent piloter de vastes réseaux d’écrans depuis un point unique et adapter les contenus selon le lieu, l’horaire et le public cible.

KoçDigital et Mannai misent sur la transformation numérique

Le partenariat stratégique lancé par KoçDigital avec Mannai Information Technology Saudi Arabia réunit les compétences complémentaires des deux entreprises. L’expertise de KoçDigital en technologie, en architecture de solutions et en transformation industrielle rejoint la connaissance du marché local, les capacités d’intégration et l’expérience en services managés de Mannai. Les deux sociétés entendent développer de nouvelles opportunités commerciales dans l’intelligence artificielle, l’Internet des objets, les technologies cloud et les solutions sectorielles, et proposer des offres évolutives adaptées aux besoins de transformation numérique des organisations en Arabie saoudite.

Un modèle de partenariat local pour croître dans le Golfe

Avec ces deux accords, KoçSistem et KoçDigital portent sur le marché saoudien, au travers de partenariats régionaux, les technologies et l’expertise acquises en Türkiye, tout en tissant des liens plus étroits avec l’écosystème technologique local, conformément à leurs objectifs de croissance à long terme dans le Golfe.

« Porter les technologies que nous développons en Türkiye et l’expérience que nous avons accumulée vers différents marchés du monde est un élément important de notre stratégie de croissance », a déclaré Mehmet Ali Akarca, directeur général de KoçSistem et vice-président du conseil d’administration de KoçDigital. « L’Arabie saoudite occupe une place de choix dans cette stratégie, grâce à sa forte transformation économique, à ses investissements technologiques et à sa vision de la numérisation. Les deux partenariats que nous avons annoncés lors de LEAP 2026 sont des étapes concrètes vers notre objectif d’établir une présence technologique à long terme dans le Golfe, en unissant nos forces à celles de l’écosystème local. »

« Notre ambition ne se limite pas à exporter de la technologie. Il s’agit de bâtir une structure qui comprend les besoins de la région, développe des solutions avec des partenaires locaux et crée de la valeur dans la durée », a-t-il ajouté.

Ces deux accords prolongent la stratégie de croissance régionale que KoçSistem poursuit à travers des partenariats locaux et ses bureaux au Moyen-Orient. KoçSistem et KoçDigital font partie du Groupe Koç, le plus grand conglomérat industriel et de services de Türkiye.

Distribué par APO Group pour KoçSistem.

Contact presse :
Merve Güngör, directrice de marque
mervegungor@cpartner.com.tr

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Soudan : Organisation des Nations unies (ONU) parvient jusqu’aux affamés mais est à court de denrées pour les nourrir

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Dans un pays ravagé par plus de trois ans de guerre civile, près de 20 millions de personnes souffrent de faim aiguë. De retour du Soudan, le chef du Programme alimentaire mondial (PAM) a alerté lundi que le manque d’argent menace de réduire une aide qui, malgré les combats, parvient encore jusqu’à certaines des régions les plus isolées.

Pendant longtemps, le principal problème des humanitaires au Soudan était d’arriver jusqu’à ceux qui mourraient de faim. Les routes étaient coupées, les lignes de front infranchissables, les convois attaqués, les autorisations difficiles à obtenir. Ces obstacles demeurent, mais un autre est en passe de les supplanter. Le PAM réussit désormais à atteindre des millions de personnes qu’il n’a plus les moyens de nourrir suffisamment.

« Nous avons maintenant les capacités et nous avons la présence, mais nous n’utilisons pas pleinement cet espace en raison du manque de financement », a éploré lundi depuis Oman le chef par intérim de l’agence onusienne, Carl Skau, lors d’une visioconférence avec des journalistes au siège de l’ONU à New York,. Sans nouvelles contributions, le PAM risque de devoir « réduire encore davantage » ses opérations dans les prochaines semaines.

Le paradoxe est cruel dans ce qui constitue aujourd’hui la plus grande crise alimentaire au monde. Près de 20 millions de Soudanais sont confrontés à une faim aiguë, dont environ 5 millions à des niveaux urgents, selon le PAM. L’agence atteint entre 4 millions et 5 millions de personnes chaque mois, dont plus de 2 millions dans les zones les plus difficiles d’accès. Mais ses financements ont pratiquement fondu de moitié : 206 millions de dollars reçus jusqu’ici en 2026, contre 645 millions l’année précédente. Il lui manque près de 300 millions pour maintenir seulement ses opérations actuelles.

Carl Skau venait de passer huit jours au Soudan, dans la capitale Khartoum, à El-Obeid, une ville assiégée du centre, et à El-Fasher et Tawila, dans l’Est. Son trajet illustre à lui seul la fragmentation du pays. Un parcours qui demandait six heures en voiture avant la guerre lui a pris trois jours, trois vols et une trentaine d’heures de route à travers le massif du Djebel Marra, faute de pouvoir franchir les lignes de front.

Une ville fantôme

A El-Fasher, capitale du Darfour du Nord tombée aux mains des paramilitaires des Forces de soutien rapide (FSR) en octobre 2025 après 18 mois de siège, le constat est plus radical encore. « C’était une expérience très éprouvante », a rapporté M. Skau. 

Dans cette ville qui comptait autrefois près d’un million d’habitants, il dit n’avoir pratiquement aperçu aucune activité économique, aucun marché digne de ce nom. Des familles sont revenues, non parce que la ville est redevenue habitable, mais parce qu’elles n’avaient rien là où elles avaient fui. Certaines ont trouvé refuge dans des maisons abandonnées après avoir découvert la leur incendiée.

La prise d’El-Fasher avait été accompagnée de massacres de masse. Des enquêteurs de l’ONU ont depuis recueilli des témoignages faisant état de civils abattus dans les rues et à leur domicile par les FSR du général Mohammed Hamdan Daglo, dit « Hemetti ».  Depuis avril 2023, ces paramilitaires sont en guerre contre l’armée du général Abdel Fattah Al-Bourhane. Les deux camps sont par ailleurs accusés de crimes de guerre depuis le début du conflit.

A une soixantaine de kilomètres de là, Tawila donne à voir l’autre versant du désastre : non plus une ville vidée, mais une ville improvisée par l’exode. Près d’un million de déplacés s’y entassent désormais, contre environ 700 000 lors de la précédente visite de Carl Skau, en avril. Le PAM parvient à distribuer de la nourriture à quelque 950 000 personnes chaque mois. Mais seulement une demi-ration, de quoi tenir deux semaines.

Les deux autres semaines sont laissées à l’ingéniosité de familles qui ont souvent déjà tout perdu. Beaucoup sont dirigées par des femmes dont les maris ou les fils ont disparu ou ont été tués. « Elles ont vraiment du mal à faire durer » les rations, a constaté M. Skau. A cela s’ajoutent le manque d’abris, de soins, d’écoles et même d’espace pour les enfants. « C’est désormais une immense ville d’un million d’habitants sans les services de base », a-t-il résumé.

Une nouvelle menace se profile : la sécheresse. En pleine saison des pluies, le Darfour n’aurait pas connu une telle aridité depuis 1984, selon les témoignages recueillis par le responsable du PAM. Les récoltes et le bétail pourraient en pâtir. Une femme rencontrée sur place lui a résumé l’équation. Les familles dépendent à la fois de l’agriculture et des distributions alimentaires ; si la première succombe à la sécheresse et les secondes aux coupes budgétaires, que leur restera-t-il ?

La guerre se déplace

Pendant ce temps, l’épicentre des combats glisse vers le Kordofan et le Nil Bleu. A El-Obeid, carrefour stratégique du Kordofan du Nord, la population a explosé sous l’afflux des déplacés. M. Skau y a rencontré des femmes arrivées le matin même après cinq jours de marche, leurs villages détruits. Mais là encore, le PAM doit choisir entre aider les nouveaux arrivants et réduire, voire interrompre, l’assistance à ceux qui avaient fui trois ans plus tôt et qui, eux non plus, n’ont souvent ni travail ni foyer où retourner.

La guerre civile a déplacé environ 13 millions de personnes et fait au moins des dizaines de milliers de morts. Les infrastructures sanitaires elles-mêmes continuent de disparaître : 36 structures de santé supplémentaires doivent fermer cette année faute de financements internationaux, privant plus de 470 000 personnes d’accès aux soins.

Au Soudan, les humanitaires se retrouvent ainsi devant une situation presque absurde. Après avoir bataillé pour ouvrir des routes vers certaines des populations les plus isolées de la planète, ils risquent de devoir reculer faute d’argent. « Nous sommes en train d’échouer à protéger les civils », a conclu le chef du PAM. A quelques jours de la semaine de haut niveau de l’Assemblée générale de l’ONU, il réclame un investissement politique pour mettre fin à la guerre. Mais en attendant, dit-il, les Soudanais ont au moins droit à « l’aide humanitaire de base ».

Distribué par APO Group pour UN News.

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Ekurhuleni murders are a priority – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

Ekurhuleni murders are a priority – President Ramaphosa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed that the investigations into the murders of six women in Ekurhuleni be prioritised by police.

Over the weekend, police revealed the discovery of the bodies of four women in the same area over a period of approximately two months.

Two more bodies were subsequently discovered in different areas of Ekurhuleni on Monday (14 September 2026) and this morning (Tuesday, 15 September 2026).

“Our law enforcement agencies are working urgently to establish the facts, keep communities safe, and bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice.

“I have spoken to the Minister of Police and the Acting National Police Commissioner, who have briefed me on the investigation. I have directed that these cases be prioritised and that no stone be left unturned in bringing those responsible to justice.

“Our law enforcement agencies are undertaking this work in partnership with citizens, on whom we depend for any information that may help end these attacks on women,” President Ramaphosa said in a statement on Tuesday.

One of the six victims is 38-year-old Elizabeth “Tsontso” Moselakgomo, whose disappearance over the weekend sparked widespread reporting on the incidents.

Her body was positively identified by her family on Monday.

“I speak for all of us as I extend my deepest condolences to all families and communities affected by the killing of women recently found in and around Kempton Park.

“These incidents are causing fear and uncertainty in our communities, and especially among women,” he said.

The President assured that government shares the “concerns of all South Africans and we mourn the lives so cruelly taken away”.

“As a nation, we must stand up for the rights, safety and dignity of women and girls. As we do so, our hearts go out to all the families affected by the terrible events in the Kempton Park area.

“If anyone has information about these incidents or if you are missing a relative or friend, please contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249,” President Ramaphosa said.

Meanwhile, Acting Police Minister, Firoz Cachalia, has expressed deep concern and has extended his condolences, following the discovery of the bodies.

READ | Concern and condolences for Ekurhuleni murders

“The discovery of multiple women murdered in the Kempton Park area is deeply disturbing. While the investigation must establish whether these cases are linked, the possibility that a perpetrator or perpetrators may be targeting women demands our urgent and determined attention, the Minister said earlier today.

READ | Those responsible for Ekurhuleni murders will be caught – SAPS

The SAPS vowed to apprehend those responsible for the murders. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Statement by President Ramaphosa on killings of women in the East Rand

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has said that no stone will be left unturned to solve the recent killings of women in and around Kempton Park in Gauteng.

He said: “I speak for all of us as I extend my deepest condolences to all families and communities affected by the killing of women recently found in and around Kempton Park.

“These incidents are causing fear and uncertainty in our communities, and especially among women.

“As Government, we share the concerns of all South Africans, and we mourn the lives so cruelly taken away.

“Our law enforcement agencies are working urgently to establish the facts, keep communities safe, and bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice.

“I have spoken to the Minister of Police and the Acting National Police Commissioner, who have briefed me on the investigation. I have directed that these cases be prioritised and that no stone be left unturned in bringing those responsible to justice.

“Our law enforcement agencies are undertaking this work in partnership with citizens, on whom we depend for any information that may help end these attacks on women.
 
“As a nation, we must stand up for the rights, safety and dignity of women and girls.

“As we do so, our hearts go out to all the families affected by the terrible events in the Kempton Park area.

“If anyone has information about these incidents or if you are missing a relative or friend, please contact Warrant Officer Elvis Manyike on 082 465 7249.”

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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Message by Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile on his progressive recovery

Source: President of South Africa –

Fellow South Africans,

As many of you know, I recently underwent a minor medical procedure. I am pleased to share that my recovery is progressing well, and I am regaining strength each day.

On the advice of my doctors, I will continue resting until advised otherwise while work and delegated responsibilities continue to be underway in the capable team in my office with other stakeholders in Government, business and other sectors.

I wish to thank my family, the medical team who continue to care for me, my team in the office, my colleagues in Government, and in the ANC, and most importantly, President Cyril Ramaphosa and all South Africans who have sent messages of support. Your prayers and encouragement have been a source of strength.

Let us continue working together for the progress of our country. I assure you that I remain dedicated to the responsibilities entrusted to me, and I look forward to returning to my duties in full, serving our nation with renewed energy and commitment.

Thank you, and may God bless South Africa.

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Concern and condolences for Ekurhuleni murders

Source: Government of South Africa

Concern and condolences for Ekurhuleni murders

Acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, has expressed deep concern and has extended his condolences, following the discovery of six bodies of women in the Kempton Park area.

“Minister Cachalia extends his sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased. Minister Cachalia, together with the Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service [SAPS], Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, will meet with the investigating team this afternoon to receive a detailed briefing on the progress of the investigation, the evidence gathered thus far, and the measures being taken to identify and apprehend those responsible,” the Ministry of Police said on Tuesday.

This came as news broke that the sixth body of a woman was found on Tuesday morning (15 September 2026).

“The discovery of multiple women murdered in the Kempton Park area is deeply disturbing. While the investigation must establish whether these cases are linked, the possibility that a perpetrator or perpetrators may be targeting women demands our urgent and determined attention. 

“A multidisciplinary investigation has been established to examine possible links between the cases, identify those responsible and bring them to justice,” the Minister said in a statement on Tuesday.

He added that the meeting with the investigating team will provide an opportunity to assess the progress of the investigation and ensure that all necessary resources and operational support are being brought to bear.

“The safety of women is a priority. The SAPS will continue working with communities and other stakeholders to identify risks, strengthen policing responses and ensure that credible information is acted upon.

“We appeal to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to come forward through the appropriate police channels. We also urge the public not to circulate unverified information or make accusations without evidence. Our thoughts remain with the families of the deceased during this deeply painful time,” said Minister Cachalia.

The Acting Minister returned to South Africa yesterday, following a working visit to China, and has prioritised receiving an update on the ongoing investigation.

Earlier, the SAPS vowed to apprehend those responsible for the murders of women in Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, as the body of a sixth woman was discovered in the area.

This came after police revealed the discovery of the bodies of four women in the same area over a period of approximately two months.

Two more bodies were subsequently discovered in different areas of Ekurhuleni on Monday (14 September 2026) and this morning (Tuesday, 15 September 2026). 

READ | Those responsible for Ekurhuleni murders will be caught – SAPS

In a media briefing on Monday evening, Deputy National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, warned the perpetrator or perpetrators that police are on their trail and that their “freedom is temporary”. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Day in Cameroon

Source: APO

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) (www.IsDB.org) Group successfully concluded the IsDB Group Day in Cameroon, bringing together senior government officials, private sector leaders, financial institutions, chambers of commerce, development partners, and international stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, promote investment, and enhance private sector-led growth in Cameroon.

The high-level event underscored Cameroon’s strategic importance as one of Africa’s promising economies and highlighted the critical role of private sector engagement in addressing key development challenges, including infrastructure gaps, youth and women unemployment, limited access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the transition toward a more diversified and sustainable economy.

The IsDB Group Day in Cameroon served as a strategic platform to present the Group’s comprehensive range of services and solutions in investment, trade finance, insurance, Islamic finance, and capacity building, while facilitating dialogue among investors, entrepreneurs, and development partners, fostering meaningful engagement and the exploration of practical business and investment opportunities.

This event marks an important milestone in the longstanding and valuable partnership between the Republic of Cameroon and the Islamic Development Bank Group. Since Cameroon joined the Bank in 1977, a total amount of US$ 4.2 billion has been approved by the Bank Group for the benefit of the people in Cameroon.  Looking ahead, the IsDB Group is preparing to deliver more holistic and programmatic support to Cameroon through the Country Engagement Framework (CEF) for Cameroon 2027-2029, that will be developed at the crossroads between Cameroon’s National Development Strategy 2020-2030 (SND30) and IsDB Group newly launched 10-year Strategic Framework.

A panel discussion examined Cameroon’s development priorities and the role of IsDB Group in exploring avenues for cooperation and forging strategic partnerships to advance Cameroon’s path towards sustainable and inclusive development.

The discussions were closely aligned with Cameroon’s development vision of building a diversified, inclusive, and resilient economy driven by private sector-led growth. Key priorities included strengthening public-private partnerships, advancing renewable energy and green infrastructure, and investing in human capital to unlock opportunities for youth and women. Another panel explored how the private sector can contribute to achieving the goals of NDS30, while a dedicated session examined line of finance mechanisms from investment and trade perspectives, highlighting their role in improving SME access to finance and enhancing trade integration.

The signing ceremony witnessed the exchange of several financing agreements between IsDB and the Government of Cameroon as well as letters of intent between ICD and financial partners in Cameroon aimed at strengthening cooperation between the IsDB Group and Cameroon’s public and private sectors. The total value of the agreements reached EUR 137 million.

A series of bilateral (B2B and B2G) meetings were held among representatives of the IsDB Group, business leaders, investors, and financial institutions to explore opportunities for cooperation and partnerships. Success stories implemented in Cameroon in partnership with local entrepreneurs as well as local and international institutions were also presented. The IsDB Group Day in Cameroon attracted a strong and diverse turnout, bringing together more than 500 participants representing government institutions, private sector organizations, financial institutions, chambers of commerce, development partners, and other key stakeholders.

The event also highlighted the activities, services, and initiatives of IsDB Group institutions, including the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD), the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBi), the Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum (THIQAH), and the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF).

The day concluded with a reaffirmation of the IsDB Group’s commitment to continued cooperation with the government of Cameroon and the country’s private sector to further build strategic partnerships, expand investment and trade opportunities, and enhance the business environment, contributing to sustainable development in Cameroon.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB Group).

Contact:
ICIEC
Email: ICIEC-Communication@isdb.org

ITFC
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org 

THIQAH
Email: THIQAH@isdb.org

Social media: 
ICD 
Twitter: @ICD_PS
LinkedIn: ICDPS
Facebook: icdps
Instagram: @icdps
YouTube: ICDPSTV

ICIEC
Facebook
LinkedIn
YouTube
Instagram

ITFC
Twitter: @ITFCCORP
Facebook: @ITFCCORP
LinkedIn: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)

IsDBI
X (Twitter): https://apo-opa.co/4h8bKx4
Facebook:  https://apo-opa.co/46qfKnH
LinkedIn:  https://apo-opa.co/3T1UtO6

THIQAH
Twitter: @IDBGTHIQAH
Facebook: @IDBGTHIQAH
LinkedIn: IsDB Group Business Forum – THIQAH

About Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group:
Rated AAA by the major rating agencies of the world, the Islamic Development Bank is the pioneering multilateral development bank (MDB) of the Global South that has been working for over 50 years to improve the lives of the people and communities it serves by delivering impact at scale. The Bank brings together 57 Member Countries across four continents, touching the lives of nearly 1 of 4 people worldwide. It is committed to addressing development challenges and promoting collaboration to help achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by equipping people to drive their own green economic and sustainable social progress, putting planet-friendly infrastructure in place and enabling them to fulfil their potential. Headquartered in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, IsDB has 10 regional hubs and a center of excellence.  Over the years, the Bank has evolved from a single entity into a group comprising: the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBi); the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC); the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD); and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

About the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC):
Established in 1994, ICIEC seeks to strengthen economic relations and stimulate trade and investment among OIC member countries through the provision of risk mitigation instruments and financial solutions. It remains the world’s only multilateral insurer operating in compliance with Islamic Sharia.

ICIEC currently serves 50 countries and has maintained its “Aa3” insurance credit rating from Moody’s for 17 consecutive years – the among credit and political risk insurers. It also received a first-time long-term credit rating of AA- from Standard & Poor’s with a stable outlook. The Corporation’s resilience is underpinned by sound underwriting, reinsurance and risk management practices. To date, ICIEC has cumulatively insured over 121 billion USD in trade and investment across key sectors, including energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture.

For more information, visit: http://ICIEC.IsDB.org

About the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD):
A member of the Islamic Development Bank Group, ICD is a multilateral financial institution with an authorized capital is 4 billion USD, of which 2 billion USD is available for subscription. Its shareholders comprise the Islamic Development Bank, 56 member countries, and five public financial institutions.

Since its inception in 1999, the Corporation has played a pivotal role in fostering inclusive and sustainable growth through Shariah-compliant financing, cross-border investments, and vital infrastructure development. ICD has contributed significantly to enhancing the economic landscape of its member countries.

Website: https://ICD-ps.org/

About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided US$100 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries’ needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.

About the IsDB Institute (IsDBI):
The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) is the knowledge beacon of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Guided by the principles of Islamic economics and finance, the IsDB Institute leads the development of innovative knowledge-based solutions to support the sustainable economic advancement of IsDB Member Countries and various Muslim communities worldwide. The IsDB Institute enables economic development through pioneering research, human capital development, knowledge creation, dissemination, and management. The Institute leads initiatives to enable Islamic finance ecosystems, ultimately helping Member Countries achieve their development objectives. More information about the IsDB Institute is available on https://IsDBInstitute.org/

About the Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum (THIQAH):
THIQAH serves as the private sector interface of the IsDB Group, facilitating engagement and collaboration between the Group entities and businesses in member countries. Its core aim is to build an inclusive, strategic platform for dialogue, cooperation and partnerships focused on high potentials investment opportunities.

By leveraging IsDB Group resources, THIQAH offers support services and confidence to investors while promoting cross-border investment flows within member countries.

Website (www.IDBGbf.org)

About the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF):
The Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF) is a leading international development initiative supported by an unprecedented global coalition of six founding partners: the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), the Gates Foundation (GF), the IsDB Concessional Fund (ICF), the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).

Built on solidarity, partnership, and country ownership, LLF supports government-led development priorities across 33 IsDB member countries. Our strength lies in this unity of purpose. Through this collective momentum, LLF deploys an innovative blended finance model that combines concessional financing from IsDB with grant resources from its partners, enabling countries to access affordable, long-term, and sustainable funding for transformative development programs.

The Fund invests in the essential building blocks of prosperity—primary healthcare, productive agriculture, and social infrastructure—while systematically integrating cross-cutting priorities such as climate resilience, gender equality, and women’s empowerment across its portfolio. Through these interventions, LLF contributes to the achievement of 10 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aligning national priorities with the global development agenda.

Beyond financing, LLF supports the entire project lifecycle—from pipeline development and technical design to implementation support and results monitoring—ensuring sustainable outcomes and expanding opportunities for individuals and communities to build lives of dignity, resilience, and livelihood.

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APO Group Launches New Brand as Africa’s Only Strategic Communications Consultancy with Owned Distribution

Source: APO

APO Group (https://APO-opa.com), the communications consultancy built for performance across Africa, today launches its new brand and website centred on the proposition Communication, Built for Performance.

Traditionally, organisations communicating across Africa have managed their PR and communications market by market, often working with multiple agencies and suppliers. This adds cost and makes consistent messaging and measurement across markets almost impossible. APO Group is the only pan-African communications consultancy that combines strategic advisory with ownership of the network that distributes it, so counsel, execution, and visibility can be managed and measured as one system.

For clients, this means having a single communications partner across markets, rather than multiple partners to coordinate. It also means APO Group can be held to the results delivered, not simply the activity undertaken.

Bas Wijne, CEO of APO Group, says, “A company operating across 10 African markets has historically had to manage 10 separate agency relationships. That fragmentation persisted because no single consultancy had the reach to take responsibility across the continent. APO Group can. We operate across all 54 African markets, and because we own the distribution, our role does not end with the recommendation. We can take a communications strategy through to publication and see how it performs in the markets that matter.”

APO Group was built for a communications environment that is changing rapidly, shaped by AI, rising geopolitical and reputational risks, greater scrutiny of communications investment, and the need to respond faster. Across Africa, these demands are amplified by rapid growth and evolving regulatory and business environments. This requires communications that are strategically focused, locally relevant, and able to demonstrate impact across markets.   

Communication, Built for Performance reflects how APO Group meets these demands by combining strategic communications expertise with long-standing experience across Africa’s communications and media landscape.

Libby Allen, Vice President: Brand & Creative at APO Group, adds, “APO Group has been part of Africa’s media landscape since 2007, not a supplier looking in from outside. The consultancy was built on that foundation. It’s what gives us the local understanding to advise on reputation in markets that are too often assumed rather than understood.”

Built for performance across Africa

Through Africa Newsroom (https://apo-opa.co/4rbe6zV), APO Group’s owned newswire, the company guarantees placement on more than 250 Africa-focused news websites, and reaches more than 450,000 journalists, analysts, investors, and policymakers. Coverage placed through the network sits on indexed news platforms, staying retrievable long after a campaign ends. It is the source material search engines and AI systems increasingly draw on when answering questions about a company or a market. Visibility bought once keeps working.

PR execution is local. APO Group has staff on the ground in 13 African markets and partners across all 54, so a strategy is delivered to the same standard in Lagos as in Casablanca, without a client coordinating separate agencies market by market.

Founded in 2007, APO Group works with more than 300 clients across finance, technology, healthcare, logistics, and the public sector, including multinational companies, African institutions, governments, NGOs, and development organisations.

The new website is live at https://APO-opa.com/ with APO Group’s refreshed brand identity now rolling out across its social media channels and Africa Newsroom (https://apo-opa.co/4rbe6zV). Follow APO Group on LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/3UQ5p1P) to see the new brand.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media Contact:
marie@apo-opa.com 

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007 by Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, APO Group is the communications consultancy built for performance – combining strategic advisory, on-the-ground execution, and guaranteed visibility across all 54 African markets. Its owned newswire, Africa Newsroom, secures placement on 250+ Africa-focused news sites, connecting organisations directly with 450,000+ journalists, analysts, investors, and policymakers worldwide.

Recognised internationally for communications excellence, including SABRE, Davos Communications, and World Business Outlook distinctions, APO Group partners with global and African organisations for whom the continent is a strategic priority. Clients include the African Development Bank Group, Africa CDC, Afreximbank, NFL, Nestlé, Emirates, Canon, Western Union and GITEX Global.

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Seychelles and Namibia Look to Turn Historical Ties into Stronger Cooperation

Source: APO

Building on longstanding ties between the two countries, President Dr Patrick Herminie welcomed efforts to deepen Seychelles–Namibia relations through greater practical cooperation following the accreditation of H.E. Ms Nangula F. Ithete as Namibia’s High Commissioner to Seychelles.

Ms Ithete presented her credentials to President Dr Patrick Herminie at State House, where the two discussed the historical ties between Seychelles and Namibia and opportunities to expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

President Herminie welcomed the High Commissioner and said he is encouraged by her enthusiasm and commitment to working closely with Seychelles during her tenure.

The President reflected on the strong historical ties between the two countries, noting that the friendship between Seychelles and Namibia predates the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1991. Seychelles maintained close ties with Namibia’s founding President, the late Dr Sam Nujoma, during the country’s struggle for independence.

Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture and the Blue Economy, including sustainable ocean governance, fisheries management and maritime security. Opportunities for greater collaboration in maritime surveillance, fisheries enforcement and capacity-building were also explored.

Health was another area identified for closer cooperation, particularly through the exchange of professionals, training and capacity-building. The two sides also discussed renewable energy, including opportunities for Seychelles to benefit from Namibia’s experience and expertise in emerging areas such as green hydrogen.

Sport also featured in the discussions, with possibilities for exchanges in coaching, training and youth development, including opportunities to draw on Namibia’s experience in rugby and other sporting disciplines.

The President further highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation through regional and international organisations, particularly the African Union and the Southern African Development Community.

Following her meeting with President Herminie, the High Commissioner-designate also met with Vice-President Sebastien Pillay, with discussions focusing on education, tourism, parliamentary diplomacy and the exchange of expertise between the two countries.

Vice-President Pillay also expressed interest in Namibia’s extractive industry and sought insight into the country’s mining sector, including foreign ownership and participation. The discussions provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives on Namibia’s experience in developing and managing the sector.

Tourism was identified as another area with potential for closer cooperation, particularly through the exchange of expertise and experience between the two countries. Education also featured as an avenue for further collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

Parliamentary diplomacy formed part of the discussions, with both sides recognising the potential for closer engagement between the legislative institutions of Seychelles and Namibia. Ms Ithete’s extensive parliamentary experience was also highlighted during the exchange.

The meetings reaffirmed the close historical relationship between Seychelles and Namibia while placing greater emphasis on translating those ties into practical cooperation across sectors that can deliver mutual benefits for both countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Shelter indaba places GBVF response under spotlight

Source: Government of South Africa

Shelter indaba places GBVF response under spotlight

The need to strengthen and coordinate responses to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) will take centre stage when Social Development Minister Dina Pule leads the sixth National Shelter Indaba in Benoni, Johannesburg.

The three-day indaba, taking place from 15 – 17 September 2026, is held in partnership with the National Shelter Movement South Africa (NSMSA), under the theme: “The Social Integration of GBVF Interventions”.

The annual engagement seeks to strengthen the country’s response to the GBVF crisis through stronger government leadership and coordination, prevention and risk reduction, public responsibility and broader mobilisation.

GBVF remains a critical human rights and societal challenge, affecting individuals, families and communities across all sectors of society. Women and children, persons with disabilities and members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) community remain particularly vulnerable to violence and abuse, while men are also affected.

The National Shelter Indaba will bring together government officials, practitioners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to examine challenges affecting the delivery of services to survivors and identify practical measures to improve support, care and protection.

The Department of Social Development leads Pillar 4 of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF (NSP-GBVF), which focuses on Response, Care, Support and Healing. The pillar is implemented in collaboration with other government departments, civil society organisations, partners and other stakeholders.

The department said the Indaba also provides a platform for stakeholders to identify and address challenges affecting service delivery, share best practices and develop practical strategies to strengthen support and services for women and children affected by GBVF.

“Since its inception in 2021, the National Shelter Indaba has provided a professional platform for government officials, practitioners, role players and other stakeholders who are committed to ending GBVF to share their knowledge, experiences and lessons learned.

“It has also created space for participants to brainstorm and develop strategies to address gaps and challenges affecting services to survivors of gender-based violence and their children,” the department said in a statement.

The NSMSA is a registered non-profit organisation that provides support to shelters for women and their children affected by gender-based violence across all nine provinces. The shelters provide essential services, including safety, counselling, support and empowerment to survivors of GBVF.

The organisation’s vision is to “provide a united voice on issues of sheltering women and children affected by gender-based violence.”

The department has called on all South Africans to play an active role in confronting GBVF in homes, workplaces, communities and places of worship.

This includes challenging attitudes, behaviours and practices that perpetuate gender inequality, violence and abuse against vulnerable groups.

Members of the public can report incidents of gender-based violence to the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428.

The centre can also be reached by sending a “PLEASE CALL ME” to 1207867#, sending an SMS with the word “HELP” to 31531, or via Skype at Helpme GBV, where professional social workers are available to provide assistance. – SAnews.gov.za

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