Category: Africa

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Denmark lauds the Moroccan autonomy plan as a good basis for a mutually agreed solution by all parties to the Moroccan Sahara issue

Source: APO


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This position was expressed by Denmark’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, in a statement to the press on Friday during a visit to Copenhagen by Mr. Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

In this context, Rasmussen declared that “Denmark lauds, in line with the European Union’s position, the adoption of UNSC Resolution 2797.”

The Danish head of diplomacy also praised the Moroccan autonomy proposal, calling it “credible” and noting that it “brings a serious and essential contribution to the ongoing UN process,” reiterating that the plan is a “good basis for a mutually agreed solution by all parties.”

Through this position, Denmark, a member of the UNSC, reaffirms that it is part of the international momentum created under the impetus of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, in support of Morocco’s sovereignty over its Sahara and the Moroccan autonomy plan.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

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Think before you share: SAPS warns against AI police images

Source: Government of South Africa

Think before you share: SAPS warns against AI police images

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State is cautioning members of the public to refrain from using artificial intelligence (AI) to create and share photographs of themselves wearing SAPS uniform or showing themselves being arrested by the police. 

“The trend of using AI and face-swapping applications to create realistic photographs in police and other official uniforms may seem like harmless fun. However, the SAPS warns that these images can easily be mistaken for real photographs and may have serious consequences if they are used to mislead or deceive others. 

“The public is reminded that impersonating a police official is a criminal offence,” SAPS said in a statement on Friday.

Section 68 of the South African Police Service Act 68 of 1995 prohibits people from falsely presenting themselves as members of the SAPS or creating the impression that they are connected to the Service. Section 66 also regulates the unauthorised use of SAPS uniforms, badges and insignia. 

“The SAPS emblem and badge are also legally protected. The official SAPS badge was registered with the Bureau of Heraldry on 31 October 1995 and may not simply be copied, altered or used without the required permission.

“This includes using the SAPS emblem or badge on personal social media profiles or in other forms of personal representation.

“Even SAPS members themselves are not free to use the uniform and insignia as they please on social media. National Instruction 5 of 2017 regulates how members may use social media and restricts the use of photographs of members in uniform and SAPS insignia on private social media accounts without the required authorisation,” the statement read.

SAPS said it was concerned about AI-generated photographs showing people being arrested. It said these images can falsely suggest that a person has been arrested or involved in criminal activity when that never occurred. This, the police said, could be used to mislead, embarrass or harm someone.

“SAPS stresses that simply creating an AI image does not automatically mean that a person has committed a crime. However, how the image is used, what it is intended to portray, and whether it is used to deceive or impersonate a police official will be important.”

While noting that AI can be used for entertainment and to follow social media trends, the police reiterated its warning. 

“When police uniforms, insignia or supposed arrests are involved, people need to be responsible. The SAPS uniform represents authority and public trust and should not be used as a costume or to create a false identity,” said the Provincial Commissioner of the Police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia. 

“The message is simple: Think before you post. What looks like harmless fun today could have serious consequences tomorrow,” Lesia concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Eritrea: Nationals in Juba Celebrate Bahti Meskerem

Source: APO

Nationals residing in Juba, Republic of South Sudan, enthusiastically celebrated the 65th anniversary of the beginning of the armed struggle for Eritrean independence.

At the celebratory event held on 1 September at the premises of the Eritrean Embassy in Juba, Mr. Tsegay Mehari, Eritrea’s Consul in Juba, said that the Eritrean people launched the armed struggle for independence on 1 September 1961 after their right to independence had been denied under the guise of a federal arrangement.

Underlining that strong organizational capacity is key to victory, Mr. Teklebrhan Solomon, deputy chairman of the national committee, called for reinforced efforts to achieve better outcomes.

The event was highlighted by an artistic performance by students of the Eritrean community school in Juba.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Denmark and Morocco reaffirmed, on Friday in Copenhagen, the excellence and strategic nature of their bilateral relations, marked by a sustained dynamic and a shared determination to elevate this partnership to a strategic level

Source: APO – Report:

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This was expressed during a meeting between the Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Mr. Nasser Bourita.

The two ministers highlighted the historical, excellent, and strategic nature of relations between the two Kingdoms and agreed on an upcoming visit to Morocco by the Danish Minister of Foreign Affairs to conclude a strategic partnership focused on strengthening political dialogue.

In this regard, the Danish head of diplomacy emphasized the importance of the partnership between Denmark and Morocco, describing the Kingdom as a “reliable partner” and a “driver for growth and development” in the region and in Africa at large.

The new Moroccan-Danish partnership will also aim to promote economic and commercial ties across several sectors, notably water technologies, renewable energies, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and agri-food, as well as infrastructure.

On this occasion, the two ministers noted the importance of Danish investments in Morocco and agreed to further promote contacts between enterprises and the business community through the creation of a Moroccan-Danish business council.

The new strategic partnership will also include a migration component, which will serve to consolidate the excellent cooperation between the two countries in this area and to further strengthen it through tailored mechanisms and tools.

– on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

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President Ramaphosa to address SAPS Commemoration Day

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa to address SAPS Commemoration Day

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Sunday join the families and colleagues of police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty at the annual South African Police Service (SAPS) Commemoration Day at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

“The solemn event will take place at the SAPS Memorial Site at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where the nation will honour and remember members of the SAPS who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the people of South Africa,” said the Presidency.

This year’s commemoration pays tribute to 12 SAPS members who lost their lives in the line of duty during the 12-month period from 01 April 2025 to 31 March 2026. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Youth head to Cuba for medical training

Source: Government of South Africa

Youth head to Cuba for medical training

A cohort of 18 young recruits from disadvantaged backgrounds will pursue medical studies in the Republic of Cuba through the Nelson Mandela Fidel Castro Medical (NMFC) Training Programme.

The move, backed by the Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH), marks a major investment in South Africa’s future healthcare leaders.

“The aspiring doctors represent the province’s commitment to investing in young people from historically disadvantaged backgrounds and creating opportunities for them to realise their dreams of becoming healthcare professionals.

“Upon completion of their studies, the students will join Gauteng’s growing pool of medical practitioners, contributing to improved access to quality healthcare services, particularly in underserved and rural communities.

“Their training will also support the ongoing strengthening of Primary Health Care (PHC) services and the future implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI), helping to build a more equitable healthcare system for all,” the GDoH said.

The 18 were chosen through a rigorous recruitment process which received some 2 480 applications from across Gauteng.

Of the applications, some 740 candidates met the requirements and 91 were shortlisted based on a set of criteria including academic performance, their socioeconomic circumstances and their “potential to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare sector”.

“The shortlisted candidates came from households with an annual income of R350 000 or less. Priority was given to learners from Quintile 1 to 3 schools in Gauteng, ensuring that the programme continues to expand access to higher education opportunities for young people who may otherwise face financial barriers to studying medicine.

“Following rigorous assessments, including home visits, interviews and background evaluations, 18 candidates were ultimately selected. Throughout the process, emphasis was placed not only on academic excellence but also on candidates’ commitment to serving their communities and improving healthcare outcomes in South Africa.

“Successful candidates demonstrated a strong commitment to returning to serve the country and applying the knowledge and skills acquired through the programme to strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly in areas where shortages of healthcare professionals remain a challenge,” the GDoH explained.

Some 463 students have graduated through the NMFC programme since its inception and are now serving in Gauteng public healthcare facilities.

“Many of the graduates are already making a significant impact in public healthcare facilities across Gauteng, and the department is confident that this new cohort will continue that legacy of service and excellence.

“The Cuban medical training curriculum places a strong emphasis on Primary Health Care, prevention and health promotion, aligning closely with South Africa’s healthcare priorities. Graduates return with valuable expertise that strengthens community-based healthcare services and supports government efforts to reduce the burden of disease through preventative interventions.

“The NMFC programme continues to transform lives while strengthening the country’s healthcare system. The programme empowers talented students from disadvantaged backgrounds to become medical doctors while equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to serve the people of South Africa,” the GDoh said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Uganda: Government (Gov’t) to introduce parole and non-custodial sentences

Source: APO

Government is drafting parole rules that will see eligible prisoners serve part of their sentences outside prison as one of the measures to reduce overcrowding.

The Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Robinah Nabbanja told Parliament that the proposed parole rules are being considered by the First Parliamentary Counsel, the office responsible for drafting and reviewing legislations.

“The Uganda Prisons Service is finalising the Parole Rules and Regulations, currently before the First Parliamentary Counsel to govern the safe release of eligible inmates,” said Nabbanja during the weekly Prime Minister’s time on Thursday, 03 September 2026.

Under the parole arrangement, the beneficiaries remain under supervision and may be required to report to a parole officer, maintain good conduct and participate in rehabilitation programmes. A prisoner who breaches the conditions may be returned to custody.

The Prime Minister was responding to Kampala District Woman MP, Hon. Shamim Malende who raised concern over extreme overcrowding and prolonged detention of suspects on remand.

Malende said delays in the judicial system are causing suspects to remain in prison longer than the sentences they would ordinarily receive if convicted.

“We have people who should serve six months but end up spending three years on remand because their cases are not heard in time,” Malende said.

Nabbanja added that the Prisons Service is working with Justice, Law and Order stakeholders to expand non-custodial sentences where punishments are served outside prison including community service. These are applied to offenders whose detention may not be necessary.

She stated that video conferencing systems have been installed in 21 prisons across the country.
Nabbanja named Luzira Upper Prison, Arua, Mbarara, Lira, Soroti, Fort Portal and Kabale Districts as some of the detention areas that  allow prisoners to appear before judicial officers through video links without being transported to court.

“There is also a programme to expand prisons infrastructure with construction ongoing at several prisons including Sembabule, Lwengo, Kabula, Buwama, Paidha, Nakasongola, Ndorwa, Murchison Bay, Arua, Kitgum, Rakai and Mutukula, she said adding that, ’in the 2026/2027 financial year, government plans to construct 37 prison wards in Mityana, Mbarara and Kibaale Districts’. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Parliament of the Republic of Uganda.

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Seychelles: 33 Recruits Graduate During Seychelles Defence Force Coast Guard Passing Out Ceremony

Source: APO

Thirty-three recruits officially joined the ranks of the Seychelles Defence Forces today after successfully completing a demanding four-month training programme.

The recruits graduated during the Passing Out Ceremony for Intake 02/2026, held at the Seychelles Defence Forces .

The ceremony was attended by Commander-in-Chief Dr Patrick Herminie, Commissioner of Police Compol Godfra Hermitte, Major General Michael Rosette, Colonel Michael Hollanda, senior military officers, family members and invited guests, who gathered to celebrate the graduates’ important milestones.

After months of intensive physical, academic and practical military training, the graduates were formally presented as newly appointed Privates, marking the beginning of their careers in service to the nation.

Newly Private Sarah Etheve addressed her fellow graduates during her remarks, stating that the journey had not been an easy one, but that through determination and resilience, they had made it through. She said there were days when they felt discouraged, and they held each other’s hands and said, ‘We are the soldiers.’

Addressing the graduates, Major General Michael Rosette praised their determination and resilience throughout the training programme.

‘Today you have the privilege of wearing the uniform of the Seychelles Defence Forces. With that comes the responsibility to serve your country with integrity, discipline, professionalism and dedication,’ he said.

He encouraged them to carry forward the values of discipline, professionalism and integrity as they begin their careers within the Seychelles Defence Force.

The ceremony also recognised recruits who demonstrated outstanding performance during the course.

Private Lisa Dubois received the award for Best Academic Performance, after excelling in classroom studies throughout the training. The Best in Practical Studies award was presented to Private Kurt Allissop for outstanding performance during hands-on and field exercises.

The highest honour of the intake, Best Overall Recruit, was awarded to Private Gael Renaud in recognition of his consistent excellence, leadership, discipline and overall commitment throughout the programme.

The Passing Out Ceremony marked not only the successful completion of their training, but also the beginning of a new chapter of national service for the young Privates as they prepare to contribute to the safety and security of Seychelles.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Bénin: Mobilisation avant la rentrée : Les trois priorités stratégiques du Ministre Adéyèmi Clément KOUCHADÉ

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Ministre de l’Enseignement Secondaire, Monsieur Adéyèmi Clément KOUCHADÉ, a entamé le jeudi 3 septembre 2026, une visite de prise de contact avec les acteurs du système éducatif de son sous-secteur. Il a saisi l’occasion des Journées pédagogiques nationales de réflexion et de concertation des enseignants pour insister sur trois priorités stratégiques en vue d’une prochaine rentrée scolaire apaisée. 

Les départements du Couffo et du Mono ont eu l’honneur d’accueillir le Ministre de l’Enseignement Secondaire, Monsieur Adéyèmi Clément KOUCHADÉ, à l’occasion des Journées pédagogiques nationales de réflexion et de concertation des enseignants de l’enseignement secondaire général, qui se tiennent les 3 et 4 septembre 2026. Le thème retenu cette année est : « Éducation à l’engagement citoyen et au respect des valeurs républicaines dans l’enseignement secondaire général au Bénin : état des lieux, enjeux et perspectives ». 

Au CEG Aplahoué ainsi qu’à la Direction Départementale de l’Enseignement Secondaire du Mono, le Ministre a d’abord insisté sur l’amélioration des résultats scolaires. Il a souligné la nécessité d’une concertation étroite avec tous les acteurs du système éducatif et de la mise en place de dispositions appropriées par le Gouvernement pour garantir de meilleurs résultats dès la prochaine rentrée. Le Ministre a ensuite mis un accent particulier sur la promotion des sciences. À ce titre, il a invité chaque acteur à accorder une attention particulière à l’apprentissage des matières scientifiques et à encourager les filles à poursuivre leur scolarité et à s’orienter vers les filières scientifiques. 

Enfin, le Ministre Adéyèmi Clément KOUCHADÉ a témoigné de la volonté du Gouvernement d’améliorer les conditions de travail dans le secteur. En termes clairs, il s’est solennellement engagé à poursuivre les efforts entrepris par l’État pour l’amélioration continue des conditions de travail du personnel enseignant et administratif. 

La délégation ministérielle s’est également rendue sur le chantier du Collège d’excellence de Grand-Popo, une infrastructure porteuse de grands espoirs pour la région, malgré quelques défis qui subsistent. Cette immersion dans les départements du Couffo et du Mono ne constitue que la première étape. La tournée nationale du Ministre se poursuivra dans les autres départements dans les prochains jours.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

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Sécurité intérieure : Le Bénin consolide ses partenariats avec l’Union africaine et la Fondation Hanns Seidel

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Le Ministre chargé de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité publique poursuit le dialogue avec les différents partenaires de son département ministériel. Ainsi, le jeudi 03 septembre 2026, il a reçu à son cabinet, la visite d’une délégation de la Fondation Hanns Seidel, composée de la Coordonnatrice et Directrice régionale de ladite Fondation, Madame Aridja FRANK. 

Les échanges ont porté sur la nouvelle convention de collaboration entre les deux institutions, l’organisation de la prochaine conférence de sécurité intérieure, ainsi que les diligences à mettre en place pour la définition et la mise en œuvre d’un agenda d’exécution des différentes activités. 

Au terme de la séance, le Ministre Djibril MAMA CISSÉ a exprimé toute sa satisfaction au regard de la constance dont fait preuve la Fondation Hanns Seidel dans son partenariat stratégique avec le ministère. Il a promis à ses hôtes de tout mettre en œuvre pour, d’une part, la signature rapide de la nouvelle convention de partenariat et, d’autre part, la réussite des activités prévues pour le compte de l’année 2026. 

Avant la réception de la délégation de la Fondation Hanns Seidel, le Ministre Djibril MAMA CISSÉ s’était entretenu, le mercredi 02 septembre 2026, avec une délégation de la Commission de l’Union africaine conduite par S.E. M. Bankole ADEOYE, Commissaire aux Affaires politiques, à la Paix et à la Sécurité. Ce dernier est venu exprimer la solidarité de l’organisation continentale envers le Bénin et ses Institutions. 

La démocratie, la stabilité politique, la vie des partis politiques, la sécurité et la coopération sécuritaire sous-régionale étaient au cœur des échanges entre la délégation et le Ministre, assisté de plusieurs de ses collaborateurs. 

À l’issue de la rencontre, S.E. M. Bankole ADEOYE a réitéré la disponibilité de l’Union africaine à apporter son soutien et son expertise dans divers domaines, tout en invitant les responsables du ministère à solliciter les différents mécanismes d’accompagnement déjà opérationnels.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

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