Category: Africa

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Mon sein en 180 secondes (MS180s) : La science et l’engagement citoyen au service de la lutte contre le cancer du sein

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le mercredi 11 février 2026, l’Amphithéâtre Idriss Déby Itno de l’Université d’Abomey-Calavi a servi de cadre au lancement officiel du concours « Mon sein en 180 secondes » (MS180s). Initiée par le Ministère de l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique, cette activité s’inscrit dans une dynamique nationale de sensibilisation et de mobilisation contre le cancer du sein, à l’occasion de la Journée internationale des femmes et des filles de science.

La cérémonie s’est déroulée sous l’autorité de la représentante de la Ministre de l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique en la qualité de Madame Armelle AHLINVI GANYE, Conseillère Technique au Suivi des Réformes Institutionnelles, des Infrastructures et Équipements Universitaires (CT/SRIIEU) au sein du Cabinet de la Ministre porteuse du message officiel.

Au-delà de son caractère institutionnel, la journée s’est voulue inclusive et pédagogique. À travers des prestations artistiques (Théâtre et Slam), des témoignages poignants et une table-ronde réunissant des spécialistes, les échanges ont porté sur la prévention, le dépistage précoce, l’amélioration de l’accès aux soins et la nécessité de briser les tabous entourant le cancer du sein. Les discussions ont également mis en lumière les défis liés au diagnostic tardif et à la prise en charge, notamment dans un contexte marqué par la montée des maladies non transmissibles.

Inspiré du concept « Ma thèse en 180 secondes », le concours MS180s invite les participants à délivrer, en trois minutes chrono, un message de sensibilisation clair, accessible et scientifiquement fondé. Il ambitionne de stimuler la créativité, de valoriser la recherche et d’encourager l’engagement citoyen de la jeunesse universitaire.

À travers cette initiative, le Gouvernement du Bénin réaffirme sa volonté de placer la science, l’innovation et la recherche au cœur des politiques publiques de santé. MS180s se veut ainsi un espace d’expression, de mobilisation collective et d’espoir, pour faire reculer le cancer du sein et promouvoir un développement humain durable.

La cérémonie a connu la participation de plusieurs personnalités de premier plan, traduisant l’importance accordée à cette initiative. Madame Sibille ASSAVEDO, Directrice Adjointe de Cabinet au Ministère de la Santé, représentait le Ministre de la Santé. Monsieur Guillaume DA a pris part aux travaux en qualité de représentant de Madame l’Ambassadrice de France au Bénin. Madame GAMBARI IMOROU ADEGOUTE Sakinatou, Secrétaire Générale Adjointe du Ministère des Affaires Sociales et de la Microfinance, représentait la Ministre empêchée. Madame ZANDJANAKOU TACHIN Martine, Vice-Présidente de l’Association des Femmes Engagées pour la Formation, la Recherche et la Santé (AFEFRS), a également honoré l’évènement de sa présence.

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

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Guests, MPs put their best foot forward 

Source: Government of South Africa

Guests, MPs put their best foot forward 

Guests and Members of Parliament have used the 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA) to tell a story far deeper than fabric and thread and instead used the occasion to tell a story of growth and ambition.

“I believe that I must look nice like this, but most importantly, our designers get an opportunity not only to showcase their work, but to create jobs,” said Small Business Development Minister Stella Ndabeni as she stepped onto the State of the Nation Address (SONA) red carpet with confidence.

Using the glamour of the evening as a platform, the Minister championed local entrepreneurs and designers, reminding onlookers that every stitch can stimulate the economy.

Her ensemble was crafted by a local designer. Subtle branding details and distinctive design elements quietly reinforced her call to action.

“South Africans should stop overlooking homegrown talent. Local designers are not out of reach. They may not carry global luxury logos, but they carry something far more valuable, the ability to grow the economy and create employment,” Ndabeni said.

The red carpet became a runway of advocacy. Contemporary African prints merged tradition with modern sophistication. Each carefully styled look was a nod to a thriving creative industry that fuels small businesses across the country, from seamstresses and textile producers to stylists and makeup artists.

Ndabeni also reflected on the substance behind the red carpet. Inside the chamber of the Cape Town City Hall, President Cyril Ramaphosa would account for commitments made in the previous year and outline plans for the months ahead.

Small businesses, she noted, are eager to hear how economic redistribution efforts are progressing and what infrastructure developments will enable entrepreneurs to trade more efficiently, wherever they are.

But before the speeches and policy outlines, there was the glow of the carpet — and the unmistakable aura of empowerment.

Final touches mattered. The Minister’s designer “Boss Lady” energy defined the night’s bold, assured, and unapologetic looks. Hair styled to perfection by John crowned many of the evening’s standout looks sculpting confidence into every silhouette that passed before the cameras. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK

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Vantage Capital annonce sa sortie de Seaton Estates

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Vantage Capital (www.VantageCapital.co.za), le plus grand gestionnaire de fonds de dette mezzanine en Afrique, a annoncé sa sortie totale de Seaton Estates (« Seaton »), un complexe résidentiel côtier situé sur la côte nord du KwaZulu-Natal, en Afrique du Sud. Le promoteur de Seaton est Collins Residential, la branche résidentielle d’un groupe diversifié opérant dans les secteurs de l’immobilier, de l’hôtellerie et de l’agriculture, en Afrique du Sud et à l’international.

Le complexe Seaton est situé sur un site de premier choix bénéficiant d’un accès direct à près d’un kilomètre de front de mer. Il comprend 1 150 opportunités immobilières, dont 600 terrains résidentiels individuels et 22 développements urbains planifiés, offrant 550 unités supplémentaires en copropriété. Conçu comme un domaine côtier éco-responsable, Seaton se distingue par ses prairies naturelles, ses vues sur l’océan et ses forêts indigènes réhabilitées. Parmi les infrastructures figurent un country club proposant des activités sportives variées, un centre équestre avec carrières et écuries, un accès direct à la plage, ainsi que 26 kilomètres de sentiers de marche, de course et d’équitation traversant des forêts naturelles et des prairies restaurées. Les phases ultérieures du développement intégreront des pôles mixtes comprenant des espaces de commerce, d’éducation et de bureaux. Le complexe est par ailleurs situé à proximité des stations balnéaires populaires de Salt Rock et Ballito.

Vantage a investi dans Seaton en janvier 2022, en octroyant un financement mezzanine de 360 millions de rands destiné aux premières phases d’aménagement du site, incluant les équipements communs et les infrastructures primaires de viabilisation (principalement pour les unités résidentielles individuelles). Après une période d’investissement de 4 ans, la sortie de Vantage a été financée au moyen des produits des ventes de Seaton et d’un refinancement en dette senior par FedGroup.

Werksmans a agi en tant que conseil juridique de Vantage.

Roshal Ramdenee, Partner chez Vantage Capital, a déclaré : « Cet investissement démontre comment le financement mezzanine structuré peut faciliter le développement d’infrastructures de grande envergure dans des projets résidentiels complexes. Notre financement a permis la livraison, dans les délais, des infrastructures primaires essentielles, ce qui a en retour soutenu une forte dynamique commerciale et de création de valeur à travers le complexe immobilier. Nous sommes ravis d’avoir collaboré avec Collins Residential sur un développement côtier de premier plan et d’avoir abouti à un résultat qui reflète à la fois la solidité de l’actif sous-jacent et une exécution rigoureuse tout au long de la période d’investissement. »

Luc Albinski, Executive Chairman de Vantage Capital, a ajouté : « Seaton Estates a été le premier investissement de notre Fonds IV et a donné le ton de ce que nous souhaitons accomplir. Nous avons noué un partenariat avec un groupe remarquablement entrepreneurial basé au KwaZulu-Natal et reconnu pour la réalisation de projets d’envergure et complexes. Malgré diverses perturbations liées aux émeutes dans la région, à des événements météorologiques extrêmes et à des retards d’autorisations inévitables, notre partenariat est resté résilient. Collaborer avec une équipe aussi professionnelle et engagée a été un véritable plaisir. »

Jon De Bufanos, Directeur Financier de Collins Residential, a conclu : « Le financement mezzanine de Vantage Capital a joué un rôle important dans la livraison d’infrastructures clés au cours des premières phases du développement de Seaton Estates. La structure de leur financement nous a apporté de la flexibilité pendant une période difficile, tout en permettant au projet de continuer à progresser de façon maitrisée et rigoureuse. Nous avons apprécié l’approche pragmatique et collaborative de Vantage tout au long de la période d’investissement, ainsi que leur contribution au développement de Seaton. »

Distribué par APO Group pour Vantage Capital Group.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez contacter :
Luc Albinski
Executive Chairman – Vantage Capital
luc@vantagecapital.co.za
+ 27 (0) 83 390 7703

Roshal Ramdenee
Partner – Vantage Capital
roshal@vantagemezzanine.com

Abigail Brews
Senior Associate – Vantage Capital
abigail@vantagecapital.co.za

À propos de Vantage Capital :
Fondé en 2001, Vantage Capital Group est le plus grand gestionnaire indépendant de fonds de dette mezzanine sur le continent africain. Le groupe a levé plus de 1,6 milliard de dollars à travers sept fonds distincts de dette mezzanine et de dette senior dédiée aux énergies renouvelables, ainsi qu’un fonds technologique, et a réalisé à ce jour 66 investissements sur le continent africain.

Vantage cible des opportunités de financement mezzanine de 10 à 50 millions de dollars dans une douzaine de marchés africains clés. La mezzanine est un instrument financier hybride qui se positionne entre la dette senior, la tranche la moins risquée de la structure du capital, et les fonds propres, la tranche la plus risquée. Cet instrument permet d’offrir aux entreprises africaines une solution de financement à long terme adaptée à leurs besoins, à des conditions moins dilutives pour les actionnaires que les capitaux propres et plus flexibles que la dette senior.

Vantage a récemment lancé une plateforme d’investissement dédiée à l’éducation, ciblant les marchés polonais et tchèque.

Site internet : www.VantageCapital.co.za

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Puma Energy et Hass Petroleum Group annoncent un partenariat stratégique de distribution de lubrifiants en République démocratique du Congo

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Puma Energy, entreprise internationale de premier plan dans le secteur de l’énergie en aval, et Hass Petroleum Group (https://HassPetroleum.com), acteur majeur de la commercialisation pétrolière en Afrique, annoncent la signature d’un partenariat stratégique de distribution de lubrifiants en République démocratique du Congo (RDC). L’accord a été officialisé en marge de la conférence Investing in African Mining Indaba tenue au Cap, en Afrique du Sud.

Ce partenariat marque l’introduction officielle des lubrifiants de marque Puma Energy sur le marché congolais. Dans le cadre de cet accord, Hass Petroleum Group assurera la distribution et la commercialisation des lubrifiants haute performance de Puma Energy à travers la RDC, avec un focus particulier sur les secteurs clés tels que l’exploitation minière, les infrastructures et les activités industrielles, piliers de l’économie nationale.

Ben Ouattara, Directeur Afrique de Puma Energy, a déclaré :
« La République démocratique du Congo représente un marché stratégique à fort potentiel pour notre activité de lubrifiants. Ce partenariat avec Hass Petroleum nous permet d’apporter des solutions fiables et de haute qualité aux opérateurs miniers et industriels du pays, tout en renforçant notre présence en Afrique centrale grâce à un modèle de distribution efficace et adapté aux réalités locales. »

Solomon Osundwa, Directeur Général Régional de Hass Petroleum Group, a ajouté :
« Nous sommes fiers de collaborer avec Puma Energy pour introduire des lubrifiants premium sur le marché congolais. Notre connaissance approfondie de la RDC, combinée à la qualité reconnue des produits Puma Energy, nous permettra de répondre efficacement aux besoins des entreprises opérant dans les secteurs minier et industriel. Ce partenariat s’inscrit pleinement dans notre stratégie d’expansion régionale en Afrique centrale. »

Distribué par APO Group pour Hass Group.

À propos de Puma Energy :
Puma Energy est une entreprise mondiale spécialisée dans l’énergie en aval, opérant dans plus de 35 pays, principalement en Afrique subsaharienne et en Amérique centrale. Son portefeuille d’activités comprend les carburants, l’aviation, les lubrifiants, le gaz de pétrole liquéfié (GPL) et le bitume. Puma Energy s’engage à soutenir le développement économique et industriel des pays dans lesquels elle opère, en fournissant des solutions énergétiques fiables et durables.

Pour plus d’informations : www.PumaEnergy.com

À propos de Hass Petroleum Group :
Hass Petroleum Group est une société régionale de commercialisation pétrolière disposant d’une forte implantation en Afrique. Depuis sa création en 1997, le groupe a développé des capacités solides dans l’approvisionnement, le transport, le stockage, la distribution et la commercialisation de produits pétroliers, notamment le diesel, l’essence, le kérosène, le carburéacteur, le gaz de pétrole liquéfié (GPL) et les lubrifiants pour les secteurs industriel et automobile. Grâce à son expertise opérationnelle et à l’utilisation de technologies de pointe, Hass Petroleum Group se positionne comme un partenaire de confiance sur les marchés africains.

Pour plus d’informations : https://HassPetroleum.com

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Puma Energy and Hass Petroleum Group announce lubricant distribution partnership

Source: APO

Puma Energy, a leading downstream energy company, and Hass Group (https://HassPetroleum.com), a leading oil marketing company in Africa, today announced a lubricant distribution partnership covering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The agreement was signed at the Investing in African Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town.

The agreement marks the introduction of the Puma Energy lubricants brand into the DRC for the first time. Under the agreement, Hass Group will distribute and market Puma Energy’s high-performance lubricants, supporting key sectors including mining and industrial operations in one of Africa’s most strategic growth markets.

Ben Ouattara, Head of Africa, Puma Energy, commented: “This collaboration represents an important milestone in the expansion of our lubricants business across Africa, expanding distribution into 11 markets. By leveraging an export model and partnering with a strong regional player like Hass Petroleum, we are able to efficiently extend the Puma Energy brand and our high-quality products into new growth markets such as the DRC.”

Solomon Osundwa, Regional Managing Director, Hass Group, added: “We are pleased to partner with Puma to deliver premium lubricants to customers in the DRC. Our strong experience and knowledge of the region, combined with Puma’s product quality, makes this one of our most significant partnerships this year. As part of our regional growth strategy, we are also looking to enter Mozambique and Angola.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Hass Group.

About Puma Energy:
Puma Energy is a leading global downstream energy business, safely providing energy in more than 35 countries, primarily across Central America and Sub-Saharan Africa. Our downstream business segments include fuels, aviation, lubricants, LPG and bitumen. Energising communities is at the heart of our mission, as we to help drive growth and prosperity by sustainably meeting our customers’ needs in high-potential countries around the world.

For further information visit: www.PumaEnergy.com

About Hass Petroleum Group:
Hass Petroleum is a regional oil marketing company with a significant presence in Africa. Incorporated in 1997, the company has invested heavily in sourcing, transportation, storage, distribution, and marketing of diesel fuel, automotive gasoline, kerosene, jet fuel, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and lubricants for industrial and automotive systems. This, complemented by our use of cutting-edge technology, positions us as an indigenous oil market leader in Africa.

For more information, visit: https://HassPetroleum.com

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The National Business Initiative (NBI) Urges SONA to Frame Water, Energy and Climate Crises as National Economic Priorities

Source: APO


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Ahead of the State of the Nation Address and the upcoming Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES), the National Business Initiative (NBI) has issued a compelling call for a decisive shift in how South Africa addresses its most pressing challenges. NBI CEO Shameela Soobramoney asserts that the nation’s parallel crises in water security, energy reliability and climate resilience constitute an interconnected “triple threat” to economic stability, urging for an immediate transition from planning to execution through a structured national “delivery compact.”

Soobramoney argues that the country must dismantle the perceived trade-off between environment and economy. “Environmental sustainability and economic progress are not mutually exclusive; they are interdependent,” she states. “The persistent narrative that green priorities hinder growth is an unnecessary diversion. Our immediate task is to create policy and strategic coherence which allows for the certainty needed to turn existing plans into bankable projects and attract investment. We need to entrench the understanding around the risks to economy and society and consider them as systemically integrated. The upcoming Africa’s Green Economy Summit is a key moment to signal our readiness to lead, not just participate.”

Water, energy and climate: The triple threat to economic foundations

The NBI positions the protection of nature, climate adaptation and mitigation as central elements of the national economic strategy. Framing these risks as merely environmental issues has pushed them to the margins of planning. “We are facing a systemic economic risk,” Soobramoney explains. “Water scarcity paralyses supply chains. Energy instability devastates productivity. Climate disasters create massive fiscal shocks. Together, they form a triple threat that increases costs, stifles growth and entrenches inequality, directly undermining our economic foundation and social contract.”

A call for a practical national “delivery compact”

The solution proposed is a focused, accountable partnership model. “We have enough forums for discussion; what we need now is a national delivery compact,” Soobramoney asserts. This compact would target specific, measurable outcomes, such as achieving defined water security and energy reliability benchmarks. We have already seen some examples of how this can yield results in actions such as the business-government partnership which supported Operation Vulindlela.These should be built on three pillars: transparent, shared data and shared understanding of the challenge; clear lines of accountability; and genuine co-implementation between public and private sectors. “SONA must signal this critical shift from siloed plans to coordinated delivery. This is the single most powerful action to enhance confidence, both domestically and for the international investors gathering at AGES this month.”

A credible transition: Balancing energy security and decarbonisation

The NBI emphasises that South Africa’s transition must be credible, pragmatic and economically grounded. The rapid expansion of renewable energy is essential, and the same time the country mustensure energy reliability during the transition, including the continued role of existing generation capacity in the near term. “The transition is not about switching off the current system overnight. It is about building the new system fast enough while stabilising the one we have.”

A decisive transition pathway must acknowledge the realities of the current energy system. In the near term, responsibly managing existing generation capacity – including fossil-fuel assets – is essential to protect economic stability, while reforms accelerate the shift to a cleaner, more competitive, affordable and future-fit electricity market based on clear business cases and transparent cost understanding.

Tangible signals to unlock green investment and competitiveness

To secure South Africa’s position in the future green economy, Soobramoney identifies non-negotiable actions. These include finalising the creation of an independent national transmission company and competitive electricity market, announcing clear renewable energy generation targets and actively leveraging the country’s mineral and industrial base to build local manufacturing capacity for electric vehicles and components. “We have the strategic assets. What we require is the policy certainty, targeted incentives, and execution speed to transform them into jobs and decent earning opportunities, investment and export competitiveness. Clarity from SONA will directly shape the conversations and investment decisions at the Green Economy Summit.”

Effective service delivery is the cornerstone of justice and stability

There is a link between effective governance and national well-being. ” Failure to deliver basic services is an injustice that destroys trust and accelerates economic decline,” says Soobramoney. “Building a resilient future is not a political choice; it is an operational imperative. Our collective focus must be on building enduring partnerships and state capability to deliver tangible results for all citizens.We are at a defining moment as a country and as a globe. Setting a solid foundation for growth and the realisation of the enormous potential and our natural assets positions us to be able to respond to and in many cases, lead, in sustainable growth and development.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

Additional Links:
https://apo-opa.co/4twNutT
https://apo-opa.co/4665EbT

About Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES):
Africa’s Green Economy Summit (AGES) is a premier pan-African platform dedicated to accelerating Africa’s transition to a sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient economy. Hosted by VUKA Group, AGES brings together policymakers, investors, project developers, innovators, and business leaders to unlock green finance, scale bankable projects, and drive actionable solutions across energy, mobility, infrastructure, agriculture, water, waste, and the blue economy. Through high-level content, deal-making opportunities, and strategic networking, AGES turns ambition into action for Africa’s green future.

About the National Business Initiative (NBI):
For 30 years, the National Business Initiative (NBI) has brought together leading South African and multinational companies to advance sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Working at the intersection of business, government and society, the NBI translates policy into implementation through strategic partnerships, thought leadership and catalytic projects that tackle systemic national challenges.

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Parliamentary precinct abuzz ahead of SONA

Source: Government of South Africa

Parliamentary precinct abuzz ahead of SONA

With only a few hours remaining before President Cyril Ramaphosa steps onto the red carpet at the National Assembly, the streets surrounding Parliament are alive with anticipation, colour and ceremony.

Barricades line the historic precinct; security officials stand at attention, and camera crews from across the globe jostle for position.

Members of Parliament are expected to begin filing into the House from 4pm – their arrival adding to the hum of expectation that has settled over Cape Town.

At 7pm, President Ramaphosa will deliver the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to a joint sitting of Parliament, bringing together the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces under one roof in one of the country’s most significant democratic rituals.

Across South Africa, millions are expected to tune in as the address is broadcast live on SABC radio and television stations. Community halls, public squares, and organised live viewing sites are preparing to host citizens eager to hear the President outline government’s priorities for the year ahead.

Outside Parliament, the ceremonial red carpet has been rolled out, ready to welcome dignitaries in a display of tradition and national pride.

Parliamentary spokesperson Moloto Mothapo described the occasion as far more than a joint sitting of lawmakers.

“SONA is one of the rare moments where the three arms of the State converge under one roof,” Mothapo told the media on Thursday, during a detailed briefing on the evening’s proceedings.

Members of the Judiciary, both at national and provincial levels, will be present. Representatives of the diplomatic corps, Speakers and Premiers of provincial legislatures, former Presiding Officers of Parliament, and an array of distinguished guests from various professions and sectors of society, are also expected to attend.

As tradition dictates, the bells will begin ringing at exactly 5:45pm, signalling to Members of Parliament (MPs) that they must take their seats as the formal programme prepares to unfold.

The ceremony will begin with full state honours, the national salute, music by a military band, a South African Air Force flypast overhead, and a 21-gun salute. Only then will the President enter the National Assembly chamber to deliver his address.

Inside the House, 490 MPs from both Houses of Parliament will be seated. A further 263 guests from a wide cross-section of society will fill the public gallery, while ordinary members of the public will be accommodated in a specially erected marquee on the parliamentary grounds.

Approximately 1 500 journalists from local and international news houses were accredited to cover the event, underscoring the global attention that the State of the Nation Address commands. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

GabiK

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Water in the dams, but South Africa’s taps are dry: essential reads on a history of bad management

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Caroline Southey, Founding Editor, Africa, The Conversation

It’s become a common refrain in South Africa: there’s no drought, dams and reservoirs are full, but the taps are dry.

The ongoing crisis has been decades in the making. South Africa is a water-scarce country, yet it has failed to take even basic measures to preserve water supplies. These include:

The chronic crisis is underscored by the fact that the challenges – and what needs to be done about them – have been known for some time, as these articles from our archives show.

Johannesburg’s water crisis is getting worse – expert explains why the taps keep running dry in South Africa’s biggest city

Cape Town’s sewage treatment isn’t coping: scientists are worried about what the city is telling the public

The right to water is out of reach for many South Africans: case study offers solutions

South Africans flush toilets with drinkable water: study in Cape Town looked at using seawater instead

South Africa’s sewage crisis: official reports don’t include millions of litres of leaking wastewater

Is my water safe to drink? Expert advice for residents of South African cities

How to make sure water is safe to drink: four practical tips

– Water in the dams, but South Africa’s taps are dry: essential reads on a history of bad management
– https://theconversation.com/water-in-the-dams-but-south-africas-taps-are-dry-essential-reads-on-a-history-of-bad-management-275832

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Platinum for purpose: Emirates Airline Foundation and Emirates Auction raise AED 8.8 million (USD 2.4 million), further driving humanitarian impact for children in South Africa and worldwide

Source: APO

  • 100% of proceeds from the auction of seven rare Skywards memberships will be directed to new initiatives, as well as expanding the Foundation’s grassroots network
  • Auction partnership is set to become an annual fixture, offering a recurring opportunity to support the Foundation 

In a successful first, the Emirates Airline Foundation and Emirates Auction have raised AED 8.8 million (USD 2.4 million) to advance humanitarian programmes for underprivileged children worldwide, including ongoing initiatives in South Africa focused on early childhood education and HIV/AIDS support. 

In South Africa, the Foundation collaborates with:

  • Singakwenza Education and Health, supporting 1,000 children in early childhood education
  • Fikelela Children’s Centre, assisting 40 children affected by HIV/AIDS

The auction ran from 17 December 2025 to 17 January 2026 and attracted over 900 bids from participants across 131 countries. Seven rare Emirates Skywards membership numbers with Platinum tier status benefits were offered to bidders globally, with the highest single bid reaching AED 1.6 million over the one-month bidding period. Two bidders secured 20-year Platinum memberships, while five others won 15-year memberships. Top bidders hailed from the UAE, UK, India, United States, Pakistan, France, Germany, Egypt and Thailand, among other countries. 

Funds raised will enable the Foundation to launch new projects, while expanding support for the children and communities already benefiting from its existing programmes in collaboration with 14 NGOs across nine countries, including three on the African continent: South Africa, Kenya, and Zimbabwe. 

Following the success of the initiative, the Emirates Airline Foundation and Emirates Auction will continue to hold annual auction events, creating an ongoing opportunity for supporters worldwide to contribute to the Foundation’s mission. 

Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline and Chairman of the Emirates Airline Foundation said: “When we brought this initiative to life in December, we were guided by a simple objective to look at new, innovative ways to grow the Foundation’s humanitarian work and impact. What made this initiative so compelling wasn’t just the exclusivity of the membership numbers, but the value and prestige that comes with Platinum status. Bidders recognised that, and they showed up. The response was extraordinary, and a testament to the generosity of our global community of Skywards members and bidders. 

The proceeds will allow us to do more, partner with more organisations, reach new communities, and strengthen the programmes already changing the lives of hundreds of children across India, the Philippines, Brazil, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and beyond. For the children at the heart of our work, this generosity will make a real and lasting difference. 

We are proud to continue our partnership with Emirates Auction as an annual initiative, giving supporters around the world a meaningful way to contribute while receiving something of real value in return, proving that loyalty and generosity can work hand in hand. 

To everyone who participated: thank you. Your contribution will reach further than you know.” 

Meanwhile, Abdullah Matar Al Mannai, Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates Auction, said: “We are pleased with the outstanding results achieved by this auction, which demonstrate what can be accomplished when purpose, innovation, and collaboration come together. At Emirates Auction, supporting charitable and humanitarian initiatives has always been a core part of our mission, particularly when it comes to national institutions with a global humanitarian outlook such as the Emirates Airline Foundation.” 

Al Mannai added: “We are proud to have played a role in the success of this initiative and to have dedicated our expertise, platforms, and teams to ensuring the auction delivered the expected impact. The strong partnership between Emirates Airline and Emirates Auction demonstrates a shared commitment to giving back and to translating value into real, lasting change for communities in need. We look forward to building on this success and continuing our collaboration in the years ahead, as we work together to achieve greater impact and advance humanitarian causes that extend far beyond our borders.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

About the Emirates Airline Foundation:
Operating under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Emirates Airline Foundation is Emirates’ official charity arm, providing vulnerable children with housing, healthcare, nutrition, education, and vocational support. Funded by Emirates customers and employees, the Foundation has completed 50+ projects, with nearly all donations going directly to programmes. 

Current Projects (14 NGOs across 9 countries): 

  • South Africa: Singakwenza Education and Health (1,000 children in early childhood education); Fikelela Children’s Centre (40 children affected by HIV/AIDS) 
  • Kenya: Little Prince Nursery and Primary School (Kibera slums); Alfajiri Street Kids (200+ children in art therapy programs); Starehe Boys’ Centre (four-year scholarships for academically talented boys) 
  • Zimbabwe: St. Marcellin’s Children’s Village (56 orphaned children, including those with disabilities and HIV) 
  • India: Emirates-CHES Home (37 children living with HIV/AIDS); IIMPACT Girls Education Project (5,000 girls across 11 states) 
  • Sri Lanka: Prithipura Communities (250 individuals with disabilities receiving care, education, and vocational training) 
  • Philippines: Virlanie Foundation (housing and protection for abused, exploited, and orphaned children) 
  • Brazil: Saint Rita de Cassia Orphanage (orphaned girls aged 4-12); Externato São Francisco de Assis (day school for underprivileged children) 
  • UAE: SAFE Centre for Autism (innovative curriculum for students aged 4-18) 
  • Bangladesh: Emirates Friendship Hospital (medical care to over 650,000 people in isolated areas) 

About Emirates Auction:
Emirates Auction LLC is the UAE’s leading auction house and a pioneer in the region’s asset auction industry. Established in 2004, the company has built a reputation for innovation, transparency, and operational excellence across a wide range of auction categories, including vehicles, real estate, distinctive number plates, exclusive watches, medical equipment, industrial assets, and charitable auctions. 

Through its advanced digital platforms and extensive nationwide presence, Emirates Auction enables thousands of bidders to participate in real time from anywhere in the world. The company holds multiple Guinness World Records for record-breaking sales of high-value assets, real estate, and marine vessels, reinforcing its position as a global leader in premium and high-profile auctions. 

Emirates Auction partners with leading government institutions, private sector organizations, and charitable foundations to advance initiatives that promote sustainability, innovation, and social development across the UAE. 

With a shared commitment to excellence and social responsibility, Emirates Auction continues to collaborate with national institutions such as the Emirates Airline Foundation to create meaningful opportunities that benefit the wider community and reflect the UAE’s enduring spirit of leadership and generosity. 

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Platinum for purpose: Emirates Airline Foundation and Emirates Auction raise AED 8.8 million (USD 2.4 million), further driving humanitarian impact for children in Kenya and worldwide

Source: APO

  • 100% of proceeds from the auction of seven rare Skywards memberships will be directed to new initiatives, as well as expanding the Foundation’s grassroots network 
  • Auction partnership is set to become an annual fixture, offering a recurring opportunity to support the Foundation 

In a successful first, the Emirates Airline Foundation and Emirates Auction have raised AED 8.8 million (USD 2.4 million) to advance humanitarian programmes for underprivileged children worldwide, including ongoing initiatives in Kenya supporting children in education, art therapy, and scholarship programmes. 

In Kenya, the Foundation works with three NGOs:

  • Little Prince Nursery and Primary School in the Kibera slum
  • Alfajiri Street Kids, supporting more than 200 children through art therapy programmes
  • Starehe Boys’ Centre, providing four-year scholarships for academically talented boys

The auction ran from 17 December 2025 to 17 January 2026 and attracted over 900 bids from participants across 131 countries. Seven rare Emirates Skywards membership numbers with Platinum tier status benefits were offered to bidders globally, with the highest single bid reaching AED 1.6 million over the one-month bidding period. Two bidders secured 20-year Platinum memberships, while five others won 15-year memberships. Top bidders hailed from the UAE, UK, India, United States, Pakistan, France, Germany, Egypt and Thailand, among other countries. 

Funds raised will enable the Foundation to launch new projects, while expanding support for the children and communities already benefiting from its existing programmes in collaboration with 14 NGOs across nine countries, including three on the African continent: Kenya, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. 

Following the success of the initiative, the Emirates Airline Foundation and Emirates Auction will continue to hold annual auction events, creating an ongoing opportunity for supporters worldwide to contribute to the Foundation’s mission. 

Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline and Chairman of the Emirates Airline Foundation said: “When we brought this initiative to life in December, we were guided by a simple objective to look at new, innovative ways to grow the Foundation’s humanitarian work and impact. What made this initiative so compelling wasn’t just the exclusivity of the membership numbers, but the value and prestige that comes with Platinum status. Bidders recognised that, and they showed up. The response was extraordinary, and a testament to the generosity of our global community of Skywards members and bidders. 

The proceeds will allow us to do more, partner with more organisations, reach new communities, and strengthen the programmes already changing the lives of hundreds of children across India, the Philippines, Brazil, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and beyond. For the children at the heart of our work, this generosity will make a real and lasting difference. 

We are proud to continue our partnership with Emirates Auction as an annual initiative, giving supporters around the world a meaningful way to contribute while receiving something of real value in return, proving that loyalty and generosity can work hand in hand. 

To everyone who participated: thank you. Your contribution will reach further than you know.” 

Meanwhile, Abdullah Matar Al Mannai, Chairman and Managing Director of Emirates Auction, said: “We are pleased with the outstanding results achieved by this auction, which demonstrate what can be accomplished when purpose, innovation, and collaboration come together. At Emirates Auction, supporting charitable and humanitarian initiatives has always been a core part of our mission, particularly when it comes to national institutions with a global humanitarian outlook such as the Emirates Airline Foundation.” 

Al Mannai added: “We are proud to have played a role in the success of this initiative and to have dedicated our expertise, platforms, and teams to ensuring the auction delivered the expected impact. The strong partnership between Emirates Airline and Emirates Auction demonstrates a shared commitment to giving back and to translating value into real, lasting change for communities in need. We look forward to building on this success and continuing our collaboration in the years ahead, as we work together to achieve greater impact and advance humanitarian causes that extend far beyond our borders.” 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Emirates Group.

About the Emirates Airline Foundation:
Operating under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Emirates Airline Foundation is Emirates’ official charity arm, providing vulnerable children with housing, healthcare, nutrition, education, and vocational support. Funded by Emirates customers and employees, the Foundation has completed 50+ projects, with nearly all donations going directly to programmes. 

Current Projects (14 NGOs across 9 countries): 

  • Kenya: Little Prince Nursery and Primary School (Kibera slums); Alfajiri Street Kids (200+ children in art therapy programs); Starehe Boys’ Centre (four-year scholarships for academically talented boys) 
  • South Africa: Singakwenza Education and Health (1,000 children in early childhood education); Fikelela Children’s Centre (40 children affected by HIV/AIDS) 
  • Zimbabwe: St. Marcellin’s Children’s Village (56 orphaned children, including those with disabilities and HIV) 
  • India: Emirates-CHES Home (37 children living with HIV/AIDS); IIMPACT Girls Education Project (5,000 girls across 11 states) 
  • Sri Lanka: Prithipura Communities (250 individuals with disabilities receiving care, education, and vocational training) 
  • Philippines: Virlanie Foundation (housing and protection for abused, exploited, and orphaned children) 
  • Brazil: Saint Rita de Cassia Orphanage (orphaned girls aged 4-12); Externato São Francisco de Assis (day school for underprivileged children) 
  • UAE: SAFE Centre for Autism (innovative curriculum for students aged 4-18) 
  • Bangladesh: Emirates Friendship Hospital (medical care to over 650,000 people in isolated areas) 

About Emirates Auction: 
Emirates Auction LLC is the UAE’s leading auction house and a pioneer in the region’s asset auction industry. Established in 2004, the company has built a reputation for innovation, transparency, and operational excellence across a wide range of auction categories, including vehicles, real estate, distinctive number plates, exclusive watches, medical equipment, industrial assets, and charitable auctions. 

Through its advanced digital platforms and extensive nationwide presence, Emirates Auction enables thousands of bidders to participate in real time from anywhere in the world. The company holds multiple Guinness World Records for record-breaking sales of high-value assets, real estate, and marine vessels, reinforcing its position as a global leader in premium and high-profile auctions. 

Emirates Auction partners with leading government institutions, private sector organizations, and charitable foundations to advance initiatives that promote sustainability, innovation, and social development across the UAE. 

With a shared commitment to excellence and social responsibility, Emirates Auction continues to collaborate with national institutions such as the Emirates Airline Foundation to create meaningful opportunities that benefit the wider community and reflect the UAE’s enduring spirit of leadership and generosity. 

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