Category: Africa

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UTM Offshore, Seplat Energy et la NNPC signent un accord d’approvisionnement en gaz pour le premier projet FLNG mené par des acteurs locaux au Nigeria

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


UTM Offshore a signé un accord de vente de gaz (GSA) avec la société pétrolière et gazière Seplat Energy et la Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), marquant ainsi une avancée décisive dans le développement du premier projet FLNG mené par des acteurs locaux au Nigeria. Cet accord constitue l’un des derniers éléments commerciaux indispensables avant la décision finale d’investissement, renforçant ainsi la confiance dans un projet qui devrait soutenir la stratégie de monétisation du gaz du Nigeria tout en développant les exportations de GNL et l’utilisation du gaz sur le marché intérieur.

La Chambre africaine de l’énergie (AEC) – qui se fait le porte-parole du secteur énergétique africain – félicite UTM Offshore, la NNPC et Seplat Energy d’avoir conclu cet accord historique. La Chambre considère le GSA comme une avancée significative vers l’exploitation des vastes ressources gazières offshore du Nigeria grâce à un leadership local et à une collaboration stratégique. Alors que l’Afrique cherche à maximiser la valeur de ses ressources en gaz naturel tout en renforçant la sécurité énergétique et le développement industriel, des projets tels que l’UTM FLNG démontrent comment les entreprises africaines peuvent mener des développements d’infrastructures d’envergure mondiale qui génèrent des investissements, créent des emplois et positionnent le continent comme un fournisseur de GNL plus compétitif.

Situé dans le champ en eaux profondes de Yoho, au large du Nigeria, le projet FLNG devrait produire 176 millions de pieds cubes par jour une fois opérationnel. Les activités d’ingénierie et de pré-construction sont achevées ; l’opérateur s’attache désormais à la signature du contrat d’achat-vente (SPA) et à la décision finale d’investissement (FID), après le franchissement de l’étape clé que constitue l’accord de vente et d’achat (GSA). Sur le plan financier, le projet a obtenu un financement par emprunt auprès d’Afreximbank ainsi que des engagements en fonds propres de la part de la NNPC et du gouvernement de l’État du Delta. Les entreprises technologiques mondiales JGC Holdings et Technip Energies examinent actuellement le contrat EPCIC, soutenant ainsi le projet alors qu’il progresse vers son objectif de mise en service en 2030.  

« La signature de ce GSA démontre ce qu’il est possible de réaliser lorsque des entreprises locales, des institutions nationales et des investisseurs privés travaillent ensemble vers une vision commune. UTM FLNG est plus qu’un simple projet de GNL ; c’est un modèle montrant comment l’Afrique peut commercialiser ses ressources gazières sous la houlette africaine, créer de la valeur économique à long terme et renforcer la sécurité énergétique tout en fournissant une énergie plus propre aux marchés nationaux et internationaux », déclare NJ Ayuk, président exécutif de l’AEC.

Les avancées du projet UTM FLNG interviennent à un moment charnière pour le secteur du gaz naturel au Nigeria, alors que le pays recherche de nouveaux investissements s’inscrivant dans le cadre de son initiative « Décennie du gaz ». Axée sur la transformation du pays en une économie fondée sur le gaz d’ici 2030, cette initiative vise à réduire le torchage du gaz, à améliorer l’accès à l’énergie tout en monétisant les 200 billions de pieds cubes de réserves prouvées de gaz du pays. Des projets tels que l’UTM FLNG constituent une pierre angulaire de cette stratégie, en augmentant la capacité d’exportation du Nigeria et en renforçant sa position sur les marchés énergétiques mondiaux.

Au-delà des exportations, le projet a également été conçu pour soutenir les ambitions énergétiques nationales du Nigeria. Environ 300 000 tonnes de GPL par an seront fournies au marché local, favorisant ainsi l’utilisation de combustibles de cuisson plus propres dans les foyers et réduisant la dépendance vis-à-vis des importations.

« C’est formidable de voir des entreprises comme Seplat Energy se joindre à ce projet stratégique. Nous sommes convaincus que l’installation FLNG renforcera la position du Nigeria en tant que l’un des principaux producteurs de GNL en Afrique, tout en servant de modèle pour la valorisation des ressources gazières offshore à l’échelle du continent. En combinant une participation locale, des partenariats stratégiques et une ingénierie de classe mondiale, ce projet démontre comment des initiatives menées par l’Afrique peuvent accélérer l’industrialisation, réduire le torchage du gaz et tirer davantage de valeur des abondantes ressources en gaz naturel du continent », a ajouté M. Ayuk.

Distribué par APO Group pour African Energy Chamber.

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Flawed credit ratings in Africa: are top 3 western agencies driven by data or bias?

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Misheck Mutize, Post Doctoral Researcher, Graduate School of Business (GSB), University of Cape Town

The three major credit rating agencies – Moody’s, S&P Global and Fitch – have often differed among themselves when rating African institutions and countries. Their opinions don’t have to be aligned, but a huge gap in the ratings suggests inaccuracies in the analyses.

Wrong ratings have consequences. They drive up the cost of capital. Lower ratings indicate higher risk, and lead investors to demand higher interest rates to compensate for that risk. When a sovereign (country) is downgraded, its borrowing costs increase. It has to pay more interest on the same amount of debt, and has less chance of getting funding for development.

In the last three years there have been notable examples of rating agencies differing significantly in their decisions.

The first example is African Export-Import Bank. Between June 2025 and June 2026, the three major agencies reached materially different conclusions about the creditworthiness of the bank. The African Union has highlighted the flawed ratings.

Read more: Africa’s development banks are being undermined: the continent will pay the price

The second example is Fitch Ratings’ downgrade of the Nigerian industrial group Dangote Industries Limited on 6 August 2024. It cited risk linked to the construction of a refinery. A year later, the Dangote Oil Refinery proved to be a transformative project that rebalanced Nigeria’s trade position. It reduced the country’s imports and increased its domestic production. Fitch was wrong and its rating downgrades put the completion of the project at risk.

The African Finance Corporation shows a similar divide. S&P New York and its Chinese subsidiary gave widely differing assessments.

And finally, Moody’s downgraded Kenya in July 2024 while S&P maintained its B-rating.

These examples highlight the same problem: the differences between rating agencies ostensibly looking at the same set of risk factors.

In my view these discrepancies present African countries with two opportunities:

  • challenge the ratings

  • diversify their ratings and funding relationships away from the western markets.

Lastly, the differences highlight the need for rating agencies to be more objective and base their ratings on factual data and fundamentals.

The differences

Fitch downgraded the African Export-Import Bank twice, from BBB to BBB- in June 2025 and subsequently to BB+ in January 2026 before withdrawing its rating. This means Fitch stopped assigning ratings to the bank after its contract was cancelled.

Both Moody’s and S&P maintained investment-grade ratings, assigning Baa2 and BBB+, respectively. This is a three notch difference between Fitch and S&P on the same institution.

This rarely happens in other continents because the three international rating agencies assess largely similar risk factors in an entity’s ability to repay its loans.

The question is whether Fitch’s three-notch downgrades of Afreximbank were driven by facts about the bank or by analysts’ own subjective misjudgements.

Asian agencies tend to recognise the policy importance of Afreximbank, which plays a strategic role in financing Africa’s trade and development. As a result they recognise its preferred creditor status, that its member countries continue to repay the bank’s loans even during periods of crises.

Fitch, however, argued that Afreximbank’s role in Africa was diminishing and it was not a preferred creditor because the International Monetary Fund said so.

S&P Global Ratings aligned with China’s Chengxin International Credit and Japan Credit Rating Agency.

When Fitch Ratings downgraded Dangote Industries it said the risk was refinancing linked to a new oil refinery. Fitch speculated that delays in meeting funding requirements would make financial restructuring or default more likely, and that could trigger further downgrades.

Faced with such a conservative and speculative outlook, Dangote Industries Limited decided to end its contract with Fitch Ratings. It said the rating no longer made commercial sense and the group would instead focus on securing ratings from African-based rating agencies.

A year later, the Dangote Oil Refinery has turned Nigeria into a regional exporter and bolstered its energy security.

Moody’s downgraded Kenya on 8 July 2024 after the government withdrew planned tax hikes in response to protesters. S&P decided to wait for Kenya’s August 2024 budget.

The Moody’s downgrade resulted in a two-notch rating split on Kenya between Moody’s and S&P. Within six months Moody’s had reversed the downgrade with an outlook upgrade. Skipping from negative, past “stable”, to positive. It is highly unusual for a rating agency to revise its outlook within six months and to skip one notch.

It can be argued that the revision was an implicit admission by Moody’s that its earlier ratings were incorrect.

Kenya incurred approximately US$150 million in additional interest costs on existing Eurobond debt as investors rushed to sell off their bonds.

Alternatives

The high cost of capital, driven by weak ratings from the international rating agencies, is pushing Africa to shift towards Asia for foreign funding sources.

Five African countries have already issued a combined US$5 billion in bonds from Japan, China, Hong Kong, Korea and the United Arab Emirates over the past two years. This shift has made Asian rating agencies more relevant as no country or institution would raise capital in Asia without a rating from local rating agencies. These are giving some African institutions stronger assessments than their western peers. Asian agencies are equally independent and credible.

When Fitch Ratings downgraded Afreximbank to speculative grade, Asian rating agencies saw it differently. Chengxin International Credit Ratings Co. kept a stable AAA rating on Afreximbank. Japan Credit Rating Agency rates the bank A- stable for its Samurai bond programme. They differ widely from Fitch on the same institution, with the same balance sheet and the same mandate.

What needs to change

The widening rating splits among the three international rating agencies present an opportunity for African sovereigns and their institutions.

First, rather than accepting rating assessments that prove to be analytically flawed, African sovereigns and their institutions must challenge these ratings. In my view this will help the rating agencies be more thorough. It will also bring flawed ratings to the attention of international investors.

Second, African entities need to diversify their ratings and funding relationships away from the western markets. Domestic rating agencies have demonstrated a more nuanced understanding of local realities.

Lastly, the rating agencies need to be more objective. Analysts’ sentiments and frustrations should not find their way into the rating process.

– Flawed credit ratings in Africa: are top 3 western agencies driven by data or bias?
– https://theconversation.com/flawed-credit-ratings-in-africa-are-top-3-western-agencies-driven-by-data-or-bias-286364

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President Dr Patrick Herminie Chairs Third Presidential Economic Advisory Council Meeting on Agriculture, Food Security and National Resilience

Source: APO


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The President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie, today chaired the third meeting of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council at State House, continuing the Council’s strategic deliberations on the future of agriculture and its role in strengthening Seychelles’ food security, economic resilience and national well-being.

The meeting built on the Council’s previous discussions, with particular focus on the policies and investments required to support a modern, productive and sustainable agriculture sector capable of meeting the country’s long-term development aspirations. Members also considered the important interrelationship between agriculture, nutrition and public health, recognising that resilient food systems are fundamental to the health and quality of life of the Seychellois people.

Also in attendance were Ms Jeniffer Vel, Chief of Staff and Economic Advisor to the President, and Secretary to the Council; Mr Wallace Cosgrow, Principal Minister and Minister for Fisheries, Agriculture and the Blue Economy; Mr Kevin Nancy, Principal Secretary for Agriculture; and members of the Presidential Economic Advisory Council.

The Council was briefed on current developments within the agriculture sector, including ongoing initiatives to strengthen domestic production, enhance biosecurity, improve institutional coordination and reinforce technical support for farmers.

Deliberations centred on the structural priorities necessary to unlock the sector’s full potential. These included improving access to finance, strengthening water security and energy efficiency, investing in agricultural technology and innovation, developing local skills, enhancing market linkages, promoting value addition, and encouraging production models that are commercially viable, environmentally responsible and responsive to the evolving needs of the country.

Members also highlighted the importance of ensuring that research, innovation and technical expertise are translated into practical solutions that improve productivity, strengthen farmer resilience and support evidence-based policy development.

Addressing the Council, President Herminie reaffirmed that agriculture remains a strategic national priority and an essential pillar of Seychelles’ long-term development. He emphasised that building a resilient agriculture sector requires coordinated action across Government, the private sector, financial institutions, research organisations and farming communities. The President underscored the importance of expanding access to finance, embracing technological innovation, improving resource efficiency, and creating an enabling environment that encourages investment, productivity and sustainable growth.

The President further noted that strengthening domestic agricultural production extends beyond food security. It is equally an investment in public health, economic resilience and national self-reliance, ensuring that future generations benefit from a food system that is secure, sustainable and capable of withstanding external shocks.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing a coherent national approach to agricultural transformation, recognizing that sustained progress will depend on strong partnerships, innovation, strategic investment and policies that empower producers while safeguarding the country’s long-term food security and sustainable development objectives.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Treasury launches probe into Madlanga Commission allegations

Source: Government of South Africa

Treasury launches probe into Madlanga Commission allegations

National Treasury has announced the launch of an investigation into allegations of improper conduct involving a former National Treasury employee.

The investigation comes after testimony given at the Madlanga Commission and will be conducted by external forensic investigators.

“It has been alleged at the Madlanga Commission that a former employee improperly influenced the awarding of various transversal contracts during his time at the National Treasury. In light of the seriousness of the allegations presented, the National Treasury has initiated an investigation into the awarding of transversal contracts concluded during this period.

“The investigation will test the veracity of the allegations made and, importantly, determine any measures needed to further strengthen the procurement and award processes within the transversal contracting system. Findings of this investigation will be made public in the interest of public trust and good governance,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.

Furthermore, the department said it has already started processing the Commission’s documentation requests.

“National Treasury… will continue to ensure that the Commission’s work is fully supported by the department.

“The National Treasury remains committed to transparency, accountability and integrity in public procurement and will take all necessary steps to ensure that any allegations of misconduct are thoroughly investigated and consequence management is applied,” the department assured.

Transversal contracts

Explaining the nature of transversal contracts, National Treasury explained that these are procurement arrangements that the department facilitates for “goods and services required by multiple public sector entities.

At the department itself, these contracts are managed by the Office of the Chief Procurement Officer, who is responsible for “sourcing strategy, bid process, and contract award”.

“All transversal contracts managed by the National Treasury involve line departments who participate in the procurement process.

“For example, if a transversal contract is for the South African Police Service [SAPS], officials from SAPS would participate in the Bid Specification, Bid Evaluation and Bid Adjudication Committees, where they provide sector-specific expertise, confirm demand requirements, and contribute to evaluation and recommendation processes,” the department explained.

Additionally, public sector entities may choose to utilise transversal contracts.

“However, procurement transactions are conducted directly between the participating institution and the appointed suppliers. This model therefore combines centralised contracting with decentralised purchasing.

“The National Treasury recognises public interest in this matter; however, to protect the integrity of the investigation, the department will not provide media interviews while the process is underway,” National Treasury said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tourism Minister welcomes Turkish decision to increase direct flights

Source: Government of South Africa

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille has welcomed the decision by the Turkish Airlines to increase its direct services between South Africa and Türkiye to 20 weekly flights to strengthen air connectivity between the two countries.

From October 2026, the airline will operate 10 weekly direct flights between Istanbul and Johannesburg and 10 weekly direct flights between Istanbul and Cape Town. 

Turkish Airlines currently operates seven weekly flights to Johannesburg and seven weekly flights to Cape Town. The additional flights will be introduced ahead of South Africa’s summer tourism season.

“This expansion is the result of deliberate engagements between Department of Tourism and Turkish Airlines, supported by growing demand for travel to South Africa.

“It is another vote of confidence in our tourism sector and aligns with our efforts to improve air access through the Tourism Growth Partnership Plan. More flights mean more visitors, more trade, more investment, and ultimately, more jobs,” De Lille said.

The increased frequency is supported by strong market performance. In May 2026, arrivals from Türkiye increased by 92% compared with the same month in 2025, highlighting the growing demand for travel between the two countries.

South Africa’s tourism sector continues to build strong momentum following a record 10.5 million international arrivals in 2025. Between January and May 2026, the country welcomed 4 761 108 international visitors, representing a 12.8% year-on-year increase.

To further stimulate demand, South African Tourism and Turkish Airlines have agreed to implement a joint destination marketing campaign to promote travel between the two countries and support strong passenger demand on the expanded route network.

The announcement follows a series of positive developments in South Africa’s international air connectivity.

In June, Spanish carrier Air Europa launched its inaugural direct service between Madrid and Johannesburg, while last week Brazil’s LATAM Airlines commenced three weekly direct flights between São Paulo and Cape Town.

These developments reinforce the implementation of the Cabinet-approved Tourism Route Development Marketing Plan, which seeks to expand direct connectivity, strengthen strategic airline partnerships, and unlock new tourism and investment opportunities for South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

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Report into KZN healthcare workers’ deaths released

Source: Government of South Africa

Report into KZN healthcare workers’ deaths released

The Health Ombud has found that a series of deaths involving healthcare professionals at public health establishments in KwaZulu-Natal was not as a result of workplace bullying, victimisation, or adverse working conditions at hospitals under investigation.

The investigation probed the deaths of six healthcare workers at the Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, Addington Hospital, Port Shepstone Hospital, Ngwelezane Hospital, Benedictine Hospital and Vryheid Hospital.

The investigation report was released by Health Ombud, Professor Taole Mokoena, during a media briefing on Wednesday.

“The Health Ombud found no evidence linking the deaths directly to workplace bullying, victimisation, or adverse working conditions in the hospitals under investigation.

“However, the investigation identified significant systemic challenges affecting healthcare professionals across all the aforementioned health establishments,” an Ombud statement read.

Key findings of the investigation include:
•    Dr Alulutho Mazwi, a medical intern at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital, did not die while on duty, as widely reported. Dr Mazwi had been suffering from uncontrolled diabetes.
•    Dr Tumelo Kgaladi of Addington Hospital died at his residence. The investigation found that he had a history of mental health problems, which he had not disclosed to the authorities.
•    Mr Mvelo Cele, a radiographer at Port Shepstone Hospital, died while on duty. An autopsy confirmed he died of cardiac arrest. There is no evidence linking his death to workplace conditions.
•    Dr Siyabonga Zulu of Ngwelezane Hospital died in a motor vehicle accident while off duty. There is no link between his death and his work environment.
•    Dr S.I. Ngidi of Benedictine Hospital died after ingesting rat poison while off duty. The investigation found that he had been implicated in a fraudulent birth registration.
•    Dr Francis Idika of Vryheid Hospital died of natural causes from a ruptured aortic aneurysm. The investigation found no evidence to support allegations that he died by suicide due to workplace bullying or victimisation

“While no direct causal link was established between the deaths and working conditions, the investigation identified serious systemic concerns across several health establishments.

“These include persistent staffing shortages, frozen vacant posts, rising workloads, shortages of medical equipment and supplies, inadequate employee wellness support services, infrastructure challenges, and security concerns affecting healthcare workers,” the statement noted.

Employee wellness
 

While the investigation did not find any direct links to the deaths and workplace health, the Ombud found increased pressure and under resourced employee wellness services is affecting staff.

“The investigation also found that many healthcare professionals, particularly interns, experience significant pressure to avoid taking sick leave due to concerns about extending training rotations and increasing other colleagues’ workloads.

“In some facilities, employee wellness and support services were found to be under-resourced and unable to adequately meet staff needs.

“The Health Ombud further noted that ongoing budget constraints within the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health have contributed to staffing shortages and resource limitations, negatively affecting both healthcare workers’ morale and service delivery,” the statement read.

The Ombud has made several recommendations for each hospital including:
•    Strengthening employee wellness programmes
•    Improving staff support systems
•    Addressing security concerns
•    Enhancing oversight and accountability
•    Ensuring compliance with the prescribed norms and standards for healthcare establishments

“The report’s findings and recommendations will be referred to the Office of Health Standards Compliance [OHSC] for monitoring and implementation as per Statutes. The Health Ombud will continue to work closely with the OHSC to ensure that the recommendations translate into meaningful improvements in healthcare worker well-being, patient safety and the quality of care.

“[Ombud] Professor Taole Mokoena and his staff extend their condolences to the families, colleagues and communities affected by these deaths.

“The investigation underscores the need to create safe, supportive and adequately resourced working environments for healthcare professionals and to ensure that public healthcare establishments continue to deliver quality services to all healthcare users,” the statement concluded.

At the briefing, Minister of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi reiterated condolences to the affected families and staff at the six hospitals.

“No report, no matter how thorough it is, can fill the void left by the loss of loved ones. The pain carried by parents, spouses, children, siblings, friends and colleagues cannot be measured in findings, recommendations and statistics. It is always painful regardless of the cause of death and who might be responsible.

“Hence, on behalf of the National Department of Health, I once again extend our deepest condolences to every family affected by these tragedies which nobody expected.
“The healthcare officials whose lives were lost, were not only employees…but they were…individuals who chose a profession dedicated to caring for others. We honour their memory today and we will always remember them,” Motsoaledi said.

The full report including findings and recommendations can be accessed at https://healthombud.org.za.  – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Advancing Healthcare and Social Change: Dr. Rasha Kelej Honored on the “100 Most Impactful Voices 2026” List by ABCD Africa

Source: APO

Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), has been recognized among the “100 Most Impactful Voices 2026” by ABCD Africa, a prestigious recognition celebrating influential women of African descent who are using their platforms to inspire change, amplify important social conversations, and drive meaningful impact across communities. The list features prominent women leaders and changemakers from 54 African countries and also includes the President of Tanzania. The list came out on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2026.

This latest recognition adds to a series of international accolades received by Dr. Rasha Kelej for her leadership and impactful social initiatives. She was recently named among the “100 Most Influential Africans 2025” by New African Magazine and has also been recognized among the “100 Most Influential African Women” by Avance Media for the seventh consecutive year, alongside Africa’s prominent leaders including Presidents, First Ladies, and Prime Ministers. These recognitions highlight her unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, girls’ education, and improving access to quality and equitable healthcare across Africa.

Expressing her gratitude, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation said, “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition and to be included in the ‘100 Most Impactful Voices 2026’ list. I sincerely thank ABCD Africa for acknowledging my work over the past 14 years to build healthcare capacity, transform the patient care landscape, break infertility stigma, empower women, and support girl education in Africa and beyond. This recognition is truly very special to me, and it inspires me to continue my efforts to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people.

I also congratulate all the deserving women who have been recognized on this list. Together, we will continue to use our voices to inspire positive change and create a better future for our communities.”

Under Dr. Kelej’s leadership, Merck Foundation has transformed the patient care landscape and built healthcare capacity across Africa and other developing regions.

“We have provided over 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from more than 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties, helping to improve access to quality and equitable healthcare,” shared Dr. Kelej.

Dr. Rasha Kelej is also the creator of the “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” campaign, a pioneering movement that aims to empower infertile and childless women through access to information, education, health and change of mindset. Dr. Kelej works closely with more than 33 African and Asian First Ladies who are the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” to lead Merck Foundation programs in their countries. “I really enjoy working with dear sisters, the First Ladies of Africa and Asia, we are not just partners, we are more than friends, I enjoy our sisterhood and respect it,” Dr. Kelej emphasized.

Moreover, Dr. Kelej is a strong advocate for education as one of the most critical areas of women’s empowerment. Therefore, in partnership with African First Ladies, Merck Foundation has provided, year to date, more than 1200 annual scholarships to high-performing and underprivileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, enabling them to complete their studies and reach their potential. The program is actively running across several African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe and others.

Dr. Rasha Kelej has established the “Art and Fashion with Purpose” community to address critical health and social issues, including breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending female genital mutilation and child marriage, stopping gender-based violence, and raising awareness about diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. She has launched several community awareness programs including Health Media Trainings, Songs, Children Storybooks, Animation Films, Awards for best Media, Song, Film and Fashion design, and also a Pan-African TV program “Our Africa”.

Overview of Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact under the leadership of Dr. Rasha Kelej:

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2500+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 4000+ Media Representatives from more than 42 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion.

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa in English, French, Portuguese, and local languages.

• 9 Children’s Storybooks in four languages – English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili

• 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community.

• 1200+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 19 countries, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential.

  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4y6Yws9
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Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4vNFc1r
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4vjziUQ
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4fpshgh

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4y6Yws9), X (https://apo-opa.co/4yhSMMj), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4yfuGBS), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3QWAdwj), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4vNFc1r) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4vjziUQ).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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Cassim to engage Unisa over NSFAS payment delays

Source: Government of South Africa

Cassim to engage Unisa over NSFAS payment delays

Newly appointed Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Yusuf Cassim will on Thursday undertake his first official public engagement with a visit to the University of South Africa’s (Unisa) in Pretoria, where he will engage stakeholders on delays in National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) allowance payments.

The visit follows numerous complaints received through the Deputy Minister’s Helpdesk from students regarding delays in the payment of NSFAS allowances and the discontinuation of data allowances for distance-learning students.

During the visit, Cassim will meet with student leaders and Unisa management to discuss the reported causes of the payment delays, assess their impact on students and receive an update on measures being implemented to resolve the challenges.

Cassim reaffirmed his commitment to the Deputy Minister’s Helpdesk, established by his predecessor, Dr Mimmy Gondwe. The Helpdesk serves as a “helping hand”, providing swift and personalised support to students by escalating queries and grievances and driving meaningful solutions.

“Deputy Minister Cassim has long championed student access and success in higher education, dating back to his student leadership days. Therefore, as his first public engagement, he felt it is important to gain a firsthand understanding of the NSFAS allowances issue and the measures taken to address the challenges effectively,” the department said in a statement.

The Deputy Minister will be accompanied by senior officials from the Department of Higher Education and Training and NSFAS.

The department said the Deputy Minister’s Helpdesk is being migrated to an online platform to provide faster, digitally enhanced support. In the meantime, students requiring assistance can submit queries via email to: Dmsdesk@dhet.gov.za – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Deputy President to launch multi-stakeholder anti-crime council

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President to launch multi-stakeholder anti-crime council

Deputy President Paul Mashatile is expected to officially launch the uMgungundlovu District Municipality’s Multi-Stakeholder Anti-Crime Council on Thursday, as government steps up efforts to tackle crime through stronger community partnerships.

The launch, taking place in Caluza, Pietermaritzburg, will see the inauguration of 300 Anti-Crime Councillors who will work alongside government, law enforcement agencies, business, traditional leaders and community structures to strengthen crime prevention across the district.

According to the Presidency, the initiative forms part of the Deputy President’s delegated responsibility to support the implementation of the District Development Model (DDM), which aims to improve coordination across the three spheres of government and address challenges including crime, poor service delivery, unemployment and poverty.

The invitation was extended by uMgungundlovu District Mayor, Councillor Mzi Zuma.

The uMgunglovu District comprises the Msunduzi, uMngeni, Mpofana, uMshwati, Impendle, uMkhambathi and Richmond local municipalities.

The Multi-Stakeholder Anti-Crime Council brings together stakeholders from government, the private sector, traditional leadership and local communities in a coordinated effort to combat crime and support law enforcement.

The Presidency described the launch as an important milestone in building a collaborative approach to crime prevention, with the newly appointed Anti-Crime Councillors expected to play a key role in mobilising communities and strengthening partnerships against criminal activity.

“The Deputy President has welcomed this multi-agency approach where all relevant departments, community stakeholders and the business community view crime prevention as a shared responsibility and collective priority, with government departments, traditional leaders, faith communities, families, schools, labour markets, retail establishments and law enforcement authorities working together to confront and ultimately defeat the scourge of crime,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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eThekwini approves host city agreement with Cricket South Africa

Source: Government of South Africa

eThekwini approves host city agreement with Cricket South Africa

eThekwini Municipality has taken a major step towards hosting matches during the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 after Council approved the signing of a Host City Agreement with Cricket South Africa.

The agreement paves the way for Durban to host matches during one of international cricket’s premier tournaments, reinforcing the city’s position as a leading destination for major sporting events, tourism, and investment.

Council authorised City Manager Musa Mbhele to sign the Host City Agreement on behalf of the municipality.

The tournament is expected to attract thousands of international visitors, cricket supporters, commercial partners and global media, providing an opportunity to showcase Durban’s tourism attractions, cultural heritage, world-class sporting facilities, and investment potential.

The municipality said hosting the event is expected to stimulate economic activity across the hospitality, accommodation, transport, retail and entertainment sectors, while creating opportunities for local businesses, employment and skills development.

The Executive Director for Community Services, Dr Vusi Mazibuko has been designated as the lead executive responsible for coordinating the implementation of the Host City Agreement within the municipality.

“An allocation of R600 000 has been provided in the 2026/27 financial year budget to support preparatory and implementation activities linked to Durban’s Host City obligations.

“The full scope of municipal responsibilities and related operational requirements will be finalised during the implementation process and will be incorporated into future budgeting and approval processes,” the council said.

Durban, Portugal explore stronger ties

Meanwhile, eThekwini Municipality and Portuguese cities are set to explore closer cooperation in culture, trade and tourism following discussions between eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba and Portuguese Ambassador to South Africa, Carlos Costa Neves.

Neves and his delegation met with Xaba in Durban on Monday to discuss areas of collaboration, with a focus on preserving shared cultural heritage and exploring strategic socioeconomic partnerships.

Among the key outcomes of the meeting was an agreement to explore formal sister-city partnerships between Durban and the Portuguese cities of Lisbon and Porto.

Xaba said the proposed partnerships will strengthen cooperation and promote mutual growth in key sectors including maritime trade, tourism, municipal infrastructure, and knowledge exchange.

“As a city, we view these developments as a significant step towards enriching Durban’s cultural landscape while unlocking new opportunities for international trade, investment, and tourism,” Xaba said.

Xaba also announced plans to relocate the statue of renowned Portuguese writer and poet Fernando Pessoa from the Durban Central Business District to the Durban Botanic Gardens.

He said the proposed relocation will preserve the monument while placing it in a safer, more accessible tourism and heritage destination.

“Fernando Pessoa occupies a unique place in Durban’s history. He lived in the city during his formative years from 1895 to 1905 and attended Durban High School. It was here that he mastered the English language, a skill that profoundly influenced his early literary works and contributed to his international acclaim,” Xaba said.

Neves welcomed the municipality’s decision to relocate the Fernando Pessoa statue and expressed support for strengthening collaboration between eThekwini and Portuguese cities. – SAnews.gov.za

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