Category: Africa

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Speech by the Deputy Minister in The Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli on the occasion of the Cyber Lab handover at Paballelo Senior Secondary School

Source: President of South Africa –

Honourable Executive Mayor, Cllr Kazi
Programme Director, Mrs Mazaleni
Principal of Paballelo High School, Gudula
Representatives from the School Governing Body
Distinguished representatives from HUAWEI, especially Deputy CEO Mr Charles Cheng
Representatives from the School District Office
Educators and staff members
Parents and guardians
Members of the Representative Council of Learners
Learners of Paballelo Senior Secondary School
Ladies and gentlemen
Good afternoon,

It is a true honour and deeply personal privilege for me to stand before you today at Paballelo High School.

This school holds a very special place in my heart because this is the very school from which I matriculated. Returning here today, as Deputy Minister in the Presidency, is both humbling and emotional. I am very glad to be back at the institution that helped shape my journey and laid the foundation for my future.

Coming back to these grounds reminds me of the dreams we carried as young learners, the challenges we faced, and the educators who believed in us and encouraged us to aim higher.

And today is no ordinary day, Programme Director. Today marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly and formally laid the foundation for the democratic South Africa we know today.

This milestone invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going. It reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality, and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important. As a country, we must ensure that our young people understand the full story of our nation, our struggles, our triumphs, and the lessons of our past. History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans.
 
Today’s handover ceremony is therefore more than just an official event. It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community.
I would like to extend sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development. Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners.

Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development.

To the learners of Paballelo High School, I want to say this:
Your circumstances do not define your destiny. I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. 
Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential.

South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed.

I would also like to encourage all learners here today who are 16 years and older to register to vote. Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard.

To the matric class of 2026, I want to encourage you to make full use of the opportunities that this new lab and its resources will provide. Use this facility to research career opportunities, apply to universities and colleges on time, and prepare yourselves for the future economy. Technology is a gateway to opportunity, and you must use it to unlock your full potential.

Allow me also to extend a sincere word of gratitude to HUAWEI Deputy CEO, Mr Charles Cheng, for your support and commitment to education development in our country. Your contribution today will make a meaningful difference in the lives of many learners at Paballelo High School. We value this partnership and your investment in the future of our young people.
 
As government, we remain committed to improving educational outcomes and ensuring that learners, particularly in underserved communities, have access to opportunities and resources that prepare them for the future.

I once again thank everyone who made today possible and congratulate Paballelo Senior Secondary School on this important occasion.

I am proud to be home.

I thank you.

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Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

As South Africa marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli said the milestone “invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going”.

Speaking during the handing over of Cyber Lab at Paballelo Senior Secondary School, Mhlauli told the learners that the day reminded the country of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

“It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important,” she said.

Mhlauli said South Africa must ensure that young people understand the full story of the nation, its struggles, its triumphs and the lessons of the past.

“History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Department of Basic Education has published the draft new History Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements for Grades 4 to 12 for public comment.

The current publication forms part of a curriculum review process that has been under way for several years. It provides for the study of ancient and modern pasts, the use of historical and archaeological sources and the development of historical thinking, historical consciousness and historical culture.

Mhlauli told the learners that the handover ceremony was more than just an official event. “It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community,” she said.

She extend her sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development.

“Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners. 

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also told the learners that their circumstances do not define their destiny.

“I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential. South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

“To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed,” she said.

Mhlauli said also encouraged all the learners who are 16 years and older to register to vote.

“Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin

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Steenhuisen welcomes new PPECB board ahead of centenary milestone

Source: Government of South Africa

Steenhuisen welcomes new PPECB board ahead of centenary milestone

As the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in June, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has congratulated and welcomed the organisation’s newly appointed board members.

Established in June 1926, the PPECB is entering its second century of service as a linchpin of South Africa’s export and trade infrastructure, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Agriculture continues to play a central role in the country’s economy, serving as an engine for job creation and source of foreign exchange.

As the world’s trade landscape shifts, the role of the PPECB in providing independent, internationally recognised quality certification and cold chain management has never been more crucial.

The newly constituted board brings together a wealth of expertise and knowledge across the agricultural, agro-processing, and marine value chains. Their collective experience is a strategic asset as the country pursues new market access and seeks to expand existing international markets.

“I want to congratulate our new board members on taking up this mantle. They are stepping into leadership roles at an institution that has spent a century building trust in the South African export certificate,” Steenhuisen said.

With global trade becoming increasingly complex, the Minister emphasised that the calibre of the new board is a direct response to the need for high-level technical and strategic expertise.

The PPECB Board of Directors comprises the following members:
• Anton Kruger (Ministerial Representative): Former Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum CEO, with 14 years of executive experience;
• Jill Atwood-Palm (Processed Products): SA Fruit and Vegetable Canners Export Council General Manager, with 25 years’ experience in agro-processing;
• Albert Coetzee (Citrus Industry): Agricultural economist focusing on international sustainability regulations;
• Jacques du Preez (Pome and Stone Fruit): Expert in market access and negotiating international trade protocols;
• Lindie Stroebel (Subtropical Fruit): Senior executive with a focus on global supply footprints;
• Michael Vorster (Table Grape Industry): Experienced producer and chairperson within the table grape sector;
• Werner van Rooyen (Pome and Stone Fruit): Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum and logistics specialist;
• Jolanda Andrag (Exporters’ Representative): COO of AgriSA, bringing extensive experience in public policy and development finance;
• Bonga Mavume (Marine Industry): Founder of Nalitha Fishing Group with 20 years’ experience in food manufacturing; and
• Pheladi Tlomatsane (Citrus Industry): Compliance and governance specialist with over 15 years’ experience in the sector.

“The Ministry is confident that this board will provide the needed steady and innovative vision to bolster South Africa’s reputation as a world-class exporter of premium perishable goods,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK

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O Secretário-Geral da Organização Africana de Produtores de Petróleo (APPO), Ghezali, vai discursar na African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, à medida que o Banco Africano de Energia se aproxima do seu lançamento

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Farid Ghezali, Secretário-Geral da Organização Africana de Produtores de Petróleo (APPO), subirá ao palco da African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, que decorrerá de 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo. Ghezali lidera o organismo pan-africano que, juntamente com o Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afrexibank), está a liderar o Banco Africano de Energia (AEB) — uma instituição marcante que se espera que entre em funcionamento em junho de 2026, em Abuja, na Nigéria. A sua confirmação na AEW coloca a arquitetura financeira em evolução de África no centro da agenda do evento.

Fundada em Lagos em 1987, a APPO cresceu de oito Estados-membros fundadores para 18, representando toda a amplitude das nações produtoras de petróleo de África, desde a Argélia e a Nigéria, a norte e a oeste, até à Namíbia e à África do Sul, a sul. Com sede em Brazzaville, no Congo, a organização passou por uma grande reforma em 2019, alargando o seu mandato para além da coordenação do mercado, de modo a facilitar ativamente o investimento e o financiamento em todo o continente. O AEB é o produto mais significativo desse mandato alargado até à data.

O banco foi concebido para preencher o vazio de financiamento criado pela retirada das instituições ocidentais dos projetos de petróleo e gás africanos. Com mais de 150 projetos essenciais paralisados em todo o continente devido a défices de capital, o mandato do AEB abrange toda a cadeia de valor, desde a exploração a montante e as infraestruturas a meio do processo até à distribuição a jusante. Fundado com uma capitalização inicial de 5 mil milhões de dólares, o banco tem como meta 10 mil milhões de dólares em investimentos na Fase 1, com o objetivo a longo prazo de angariar 15 mil milhões de dólares para projetos de petróleo e gás até 2030. A Nigéria entregou a sede do banco em Abuja à APPO e ao Afrexibank em fevereiro de 2026, sinalizando um passo crucial para o seu início operacional.

Para além do financiamento direto de projetos, Ghezali salientou o potencial do AEB para transformar a forma como as Empresas Petrolíferas Nacionais Africanas (NOC) acedem ao capital. As 18 NOC da APPO têm historicamente operado sem uma plataforma financeira comum, limitando a sua capacidade coletiva de atrair investimento em grande escala. Espera-se que o banco apoie a cotação das NOC, ligando os produtores soberanos aos mercados de capitais e aos fundos soberanos em grande escala, ao mesmo tempo que visa unificar os preços intra-africanos do petróleo e do gás para proporcionar até 30% de poupança nas importações de energia em todos os Estados-Membros.

«O AEB representa mais do que uma nova instituição financeira. É uma declaração de que África pretende controlar os termos do seu próprio desenvolvimento energético», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «A APPO passou anos a construir as bases institucionais e o alinhamento dos Estados-Membros para tornar isto credível.»

A AEW 2026 — o maior encontro sobre energia de África — reunirá decisores políticos, promotores de projetos, financiadores e operadores para avaliar como a chegada do AEB irá remodelar o panorama do financiamento energético do continente. A intervenção de Ghezali deverá ser uma das sessões mais importantes do evento, numa altura em que o setor do petróleo e do gás africano atravessa uma mudança decisiva na forma como os seus projetos são financiados.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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Petralon Energy amplia produção em Dawes Island e junta-se à African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 como Patrocinadora Diamante

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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A Petralon Energy foi confirmada como Patrocinadora Diamante da Conferência e Exposição African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 — que decorrerá de 12 a 16 de outubro na Cidade do Cabo —, à medida que a empresa continua a avançar com as atividades de desenvolvimento no campo de Dawes Island e a expandir o seu papel no setor upstream da Nigéria. Com a produção agora estabelecida e poços adicionais a avançar para a conclusão, a Petralon está a posicionar-se para um crescimento incremental da produção, em linha com esforços mais amplos para revitalizar a produção doméstica de petróleo.

Esta estratégia é mais visível no campo de Dawes Island (PPL 259), no Delta do Níger, onde a Petralon avançou rapidamente desde a concessão da licença em 2022 até à primeira produção de petróleo em 2026 – um dos prazos mais rápidos no recente programa de campos marginais da Nigéria. Desde então, a empresa perfurou vários poços, incluindo o DI-2, que está atualmente em produção, e o DI-3, que atingiu a profundidade total no início de 2026 e deverá entrar em produção ainda este ano. Está previsto um quarto poço (DI-4) como parte da próxima fase de desenvolvimento, a par de investimentos em instalações de produção permanentes.

A produção inicial já resultou na evacuação de aproximadamente 158 000 barris de crude através do Terminal de Petróleo e Gás de Bonny, marcando um passo tangível rumo ao crescimento sustentado da produção. Estes desenvolvimentos estão alinhados com a política de «perfurar ou desistir» da Nigéria ao abrigo da Lei da Indústria Petrolífera, concebida para garantir que os titulares de licenças de campos marginais convertam a área em produção.

Para além das operações, o progresso da Petralon atraiu um apoio notável da indústria. Em fevereiro de 2026, a Shell Western Supply and Trading reconheceu publicamente a conquista da primeira produção de petróleo pela empresa, com o seu papel como compradora de crude e cofinanciadora a sublinhar a crescente confiança dos investidores em operadores locais capazes de executar projetos a um ritmo acelerado.

As atividades da Petralon refletem também uma mudança estrutural mais ampla no setor upstream da Nigéria, onde as empresas locais estão cada vez mais a assumir o controlo de ativos anteriormente detidos por grandes empresas internacionais. O desenvolvimento da Ilha de Dawes destaca-se no atual ciclo de campos marginais, em que relativamente poucas operadoras avançaram da concessão da licença para a produção sustentada num prazo comparável.

Olhando para 2026–2027, espera-se que a empresa se concentre no aumento da produção dos poços existentes, na entrada em funcionamento de novos poços e na expansão da infraestrutura do campo para apoiar a estabilidade da produção a longo prazo. Ao mesmo tempo, a Petralon mantém uma exposição indireta a alguns dos maiores ativos em águas profundas da Nigéria – incluindo Agbami, Akpo e Egina – através da sua participação na Prime Oil & Gas, proporcionando escala adicional e diversificação no seu portfólio.

«Empresas locais como a Petralon estão a demonstrar que o futuro do setor upstream africano será impulsionado pela execução, disciplina e compromisso a longo prazo com o desenvolvimento de ativos», afirmou NJ Ayuk, Presidente Executivo da Câmara Africana de Energia. «O seu progresso na Ilha de Dawes é um exemplo claro de como os operadores locais estão a transformar reformas políticas em resultados de produção e investimento que reforçam a segurança energética de África.»

À medida que a AEW 2026 reúne líderes do setor na Cidade do Cabo, o Patrocínio Diamante da Petralon Energy assinala o papel crescente das operadoras locais na concretização de um crescimento real da produção em todo o continente. Com projetos a avançarem da licença para a primeira produção de petróleo em prazos reduzidos e novos capitais a fluírem para os intervenientes locais, empresas como a Petralon estão a ajudar a redefinir a forma como o setor upstream africano se desenvolverá nos próximos anos.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

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African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Secretary General Ghezali to Address African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as African Energy Bank Nears Launch

Source: APO


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Farid Ghezali, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), will take the stage at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place October 12–16 in Cape Town. Ghezali leads the pan-African body that, alongside the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexibank), is spearheading the African Energy Bank (AEB) – a landmark institution expected to become operational by June 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria. His confirmation at AEW places Africa’s evolving financing architecture at the center of the event’s agenda.

Founded in Lagos in 1987, APPO has grown from eight founding member states to 18, representing the full breadth of Africa’s oil-producing nations from Algeria and Nigeria in the north and west to Namibia and South Africa in the south. Headquartered in Brazzaville, Congo, the organization underwent a major reform in 2019, broadening its mandate beyond market coordination to actively facilitate investment and financing across the continent. The AEB is the most significant product of that expanded mandate to date.

The bank is designed to fill the financing vacuum created by the withdrawal of Western institutions from African oil and gas projects. With over 150 essential projects stalled across the continent due to capital shortfalls, the AEB’s mandate covers the full value chain, from upstream exploration and midstream infrastructure through to downstream distribution. Established with an initial capitalization of $5 billion, the bank is targeting $10 billion in Phase 1 deployments, with a longer-term goal of raising $15 billion for oil and gas projects by 2030. Nigeria handed over the bank’s Abuja headquarters to APPO and Afrexibank in February 2026, signaling a crucial step toward its operational start.

Beyond direct project finance, Ghezali has stressed the AEB’s potential to transform how African National Oil Companies (NOC) access capital. APPO’s 18 NOCs have historically operated without a common financial platform, limiting their collective ability to attract large-scale investment. The bank is expected to support NOC listings, connecting sovereign producers to capital markets and sovereign wealth funds at scale, while also aiming to unify intra-African oil and gas pricing to deliver up to 30% in savings on energy imports across member states.

“The AEB represents more than a new financing institution. It is a statement that Africa intends to control the terms of its own energy development,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “APPO has spent years building the institutional groundwork and member-state alignment to make this credible.”

AEW 2026 – Africa’s largest energy gathering – will bring together policymakers, project developers, financiers and operators to assess how the AEB’s arrival reshapes the continent’s energy financing landscape. Ghezali’s address is set to be among the event’s most consequential sessions as Africa’s oil and gas sector navigates a decisive shift in how its projects are funded.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Petralon Energy augmente sa production à Dawes Island et devient sponsor Diamant de African Energy Week (AEW) 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Petralon Energy a été confirmée en tant que sponsor Diamond de la conférence et du salon African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, qui se tiendra du 12 au 16 octobre au Cap, alors que la société poursuit ses activités de développement sur le champ de Dawes Island et renforce son rôle au sein du secteur amont nigérian. La production étant désormais établie et des puits supplémentaires en voie d’achèvement, Petralon se positionne pour une croissance progressive de sa production, dans le cadre d’efforts plus larges visant à revitaliser la production pétrolière nationale.

Cette stratégie est particulièrement visible sur le champ de Dawes Island (PPL 259) dans le delta du Niger, où Petralon est passée rapidement de l’octroi de la licence en 2022 à la première production de pétrole en 2026 – l’un des calendriers les plus rapides du récent programme nigérian consacré aux champs marginaux. La société a depuis foré plusieurs puits, dont le DI-2, actuellement en production, et le DI-3, qui a atteint sa profondeur totale début 2026 et devrait être mis en production dans le courant de l’année. Un quatrième puits (DI-4) est prévu dans le cadre de la prochaine phase de développement, parallèlement à des investissements dans des installations de production permanentes.

La production initiale a déjà permis l’évacuation d’environ 158 000 barils de brut via le terminal pétrolier et gazier de Bonny, marquant une avancée concrète vers une croissance soutenue de la production. Ces développements s’inscrivent dans le cadre de la politique nigériane « drill or drop » (forer ou abandonner) prévue par la loi sur l’industrie pétrolière, qui vise à garantir que les titulaires de licences de champs marginaux transforment leurs concessions en production.

Au-delà des opérations, les progrès de Petralon ont suscité un soutien notable de la part du secteur. En février 2026, Shell Western Supply and Trading a publiquement salué la mise en production de la société, son rôle d’acheteur de brut et de cofinancier soulignant la confiance croissante des investisseurs dans les opérateurs locaux capables de mener à bien des projets à un rythme soutenu.

Les activités de Petralon reflètent également une évolution structurelle plus large dans le secteur amont nigérian, où les entreprises locales prennent de plus en plus le contrôle d’actifs précédemment détenus par les grandes sociétés internationales. Le développement de Dawes Island se distingue dans le cycle actuel des champs marginaux, où relativement peu d’opérateurs sont passés de l’octroi de la licence à une production soutenue dans un délai comparable.

D’ici 2026-2027, la société devrait se concentrer sur l’augmentation de la production des puits existants, la mise en service de nouveaux puits et l’extension des infrastructures du champ afin de garantir la stabilité de la production à long terme. Parallèlement, Petralon conserve une exposition indirecte à certains des plus grands actifs en eaux profondes du Nigeria – notamment Agbami, Akpo et Egina – grâce à sa participation dans Prime Oil & Gas, ce qui lui confère une envergure et une diversification supplémentaires au sein de son portefeuille.

« Des entreprises locales comme Petralon démontrent que l’avenir de l’amont en Afrique sera porté par l’exécution, la discipline et un engagement à long terme en faveur du développement des actifs », a déclaré NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de la Chambre africaine de l’énergie. « Leurs progrès à Dawes Island illustrent clairement comment les opérateurs locaux transforment les réformes politiques en résultats en matière de production et d’investissement qui renforcent la sécurité énergétique de l’Afrique. »

Alors que l’AEW 2026 rassemble les leaders du secteur au Cap, le parrainage « Diamond » de Petralon Energy témoigne du rôle croissant des opérateurs locaux dans la réalisation d’une croissance réelle de la production à travers le continent. Avec des projets passant de la licence à la première production de pétrole dans des délais raccourcis et de nouveaux capitaux affluant vers les acteurs locaux, des entreprises comme Petralon contribuent à redéfinir la manière dont le secteur en amont africain se développera dans les années à venir.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Gratitude pour une année de service pétrinien : Message à Sa Sainteté le Pape Léon XIV

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


L’Église, famille de Dieu en Afrique, s’unit à l’Église universelle pour rendre grâce avec joie à Dieu Tout-Puissant alors que Sa Sainteté le Pape Léon XIV célèbre le premier anniversaire de son pontificat en ce jour béni du 8 mai 2026, fête de Notre-Dame de Pompéi.

En ce jour providentiel, il y a un an, sous le regard aimant de la Bienheureuse Vierge Marie, l’Église a accueilli avec gratitude l’acceptation généreuse par Sa Sainteté de la mission qui lui a été confiée en tant que Successeur de Pierre. Dès le tout début de son ministère pétrinien, le Pape Léon XIV a guidé le Peuple de Dieu avec simplicité, sagesse, compassion et courage évangélique.

Tout au long de cette première année de son pontificat, son témoignage de foi et d’humilité est devenu une source d’espérance pour l’Église et pour le monde. Ses appels inlassables à la paix, à la réconciliation, à la justice et à la fraternité humaine ont touché les cœurs à travers les pays et renouvelé la confiance dans l’Évangile du Christ, en particulier parmi ceux qui souffrent de la guerre, de la pauvreté, des déplacements forcés et d’injustice sociale.

L’Église en Afrique reste profondément reconnaissante pour la visite apostolique de Sa Sainteté sur le continent. Sa présence parmi les peuples africains n’a pas été seulement un voyage pastoral, mais aussi un signe puissant de communion, de proximité et d’encouragement. Il est venu en Afrique en tant que véritable apôtre du Christ et messager de paix, fortifiant la foi des peuples, réconfortant les affligés, inspirant les jeunes et réaffirmant la dignité de chaque personne humaine.

Les paroles et les gestes de Sa Sainteté ont déjà porté d’abondants fruits spirituels au sein des Églises locales. Ils ont renouvelé le zèle missionnaire, encouragé la réconciliation là où persistent des blessures et des divisions, approfondi la solidarité entre les communautés ecclésiales et renforcé l’engagement de l’Église en faveur de la justice, de la paix et du développement humain intégral. Sa voix paternelle continue de résonner dans le cœur des fidèles, appelant tous à marcher ensemble dans la synodalité, l’espérance et la fidélité à l’Évangile.

En tant qu’Église, famille de Dieu en Afrique, le SCEAM renouvelle son attachement filial, ses prières et sa pleine communion avec Sa Sainteté. L’Église en Afrique confie son ministère à la protection aimante de la Bienheureuse Vierge Marie, Mère de l’Église et Notre-Dame de Pompéi, en priant pour qu’elle continue d’intercéder en sa faveur et de le soutenir par sa grâce et sa force dans sa mission universelle.

Que le Seigneur comble Sa Sainteté de sagesse, de bonne santé, de sérénité et de la joie durable de l’Esprit Saint, alors qu’il continue à guider l’Église sur les chemins de la paix, de l’unité et du salut.

Ad multos annos, Saint-Père.

† Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo
Archevêque de Kinshasa
Président of SECAM   

Distribué par APO Group pour Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM).

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Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO de la Fondation Merck, et les Premières Dames d’Afrique célèbrent la Journée Internationale des Filles et des Femmes de Science 2026 à travers leur « Programme de Bourses d’études », les « Prix MARS » et le Programme « Éduquer Linda »

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Fondation Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, célèbre la Journée Internationale des Filles et des Femmes de Science 2026 avec les Premières Dames d’Afrique et ses partenaires, notamment les Ministères Africains de la Santé, de l’Éducation, du Genre et de l’Information, ainsi que des établissements d’enseignement supérieur à travers leur « Programme de Bourses » et « Prix MARS ».

Sénatrice Rasha Kelej (Ret), CEO de la Fondation Merck, a souligné : « À l’occasion de la Journée Internationale des Filles et des Femmes de Science 2026, nous réaffirmons l’engagement fort de la Fondation Merck en faveur de l’autonomisation des femmes dans les sciences et les technologies grâce à notre Programme de Bourses, qui octroie des bourses médicales spécialisées à des professionnelles de santé africaines, et aux Prix MARS, qui récompensent et soutiennent des femmes scientifiques exceptionnelles dans les domaines des sciences, des technologies, de l’ingénierie et des mathématiques (STIM). »

La Fondation Merck a octroyé plus de 2 500 bourses à des professionnels de santé de 52 pays, couvrant 44 spécialités médicales essentielles et sous-représentées, et près de 1 200 bourses ont été attribuées à des femmes diplômées en médecine.

« Je suis fière que près de 50 % de nos plus de 2 500 bourses aient été attribuées à des femmes professionnelles de santé. Il s’agit d’une avancée significative pour réduire l’écart entre les sexes dans les sciences et renforcer le leadership des femmes dans les STIM (Sciences, Technologies, Ingénierie et Mathématiques). En effet, malgré des progrès remarquables à l’échelle mondiale, les femmes restent largement sous-représentées dans les domaines scientifiques et technologiques. À la Fondation Merck, nous œuvrons chaque jour pour combler cet écart », a ajouté le Dr. Rasha Kelej.

La Fondation Merck décerne chaque année les Prix MARS afin d’encourager et de récompenser les « Meilleures Chercheuses Africaines » et les « Meilleurs Jeunes Chercheurs Africains ». L’objectif des Prix MARS est de soutenir les femmes et les jeunes chercheurs africains, de développer leurs compétences en recherche et de promouvoir leur contribution aux STIM. La Fondation Merck a déjà récompensé plus de 90 lauréates.

La CEO de la Fondation Merck a récemment organisé, en collaboration avec ses partenaires, Société Africaine des Soins de la Reproduction (ARCS) et l’Université de Manipal, une cérémonie virtuelle de remise de prix afin de récompenser les chercheurs africains pour leurs précieux travaux de recherche et leur contribution à l’autonomisation des femmes et des jeunes dans les domaines des sciences, des technologies, de l’ingénierie et des mathématiques (STIM) en Afrique, avec un accent particulier sur « Le rôle de la recherche scientifique dans la santé des femmes et les soins de reproduction et de fertilité ». Elle a également annoncé l’appel à candidatures pour les Prix MARS 2026.

Regardez la vidéo de la cérémonie de remise des Prix MARS 2025 du Sommet de Recherche en Afrique de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/4ti4ToW

Candidatures pour les Prix MARS 2026 : https://apo-opa.co/4nanIZr

La Fondation Merck est convaincue que l’éducation est un levier essentiel de l’autonomisation des femmes et constitue le fondement et le facteur clé d’un changement significatif.

« Dans le cadre de notre programme Éduquer Linda, et en collaboration avec mes chères sœurs, les Premières Dames d’Afrique, nous avons octroyé cette année plus de 1 200 bourses d’études à des écolières africaines méritantes mais défavorisées, issues de 19 pays. Ce programme leur permet de poursuivre leurs études et de réaliser pleinement leur potentiel », a déclaré le Dr. Kelej.

Par ailleurs, la Fondation Merck sensibilise le public à l’importance de soutenir l’éducation des filles grâce à diverses initiatives créatives : livres pour enfants inspirants, films d’animation, chansons de sensibilisation et émissions spéciales consacrées à ce thème dans le cadre de son programme télévisé « Notre Afrique par la Fondation Merck ».

Regardez les épisodes de « Notre Afrique » consacrés au soutien à l’éducation des filles :

Épisode 2 : https://apo-opa.co/4tfDKCW

Épisode 11 : https://apo-opa.co/3QS5IHk

Épisode 14 : https://apo-opa.co/3P8Cnrw

Lisez le livre d’histoire « Éduquer Linda » ici : https://apo-opa.co/4tYWmsc#

Regardez les films d’animation de la Fondation Merck sur le soutien à l’éducation des filles :

Écoutez les chansons engagées de la Fondation Merck pour l’autonomisation des femmes et l’éducation des filles :

  1. Regardez, partagez et abonnez-vous à la chanson « Girls Can », interprétée par Cwesi Oteng (Ghana) et Irene Logan (Libéria) : https://apo-opa.co/4erRo2b
  2. Regardez, partagez et abonnez-vous à la chanson « Like Them », interprétée par Kenneth, chanteur ougandais renommé : https://apo-opa.co/4d8Lpgo
  3. Regardez, partagez et abonnez-vous à la chanson « Take me to School », interprétée par Wezi, chanteuse afro-soul zambienne, pour soutenir l’éducation des filles : https://apo-opa.co/4tQFfIN
  4. Regardez, partagez et abonnez-vous à la chanson portugaise « Tu Podes Sim » (qui signifie « Oui, tu peux » en français), interprétée par Blaze et Tamyris Moiane, chanteuses mozambicaines : https://apo-opa.co/3QKAaTT 
  5. Regardez, partagez et abonnez-vous à la chanson « ABC, 123 » de Sean K (Namibie) : https://apo-opa.co/4tjMCYi
  6. Écoutez, partagez et abonnez-vous à la chanson « Brighter Day », interprétée par Sean K (Namibie) et Cwesi Oteng (Ghana) : https://apo-opa.co/4cRxfRY
  7. Écoutez et partagez la chanson « Superwoman », interprétée par Cwezi et Adina (Ghana) : https://apo-opa.co/4n6DLaJ

Distribué par APO Group pour Merck Foundation.

Contact :
Mehak Handa
Responsable du programme de sensibilisation communautaire
Téléphone : +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
E-mail : mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Rejoignez la conversation sur nos plateformes de réseaux sociaux ci-dessous et faites entendre votre voix :
Facebook : https://apo-opa.co/4d0U9oz
X : https://apo-opa.co/4tMsa3f
YouTube : https://apo-opa.co/4w7LBVE
Instagram : https://apo-opa.co/48HCCRf
Threads : https://apo-opa.co/4urBR75
Flickr : https://apo-opa.co/4urBRE7
Site Web : www.Merck-Foundation.com
Télécharger l’Application de la Fondation Merck : https://apo-opa.co/3QS5IXQ

À propos de la Fondation Merck : 
La Fondation Merck, créée en 2017, est la branche philanthropique de Merck KGaA Allemagne, vise à améliorer la santé et le bien-être des populations et à faire progresser leur vie grâce à la science et à la technologie. Nos efforts sont principalement axés sur l’amélioration de l’accès à des solutions de soins de santé de qualité et équitables dans les communautés mal desservies, à renforcer les capacités de recherche sur les soins de santé et la recherche scientifique, l’autonomisation des filles à travers l’éducation et l’autonomisation des personnes en STEM (Science, Technologie, Ingénierie et Mathématiques) avec un accent particulier sur les femmes et les jeunes. Tous les communiqués de presse de la Fondation Merck sont distribués par e-mail en même temps qu’ils deviennent disponibles sur le site Web de la Fondation Merck. Veuillez visiter www.Merck-Foundation.com pour en savoir plus. Pour en savoir plus, contactez nos réseaux sociaux de la Fondation Merck : Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4d0U9oz), X (https://apo-opa.co/4tMsa3f), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/48HCCRf), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4w7LBVE), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4urBR75) et Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4urBRE7).

La Fondation Merck se consacre à l’amélioration des résultats sociaux et sanitaires pour les communautés dans le besoin. Bien qu’elle collabore avec divers partenaires, y compris des gouvernements, pour atteindre ses objectifs humanitaires, la fondation reste strictement neutre sur le plan politique. Elle ne s’engage pas et ne soutient pas d’activités, d’élections ou de régimes politiques, se focalise uniquement sur sa mission d’élever l’humanité et d’améliorer le bien-être tout en maintenant une position strictement apolitique dans toutes ses activités.

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Deputy President underscores development of rural communities as key to prosperous SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President underscores development of rural communities as key to prosperous SA

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for an end to the dualistic rural economy, where a few commercial farmers dominate output while millions of smallholder farmers remain excluded from sharing in the gains of the economy.

“We must link subsistence farmers to markets, foster partnerships, and build value chains that unite rather than divide so agriculture becomes a driver of shared prosperity,” the Deputy President said on Friday in Bloemfontein.

Mashatile was addressing rural development and land reform stakeholders at the National Rural Development Indaba, where he stressed that transforming and integrating the agricultural sector requires a shared responsibility approach.

He urged the sector to work together with the government in building rural communities that are safe, productive, connected, and fully integrated into the economy.

“At the heart of many rural economies lies agriculture. But we must be frank: subsistence farming alone cannot lift rural communities out of poverty. 

“Our task is to build a productive, competitive, and transformed agricultural sector that creates jobs; supports agro-processing and rural industrialisation; integrates emerging farmers into value chains; and strengthens food security while growing the economy,” the Deputy President said.

This requires secure land tenure, post-settlement support, access to inputs and finance, and real market participation.

“It is within this context that the work of strategic coordinating departments such as the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, the Department of Small Business Development, and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition assumes strategic national importance.

“These departments, along with the various institutions and partners they collaborate with, remain essential in ensuring that the country capitalises on its competitive advantages and the growth opportunities it presents,” the Deputy President said.

He added that 30 years of the country’s development-based democracy have shown that South African cannot develop rural and urban economies separately. 

“Our rural areas supply food, labour, energy, and natural resources. Our urban centres provide markets, technology, finance, and services. These are bound together in a single economic system.

“We must therefore abandon the false choice between rural and urban development and embrace integrated spatial planning, aligned infrastructure investment, and regional value-chain development. 

“Sustainable rural development depends on strong, connected urban centres just as urban prosperity depends on strong rural producers,” the Deputy President said.

He mentioned that the Government’s 30-Year Review emphasises that South Africa’s strategy should integrate agriculture, tourism, mining, natural resources, and forestry while being backed by strong economic infrastructure, including roads, water and sanitation, public facilities, and telecommunications. 

“By prioritising the vibrancy of rural economies, the government aims not only to improve local livelihoods but also to curb the increasing migration pressures on urban centres,” Mashatile said.

The Deputy President made the point that the slow growth of rural economies leads to migration towards cities, as rural communities struggle with limited access to infrastructure, economic opportunities, and essential services, driving people to urban centers for better prospects.

 “While urbanisation is a global trend, in our context it often reflects uneven development and limited economic prospects in rural regions. Addressing these spatial and economic imbalances requires a shift toward an integrated, multi-sectoral approach to development,” he said.

To address migration towards cities, Mashatile advocated for targeted, coordinated action by civil society, government, and private partners to rebalance urban and rural development.

Safety and security 

The key to rural development is security, specifically rural safety and social cohesion, as development cannot take root where people live in fear, Mashatile said.

“Rural crime, stock theft, gender-based violence, and insecurity discourage investment and weaken the bonds of our communities.

“Safety must never be treated as an afterthought. It is an integral pillar of rural development. Without safety, there is no stability; without stability, there is no investment; and without investment, there is no renewal,” the Deputy President said.

Addressing rural safety requires a comprehensive strategy beyond policing. 

“Key actions include strengthening rural policing through specialised units, empowering community safety structures (like neighbourhood watches and youth forums), and fostering collaboration among SAPS, traditional leaders, and local government.

“The strategy should also leverage technology for rural communication and surveillance while prioritising social cohesion programmes to combat gender-based violence and restore confidence in rural communities,” Mashatile said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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