Category: Africa

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SANDF deployment to fight illegal mining a ‘critical’ intervention

Source: Government of South Africa

SANDF deployment to fight illegal mining a ‘critical’ intervention

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has welcomed the deployment of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers to the province to support police in the fight against illegal mining.

The deployment was announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the State of the Nation Address in Cape Town last week.

“This firm intervention…underscores the gravity of the crisis and the urgent necessity for a coordinated, robust response to dismantle highly organised criminal syndicates that have terrorised communities and undermined the rule of law,” the committee said in a statement.

The committee noted that it has consistently “raised concerns about the devastating impact of illegal mining” in the province.

“During a recent unannounced oversight visit to the Bekkersdal Police Station, the committee received deeply disturbing reports of zama zamas [illegal miners] intimidating residents, perpetrating violent crimes and holding entire communities hostage through fear and lawlessness.

“Equally alarming are reports that more than 600 families were allegedly forced to flee their homes in Randfontein as a result of escalating violence linked to illegal mining activities, with displaced residents compelled to seek refuge in community halls.

“The committee reiterates that illegal mining is not a minor or isolated offence. It is an entrenched, organised criminal enterprise that endangers lives, destroys infrastructure, destabilises communities and erodes public confidence in the state’s ability to protect its citizens,” the statement said.

The committee said a “more aggressive, integrated, multi-agency approach is required to decisively confront and eradicate this criminal menace”.

“In this regard, the deployment of the SANDF represents a critical and long-overdue intervention – one that the committee has repeatedly recommended. 

“The committee is confident that this decisive action will significantly strengthen law-enforcement operations, restore safety and stability in affected areas as well as send a clear and unequivocal message that criminality will not be tolerated in Gauteng.

“The [committee] will closely monitor the implementation and impact of the SANDF deployment and remains committed to working with all spheres of government to ensure that Gauteng is decisively reclaimed from illegal mining and that communities are able to live free from fear, violence and intimidation,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

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Weather outlook: 16 February – 22 February

Source: Government of South Africa

Weather outlook: 16 February – 22 February

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has advised that on Monday the country will experience partly cloudy, warm-to-hot conditions over the western interior, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers possible from the afternoon.

“There is a yellow level 2 warning of severe thunderstorms over the central and southern parts of the Northern Cape for today, expected to result in a high likelihood of minor impacts of damaging winds, hail, and heavy downpours that may lead to localised floods, with the likelihood expected to decrease to medium by Tuesday afternoon,” SAWS Meteorologist Lehlohonolo Thobela said.

Possible flooding due to heavy downpours:

  • Monday: low chance (40%) – Northern Cape (central and western parts).
  • Tuesday: low to medium chance (40%) – Northern Cape (central and southern parts).
  • Wednesday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Northern Cape (western parts), Eastern Cape (eastern half), and southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Thursday: Low chance (40%) – KwaZulu-Natal and Highveld of Mpumalanga.
  • Friday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape.
  • Saturday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%): Free State, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and the southern parts of North West.
  • Sunday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape, eastern parts of Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Free State.

Possible severe thunderstorms:

  • Monday: low chance (40%) – Northern Cape (central and western parts).
  • Tuesday: low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Northern Cape (central and southern parts).
  • Wednesday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Northern Cape (western parts), Eastern Cape (eastern half), and the southern parts of KwaZulu-Natal.
  • Thursday: Low chance (40%) – KwaZulu-Natal and the Highveld of Mpumalanga.
  • Friday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape.
  • Saturday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – Free State, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, and the southern parts of North West.
  • Sunday: Low chance (40%) – Northern Cape, eastern parts of Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, and Free State.

Winds (not associated with thunderstorms):

  • Monday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – east and south coast of South Africa.
  • Tuesday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – east coast of South Africa.
  • Wednesday: Low chance (40%) – south-west coast and east coast in the evening.
  • Thursday: Low chance (40%) – West Coast of South Africa and southern parts of the Northern Cape.
  • Friday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%)- south coast of South Africa.
  • Saturday: Low chance – south coast of South Africa.
  • Sunday: Low to medium chance (40% – 60%) – east coast of South Africa and the interior of the Eastern Cape province.

“Members of the public and stakeholders are strongly urged to continuously monitor official SAWS forecasts and warnings, as warnings will be updated as the likelihood and severity of impacts become clearer. 

“The public is also advised to remain cautious of unauthorised or unverified information sources and refrain from distributing such information further,” Thobela said. –SAnews.gov.za

 

nosihle

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Hawks launch manhunt for suspects involved in shooting of a police Sergeant

Source: Government of South Africa

Hawks launch manhunt for suspects involved in shooting of a police Sergeant

The East London Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit have launched an intensive, coordinated manhunt for suspects involved in the fatal shooting of serving police sergeant, Ndodomzi Dion Tengile (42), at Zizamele Township, in Butterworth. 

The member was attached to Visible Policing at Port St Johns South African Police Service (SAPS) and was off duty at the time of the incident. The Hawks have been seeking public assistance in order to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

The attack allegedly occurred during the early hours of 2 February 2024, at approximately 02:05 at the said place. 

“Preliminary findings indicated that Tengile was travelling with his spouse from Port St Johns to Msobomvu,” the Hawks said in a statement.

It is alleged that after withdrawing business-related funds from First National Bank (FNB) in Butterworth, the couple returned to their residence at Zizamele Township.

Shortly thereafter, while Tengile remained seated inside his motor vehicle, two unidentified armed suspects reportedly approached him. Gunshots were ostensibly fired, fatally wounding the officer. 

“The suspects allegedly robbed the spouse of cash and personal belongings before fleeing with the Toyota Fortuner of the deceased. A murder case docket was opened, and the matter was handed over to the Hawks for intensive investigation. The vehicle was later recovered abandoned not far from the crime scene,” the Hawks said.

A multidisciplinary team was activated comprising seasoned detectives, forensic experts, and crime intelligence operatives to ensure that the perpetrators were traced and apprehended without delay. 

However, no arrest has been effected at the moment, hence the police are seeking public assistance. 

The Hawks are appealing to any person, who may have witnessed suspicious movements at Zizamele Township during the specific date, to come forward. 

Information may be shared anonymously to the investigating officers, Colonel Raymond Buys on 082 301 1135 and Warrant Officer Sandisile Zenzile on 082 772 3664, or via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App. 

All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality, and callers may remain anonymous. The investigation continues with priority status. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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V appoints Reach Africa as advertising partner to expand Smart TV advertising across Africa

Source: APO

Reach Africa (www.ReachAfrica.com) has announced a key new partnership with V, the company formerly known as VIDAA – the fastest-growing Smart TV platform embedded at device level across a rapidly expanding base of African households. This appointment strengthens Reach Africa’s operating system layer, alongside its existing partnerships across multiple original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), platforms, free streaming channel environments, and broadcasters.

This partnership addresses a longstanding market challenge around fragmentation and scale by giving advertisers expanded access to premium audiences via the device OS layer, enabling consistent reach, brand-safe environments and high-impact placements that complement existing app and publisher environments across the continent.  VIDAA today already powers millions of Smart TVs across the African continent, working with renowned OEMs such as Hisense, Toshiba, and over 400 other brands.

Ryan Silberman, founder at Reach Africa, says this is a significant win for the African Connected TV (CTV) market, as advertisers now have access to premium, full screen and highly viewable placements directly on the TV Home screen, native discovery formats and contextual video environments.

“We’re effectively enabling brands to add new moments earlier in the viewing journey, alongside in-content and app-based environments, with measurable delivery and frequency control. Combined with Reach Africa’s aggregation and reporting layer, advertisers can expect improved targeting, transparent measurement and the ability to plan CTV campaigns with the same confidence and scale as traditional television, alongside the precision of digital.”

Silberman says that as Smart TV adoption has ramped up across the continent, the African CTV landscape has remained fragmented, with advertisers often required to plan and buy inventory app by app. “By integrating with VIDAA at the OS layer, we can simplify access to premium CTV environments, enabling more streamlined planning as the market continues to mature. This also allows us to expand our role while continuing to work closely with publishers, platforms and the broader ecosystem,” says Silberman.

Guy Edri, CEO of V, says: “Africa represents one of the most exciting growth frontiers for Smart TV advertising. Partnering with Reach Africa enables V to scale premium inventory across Sub-Saharan Africa while ensuring brands connect with audiences in ways that are locally relevant, measurable, and impactful.”    

Silberman says the partnership will prioritise ongoing innovation, including richer data signals, improved local content discovery, the growth of streaming channels and monetisation opportunities beyond global platforms alongside local and regional services.

“By opening up OS level inventory, we’re also creating new revenue opportunities for regional publishers, broadcasters and content owners, helping local platforms sit alongside international services to create a more balanced and inclusive ecosystem,” adds Silberman.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Reach Africa.

For media queries, please contact:
Roxanne Manning
+27 76 826 8333
oxanne@rvmcommunications.co.za

ABOUT REACH AFRICA:
Reach Africa is a leading Connected TV (CTV) specialist simplifying access to premium CTV audiences across Africa. Operating across Smart TV OEMs, streaming platforms and broadcaster environments, Reach Africa enables scaled, brand-safe Advertising Video on Demand (AVOD) and Free Ad Supported TV (FAST) campaigns through a single buying layer. By reducing fragmentation across the ecosystem, Reach Africa helps advertisers plan, buy and measure CTV more effectively, while supporting sustainable revenue growth for platform and content partners.          

For more information, please visit www.ReachAfrica.com

ABOUT V:
Formerly known as VIDAA, V is a global, open platform for the connected home. Powering tens of millions of Smart TVs worldwide, V brings together entertainment, services, commerce, payments, smart home control, and advertising into a unified, content-first experience – designed to make modern living simpler, more intuitive, and more connected.

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Binance and Franklin Templeton Advance Strategic Collaboration with Institutional Collateral Program

Source: APO

Franklin Templeton, a global investment leader and Binance (www.Binance.com), the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and users, announced a new institutional off-exchange collateral program, making digital markets more secure and capital-efficient. Now live, eligible clients can use tokenized money market fund shares issued through Franklin Templeton’s Benji Technology Platform as off-exchange collateral when trading on Binance.

The program alleviates a long-standing pain point for institutional traders by allowing them to use traditional regulated, yield-bearing money market fund assets in digital markets without parking those assets on an exchange. Instead, the value of Benji-issued fund shares is mirrored within Binance’s trading environment, while the tokenized assets themselves remain securely held off-exchange in regulated custody. This reduces counterparty risk, letting institutional participants earn yield and support their trading activity without hedging on custody, liquidity, or regulatory protections.

“Since partnering in 2025, our work with Binance has focused on making digital finance actually work for institutions,” said Roger Bayston, Head of Digital Assets at Franklin Templeton. “Our off-exchange collateral program is just that: letting clients easily put their assets to work in regulated custody while safely earning yield in new ways. That’s the future Benji was designed for, and working with partners like Binance allows us to deliver it at scale.”

“Partnering with Franklin Templeton to offer tokenized real-world assets for off-exchange collateral settlement is a natural next step in our mission to bring digital assets and traditional finance closer together,” said Catherine Chen, Head of VIP & Institutional at Binance. “Innovating ways to use traditional financial instruments on-chain opens up new opportunities for investors and shows just how blockchain technology can make markets more efficient.”

Assets participating in the program remain held off-exchange in a regulated custody environment, with tokenized money market fund shares pledged as collateral for trading on Binance. Custody and settlement infrastructure is supported by Ceffu, Binance’s institutional crypto-native custody partner.

“Institutions increasingly require trading models that prioritize risk management without sacrificing capital efficiency,” said Ian Loh, CEO of Ceffu. “This program demonstrates how off-exchange collateral can support institutional participation in digital markets while maintaining strong custody and control.”

Launching the institutional off-exchange collateral program expands on both Franklin Templeton’s and Binance’s growing networks of off-exchange program partners and represents another effort since announcing Franklin Templeton and Binance’s strategic collaboration in September 2025.

By using Benji to bridge tokenized money market funds, Franklin Templeton is taking trusted investment products and making them work in modern markets—allowing institutions to trade, manage risk, and move capital more efficiently as digital finance becomes an everyday part of the financial system.

Offering more tokenized real-world assets on Binance meets the increasing institutional demand for stable, yield-bearing collateral that can settle 24/7. This gives investors greater choice and enhances their trading experience on the world’s largest regulated digital asset exchange.

Franklin Templeton is a pioneer in digital asset investing and blockchain innovation, combining tokenomics research, data science, and technical expertise to deliver cutting-edge solutions since 2018. Learn more at Franklin Templeton Digital Assets.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Binance.

About Binance:
Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Binance is trusted by more than 300 million people in 100+ countries for its industry-leading security, transparency, trading engine speed, protections for investors, and unmatched portfolio of digital asset products and offerings from trading and finance to education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 features. Binance is devoted to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people around the world with crypto as the fundamental means.

For more information, visit: www.Binance.com

About Ceffu:
Ceffu is an institutional-grade custody platform offering custody and liquidity solutions that are ISO 27001 & 27701 certified and SOC2 Type 2 attested. Our multi-party computation (MPC) technology, combined with a customizable multi-approval scheme, provides bespoke solutions allowing institutional clients to safely store and manage their virtual assets.

For the purposes of this program, custody services for Benji-issued tokenized money market fund shares are provided by Ceffu Custody FZE, a virtual asset custodian licensed and supervised in Dubai.

About Franklin Templeton:
Franklin Templeton is a trusted investment partner, delivering tailored solutions that align with clients’ strategic goals. With deep portfolio management expertise across public and private markets, we combine investment excellence with cutting-edge technology. Since our founding in 1947, we have empowered clients through strategic partnerships, forward-looking insights, and continuous innovations – providing the tools and resources to navigate change and capture opportunity.

With more than $1.7 trillion in assets under management as of January 31, 2026, Franklin Templeton operates globally in more than 35 countries.

To learn more, visit www.FranklinTempleton.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

Franklin Resources, Inc. [NYSE:BEN]

All investments, including money funds, involve risk, including loss of principal. There are risks associated with the issuance, redemption, transfer, custody, and record keeping of shares maintained and recorded primarily on a blockchain. For example, shares that are issued using blockchain technology would be subject to risks, including the following: blockchain is a rapidly-evolving regulatory landscape, which might result in security, privacy or other regulatory concerns that could require changes to the way transactions in the shares are recorded.

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Rasha Kelej underscore their commitment to partner with Senegal First Lady to support girl education and build healthcare and media capacity

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 12th Edition of their annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia. The conference was co-chaired by H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, First Lady of Gambia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of More Than a Mother. First Lady of Senegal, H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE along with The First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, Liberia, Nigeria, and São Tomé and Príncipe joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) expressed, “I am very happy to meet my dear sister, H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”. We had a very meaningful discussion about our ongoing joint programs in the country to transform the public healthcare landscape and raise awareness about a wide range of social health issues. I am happy to share that we have so far provided 29 scholarships for Senegalese doctors in many specialties such as Oncology, Diabetes, Fertility, and Embryology. We also discussed scalping up of the programs.”

H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” shared, “It is a great pleasure to partner and work closely with Merck Foundation. I deeply appreciate their programs, and I am very excited to share that together we have launched the Educating Linda program in my country, through which we are providing annual scholarships to 40 best performing schoolgirls who are underprivileged.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has provided 29 scholarships for our doctors across key specialties such as oncology, fertility, embryology and diabetes. All of these scholarships are of great importance and are helping us transform our patient care landscape.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Senegal & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4tFiLuF

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/3MDjWdg

On Day 1 of the conference, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 took place, featuring keynote speeches of First Ladies of Africa. Moreover, a high-level ministerial panel discussion was also held with African Ministers to discuss the Merck Foundation African Research Summit MARS strategy to build scientific research capacity and empower women in STEM with special focus on scientific research. 

On Day 2 of the conference, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/4aR7AaJ

Together with Senegal First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 29 scholarships for local doctors in Senegal in many critical and underserved specialties. Out of 29 scholarships:

  • 8 Scholarships have been provided in the vital field of oncology, so that the patients can receive quality and equitable cancer care in their home country.  
  • 11 Scholarships have been provided for our doctors for hands-on training in Fertility and Embryology, as well as for One-Year Postgraduate and Two-Year Master’s Degrees in Sexual and Reproductive Care. This will significantly contribute to advancement of women’s health and revolutionize the Reproductive and Fertility care in Senegal.  
  • 10 scholarships have been provided for Diabetes Master Course. Upon completion, these doctors will not only be equipped to effectively treat patients with diabetes but will also play a key role in raising awareness about the condition and promoting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in our communities.

“Merck Foundation has always believed in the importance of building healthcare capacity and has been working for it since 2012. We have so far provided 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 underserved medical specialties. We will continue to provide scholarships for doctors from Senegal and beyond,” added Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Merck Foundation in partnership with First Lady of Senegal has launched many community awareness initiatives to address a wide range of social and health issues.

Together with the office of the First Lady of Senegal recently conducted their Online Health Media Training to encourage the journalist to be the voice of the voiceless and create a culture shift around critical social issues like supporting girl education, ending GBV and FGM, women empowerment, and health issues like diabetes and hypertension awareness.

Merck Foundation also announced the 2026 Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Senegal for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Senegal, Merck Foundation is launching their children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, “Mark’s Pressure”, and “Ray of Hope”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. The storybooks will be made available in French Language, and thousands of copies will be distributed to school children.

The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4apVhkg), X (https://apo-opa.co/4tCWIEZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4tBljtK), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3OkpeLp).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4aEDo1n), X (https://apo-opa.co/4amES1m), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4bXFOuh), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3MdD41D).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4ayqJwN

Summarizing Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact:

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:

  • 3700+ Media Representatives from more than 35 countries trained by Merck Foundation to raise awareness about different social and health issues
  • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, film, song and fashion.
  • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
  • 9 Children’s Storybooks in four languages – English, French, Portuguese, and Swahilli
  • 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
  • 1040+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 18 countries, to empower them to complete their studies
  • 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/4apVhkg
X: https://apo-opa.co/4tCWIEZ
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3OkpeLp
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4tBljtK
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4cxE8b3
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4kEs89W
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/466MyT4

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/4apVhkg), X (https://apo-opa.co/4tCWIEZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4tBljtK), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3OkpeLp), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4cxE8b3) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4kEs89W).

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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Call for ceasefire as South Sudan moves towards elections

Source: Government of South Africa

Call for ceasefire as South Sudan moves towards elections

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for a cessation of all violence and hostilities in South Sudan. 

The President delivered the closing remarks at the African Union (AU) Ad-hoc High Level Committee for South Sudan (C5) Plus Summit, held in Ethiopia on Sunday.

The summit was convened on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of States and Government in Addis Ababa.

“I want to welcome that we met at Heads of State level to provide a clear direction on the way forward. We have agreed that the Revitalised Agreement [on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan] remains the paramount legal instrument which all parties must comply and by which progress in South Sudan will be measured. We encourage inclusive dialogue in accordance with the Revitalised Agreement.

“To this end, we should bring an end to all violence, hostilities and to allow all this and all other electoral processes to take place,” President Ramaphosa said.

Recommendations stemming from the summit include:

  • There should be a ceasefire, and all hostilities must be brought to an end;
  • There should be a release of political detainees, and this should also include people like the Vice President Riek Machar who is going through various processes of a legal nature;
  • That there should be meaningful dialogue that is inclusive, that is thorough and leaving no stakeholder behind; 
  • Elections must go on and not be postponed. There should be no more postponements, and the elections must be held on a free and fair basis including all the people who are eligible to participate in those elections (the citizens of South Sudan);
  • There should be coordination of the efforts and work through IGAD Secretariat as well as C5; and 
  • The Chair of the Commission should work together with three IGAD Heads of State (which is composed of sitting presidents) who will work together with the C5 and will have an oversight role to monitor and support the implementation of this process in South Sudan.

“We also agree that the Government of South Sudan needs to agree, identify and implement minimum standards, which should be put in place for people of South Sudan to exercise their democratic right to vote and choose their leaders.

“And that in this process there should be credible and meaningful processes to prepare for the elections as articulated by the Under-Secretary General of the UN,” President Ramaphosa said.

An inclusive and meaningful dialogue amongst all parties must also be conducted with an eye on leading to the “unification of forces and ensure that the political processes of preparing for elections do take place”.

Additionally, as the country moves towards elections in December, funding must be made available to ensure credibility.

“As regional leaders we will do our utmost best to assist South Sudan to transition to a peaceful and stable country. However, it is up to the leaders of South Sudan to act in good faith and demonstrate a willingness to undertake an inclusive process that fosters national cohesion, solidarity and reconciliation. And upholds the rule of law; and ensures a transparent, credible and peaceful electoral process.

“We have heard very clearly from President Salva Kiir that from their own point of view that they are committed to ensure that the roadmap is adhered to and that they would want us to assist them and support them without undue interference.

“That is something we should comply with and support the people of South Sudan without interference. That is what support should mean. Of course they will be open to counsel, to take advice and to be fully supported,” President Ramaphosa said.

Last week, South Africa was elected to serve a two-year term on the African Union’s (AU) Peace and Security Council. 

According to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), South Africa was elected alongside Lesotho to represent Southern Africa on the council.

Read I South Africa elected to AU Peace and Security Council 

– SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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SANParks suspends indemnity form at Table Mountain

Source: Government of South Africa

SANParks suspends indemnity form at Table Mountain

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has suspended the indemnity and verification form requirement at Table Mountain National Park with immediate effect.

“We have listened to the concerns raised by visitors and tourism partners and have acted decisively. Over the next 12 months, SANParks will implement a fully digitised ID and passport verification system at park gates, including high-speed scanning technology to ensure accurate compliance while delivering a seamless visitor experience.”

The indemnity and verification form was introduced to strengthen verification and governance processes.

However, SANParks acknowledged that its implementation led to operational delays and visitor frustration.
During this time, gate operations will continue without the indemnity form requirement. –SAnews.gov.za
 

 

nosihle

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New species discovered at Richtersveld National Park

Source: Government of South Africa

New species discovered at Richtersveld National Park

Scientists have identified several insect species previously unknown to science in the richly biodiverse Richtersveld National Park.

Internationally respected entomologists, Dr Massimo Meregalli (Italy) and Dr Roman Borovec (Czech Republic), recently published new research on flightless weevils collected in remote parts of the park. 

These soil-dwelling insects are notoriously difficult to study, living discreetly beneath shrubs and emerging mainly at night. Their discovery requires meticulous fieldwork in challenging terrain — conditions the Richtersveld is well known for.

“With the support and guidance of Richtersveld National Park Nursery Curator Pieter van Wyk, the researchers explored the remote Armmanshoek Valley, an area not previously surveyed for soil insects. 

“Their efforts resulted in the identification of multiple new species, further confirming the Richtersveld as a hotspot of endemism and scientific importance,” the South African National Parks (SANParks) said.

In recognition of the park’s conservation significance and SANParks’ role in enabling biodiversity research, the scientists named a newly described genus and species Richtersveldiella sanparkensis — the first known insect species formally named after SANParks and Richtersveld National Park.

The researchers have also previously honoured the region’s cultural heritage by naming other genera Khoisan and Nama, acknowledging the deep historical connection between local communities and this unique landscape.

“These discoveries highlight the importance of continued scientific exploration within protected areas and reinforce SANParks’ commitment to conserving not only iconic wildlife and landscapes, but also the often-overlooked species that form the foundation of healthy ecosystems.

“The naming of Richtersveldiella sanparkensis stands as a lasting scientific tribute to the Richtersveld and SANParks’ ongoing dedication to biodiversity conservation,” SANParks said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Government creating opportunities for young people

Source: Government of South Africa

Government creating opportunities for young people

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating work opportunities for young people, while improving the quality of education. 

The President on Monday said targeted interventions in schools are helping to prepare learners for a rapidly changing world. 

In his weekly newsletter today, following the recent State of the Nation Address, the President reflected on progress made in expanding access to education over the past three decades, including steady improvements in matric results. However, he acknowledged that significant challenges remain.

“Access to resources and quality teaching is uneven. Schools in townships and rural areas often struggle with overcrowding and educators have limited access to professional development and support,” the President said.

A key intervention to address these gaps is the Basic Education Employment Initiative (BEEI), which was founded in 2020 as part of the Presidential Employment Stimulus. The initiative deploys young people to schools as education and general school assistants. 

To date, the programme has created more than 1.3 million work opportunities, making it the largest youth employment programme in the country’s history. It provides young people with critical work experience, while reinforcing teaching and learning in schools that need support the most.

General school assistants are required to have at least a Grade 9 qualification, while education assistants must have a matric certificate. In the most recent phase of the programme, 32% of education assistants had some form of tertiary qualification and 14% held a teaching qualification. Participants receive both compulsory and optional training in areas such as school safety, online safety, financial literacy, word processing, AI fluency and coding.

The President said the initiative advances the objectives of the Public Employment Stimulus by delivering large-scale public employment, while generating social value.

“The work of the education assistants allows teachers to spend more time on teaching and on lesson preparation, thereby contributing directly to improved educational outcomes,” he said.

Education assistants have been placed in 19 000 no-fee primary schools, where they support numeracy and serve as Reading Champions to improve literacy and bilingual reading. According to the President, improvements in foundational literacy skills are already being observed in many schools. 

In addition to curriculum support, assistants contribute to digital learning, provide care and support to at-risk learners, and serve as laboratory and workshop assistants.

The programme is also having a transformative impact on the young people involved, equipping them with practical skills and work experience that enhance their employability and career prospects. 

As part of broader efforts to expand access to Early Childhood Development (ECD), government is rolling out the Bana Pele mass registration of ECD facilities and increasing subsidies for ECD learners. Through the Social Employment Fund, support has been extended to the ECD sector.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, working with an implementing partner, is assisting more than 1 000 previously disadvantaged and underfunded ECD centres to meet subsidy requirements. These centres are receiving nutritional support, as well as toys, books and learning materials. The Social Employment Fund now reaches over 50 000 children in ECD centres nationwide.

The President emphasised that fulfilling the constitutional imperative of providing quality education requires collaboration across society.

“These initiatives illustrate clearly the benefits of multisectoral cooperation between government, the private sector and civil society. 
 
“It is our aspiration that this successful programme should continue to grow as we strive to create more work opportunities for young South Africans and at the same time, deliver quality education for all,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za 

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