Category: Africa

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République Démocratique du Congo – Fact-checking et discours de haine : de jeunes journalistes de Kinshasa s’engagent à plus de responsabilité

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

À Kinshasa, du 18 au 19 août, de jeunes journalistes ont pris part à des sessions de formation dans le cadre de l’agenda Jeunesse, Paix et Sécurité (JPS). Organisée par le Secrétariat technique national de la Résolution 2250 (STN-2250) avec l’appui de la MONUSCO, cette rencontre visait à faire prendre conscience aux jeunes journalistes des valeurs et des compétences nécessaires pour assumer pleinement leur rôle.

Pendant la première journée, les réflexions ont porté sur les cinq piliers de la Résolution 2250 (participation, protection, prévention, partenariats et désengagement et réinsertion), la complémentarité entre les agendas JPS et Femmes, Paix et Sécurité (FPS – Résolution 1325), ainsi que l’initiation aux principes du journalisme sensible aux conflits et du devoir éthique de « ne pas nuire ».

La deuxième journée a permis aux participants d’approfondir leur connaissance sur la lutte contre les discours toxiques, les techniques de vérification de l’information et la responsabilité des rédactions en période de crise.

Bannir les discours de haine des médias

L’assainissement du discours médiatique apparaît désormais indissociable de la prévention des conflits armés et de la promotion du progrès social. Au cours de la formation, la prise de conscience s’est faite autour des différentes formes d’expression de la haine, qu’elles soient verbales, écrites ou comportementales et de l’impact dévastateur des fausses informations sur la stabilité nationale ainsi que sur les processus de paix en RDC.

Cette formation doit aboutir à la constitution d’un réseau de points focaux au sein des rédactions, prêts à assurer un suivi durable des enjeux JPS et à maintenir le lien avec le Secrétariat technique national.

Pour les participants, l’analyse du Plan d’action de Rabat – sur l’interdiction de l’appel à la haine nationale, raciale ou religieuse – a fourni une grille de lecture concrète basée sur six critères de seuil (contexte, orateur, intention, contenu, ampleur et probabilité de préjudice) leur permettant de qualifier la gravité des dérapages que l’on peut noter dans certains discours médiatiques.
Ils ont ainsi assimilé qu’un traitement responsable de l’information exige une vigilance accrue: modération rigoureuse, rejet des contenus xénophobes, respect strict de la déontologie et fermeture des antennes aux acteurs cherchant à instrumentaliser la haine.

Pour Joselyne Muteba, journaliste à Ecofin Télévision, les professionnels des médias sont avant tout des éducateurs de masse.

« Si nous diffusons des discours de haine, nous incitons des franges vulnérables ou moins instruites de la population à provoquer des désordres qui perturbent la paix sociale. Notre rôle est d’être suffisamment outillé pour savoir quoi dire et encourager les citoyens à ne pas céder à la manipulation », explique-t-elle.

Qui est votre source ?

Positionnés au cœur de la chaîne d’information, les jeunes professionnels portent une grande responsabilité : alimenter le débat public avec des faits vérifiés ou risquer d’amplifier des rumeurs manipulatoires.

Ce volet technique a doté les apprenants d’une méthodologie pour déconstruire les infox et les demi-vérités conçues pour tromper l’opinion, tout en les armant pour interroger méthodiquement la véracité, le narratif, la langue ciblée, le caractère authentique ou artificiel du contenu, la frontière entre opinion et incitation, ainsi que le préjudice potentiel.

Cette formation doit aboutir à la constitution d’un réseau de points focaux au sein des rédactions, prêts à assurer un suivi durable des enjeux JPS et à maintenir le lien avec le Secrétariat technique national.

En intégrant l’usage d’outils numériques modernes tels que Google Lens ou InVID pour analyser images et vidéos, ces jeunes journalistes se positionnent désormais comme un rempart contre la désinformation notamment sur les réseaux sociaux.

En temps de crise, la responsabilité sociétale de la presse prend une dimension critique : il a été rappelé aux journalistes que la carte de presse ne constitue pas un gilet pare-balles, et la sécurité des équipes comme des sources dépend avant tout de la rigueur du travail fourni.

L’exercice du métier requiert un recoupement systématique des sources, un équilibre des perspectives, mais surtout un discernement éthique permanent permettant au journaliste d’évaluer quand une information doit être tue pour ne pas mettre des vies en danger.

Au sujet de l’engagement au quotidien au sein des rédactions, Joselyne Muteba insiste sur la nécessité d’offrir un espace d’expression constructif à la jeunesse : « Dans nos rédactions, nous devons continuellement soutenir et valoriser les initiatives des jeunes, leur donner la parole sur leurs besoins et créer des espaces de débat pour porter leur contribution au développement du pays. »
Cette formation doit aboutir à la constitution d’un réseau de points focaux au sein des rédactions, prêts à assurer un suivi durable des enjeux JPS et à maintenir le lien avec le Secrétariat technique national.

Cet atelier a rappelé l’importance d’un journalisme responsable et renforcer l’engagement de la jeunesse à œuvrer pour la paix. En étant partenaire, la MONUSCO renouvelle son appui à la sensibilisation aux valeurs au sein de la jeunesse de la RDC et à l’agenda 2250.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

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République démocratique du Congo (RDC) – Ebola : face à une épidémie hors de contrôle, le besoin urgent d’intégrer les communautés

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Ce dimanche 23 août, cela fera 100 jours que l’épidémie d’Ebola a été déclarée en République démocratique du Congo (RDC). La maladie continue de se propager à un rythme extrêmement alarmant : au cours de la semaine écoulée, un décès dû à la maladie d’Ebola a été signalé toutes les 30 minutes environ. En date du 16 août, les autorités nationales avaient recensé plus de 5 000 cas confirmés et plus de 2 300 décès depuis le début de l’épidémie. Pour Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), il est urgent d’adapter la réponse en impliquant les communautés.

Depuis que l’épidémie a été officiellement déclarée, plus de 60 % des décès dus à la maladie en RDC ont eu lieu en dehors – et souvent loin – des centres de traitement d’Ebola. Partout, MSF constate une grande méfiance à l’égard de la réponse mise en place. Cela signifie que de nombreuses personnes meurent chez elles ou au sein de leur communauté sans recevoir de soins et que le virus continue de se propager avant même que les cas ne soient détectés. On observe ainsi que le nombre de cas augmente rapidement au-delà de l’épicentre situé en Ituri, la province du Nord-Kivu enregistrant des taux de mortalité particulièrement élevés. Cette épidémie est devenue la plus importante et la plus meurtrière de l’histoire du pays.

« L’épidémie continue de se propager à un rythme que l’on ne parvient pas à suivre », déclare le Dr Javid Abdelmoneim, président international de MSF. « Les centres de traitement restent essentiels pour sauver des vies, mais il faut bien plus que des lits supplémentaires. Pour répondre à cette épidémie, il faut améliorer le dépistage, sécuriser l’isolement des personnes malades et de leurs contacts, et soutenir les professionnels de santé. Les personnes qui se rendent dans les structures de santé existantes doivent également être protégées contre l’infection. Et enfin, il est essentiel que la réponse soit élaborée avec les communautés et non sans qu’elles y participent. »

Dans des régions confrontées au quotidien à des conflits, à la violence, aux déplacements et à la faim, les communautés ne bénéficient pas d’un soutien suffisant pour endiguer la maladie. Or, MSF a pu constater que l’engagement des responsables communautaires est un facteur clé pour améliorer le taux de prise en charge précoce. En Ituri, dans le camp de déplacés de Rho, près de Drodro, les responsables communautaires travaillent avec MSF pour encourager les personnes présentant des symptômes à se faire dépister, à s’isoler et à se faire soigner rapidement.

Ils promeuvent également des mesures de prévention et de lutte contre l’infection afin de réduire le risque de transmission au sein de la communauté. Dans ce camp surpeuplé, qui accueille près de 50 000 personnes, cette collaboration permet de limiter la propagation du virus Ebola et de réduire la mortalité.

L’épidémie se propage à des régions qui n’ont pas d’expérience d’Ebola

Des responsables communautaires comme Emery Guba Mateso, originaire du camp de déplacés de Rho, partagent leurs expériences afin d’encourager les gens à se faire soigner. Il a perdu son fils, emporté par Ebola, et a lui-même survécu à cette maladie par la suite.

« En tant que personne ayant survécu à la maladie d’Ebola, le message que je souhaite transmettre à ma communauté est le suivant : dès l’apparition des premiers symptômes, il est important de chercher rapidement des soins médicaux, car un accès précoce à un traitement adapté augmente les chances de guérison », conclut Emery Guba Mateso.

« Alors que des cas apparaissent dans de nouvelles régions qui n’ont que peu, voire aucune expérience en matière de prise en charge d’Ebola, il y a un besoin urgent de professionnels de santé formés à la prise en charge de la maladie, non seulement au sein des centres de traitement, mais aussi directement au sein des communautés touchées », ajoute Trish Newport, responsable du programme d’urgence de MSF en Ituri.

À Beni, dans la province du Nord-Kivu, nous soutenons les structures de santé existantes qui proposent également des services de médecine générale, indispensables pour sauver des vies. Cela permet de mettre rapidement en place un traitement systématique des symptômes. L’objectif est que les personnes puissent bénéficier des soins dont elles ont besoin au plus près de chez elles.

MSF intervient actuellement dans les provinces de l’Ituri, du Nord-Kivu, du Sud-Kivu, de la Tshopo et du Haut-Uélé. Dans les zones touchées, les équipes gèrent six centres de traitement Ebola, ainsi que des unités d’isolement, avec plus de 400 lits, soit un tiers de l’ensemble des lits disponibles pour toute la riposte Ebola. Plus de 1 400 membres du personnel MSF sont mobilisés pour soutenir cette réponse. Depuis le début de l’épidémie, nos équipes ont admis plus de 2 000 patients, parmi lesquels plus de 800 ont été confirmés comme atteints de la maladie d’Ebola.

Distribué par APO Group pour Médecins sans frontières (MSF).

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Bénin : Célébration des talents sportifs et culturels – Fin en apothéose des 25ᵉ Championnats nationaux scolaires de l’enseignement primaire

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La commune de Djougou a vibré au rythme de la phase finale de la 25ᵉ édition des Championnats nationaux scolaires de l’enseignement primaire. Lancée le lundi 17 Août 2026 sur le stade omnisports de la cité des Kpétonis, cette grande rencontre sportive et culturelle a connu son épilogue dans une ambiance conviviale, festive et empreinte de solennité, le jeudi 20 août 2026.

Après quatre jours de compétition, d’efforts, de dépassement de soi et de partage, les jeunes athlètes venus de différents départements du Bénin ont livré leurs dernières prestations, sous le regard attentif du Ministre des Enseignements Maternel et Primaire, Armand Kuyema NATTA, du Ministre Conseiller Paulin GBENOU, du représentant du Ministère des Enseignements Secondaire, en charge de la Formation Professionnelle, du représentant du Directeur général de l’Office béninois du Sport Scolaire et Universitaire (OBSSU), du représentant du Préfet, du représentant du Maire de la commune de Djougou, ainsi que de plusieurs responsables et acteurs du secteur éducatif et sportif.

Au coup de sifflet final, place a été faite à la reconnaissance des efforts consentis par l’ensemble des participants. Toutes les équipes engagées dans la compétition ont été distinguées par des médailles, venant ainsi saluer leur participation et leur engagement tout au long de cette phase finale. Les équipes sacrées championnes dans les différentes disciplines ( football , saut en hauteur, endurance…) ont, pour leur part, reçu, en plus des médailles, des trophées, consacrant ainsi leurs performances sportives.

En football masculin, la formation représentant les départements du Zou et des Collines s’est particulièrement illustrée en décrochant le titre de championne face à la formation des départements du Mono – Couffo. Une performance qui témoigne du talent et du potentiel des jeunes apprenants engagés dans cette compétition.

Au-delà des performances sportives, cette 25ᵉ édition a également accordé une place importante à l’expression culturelle. Les différents groupes culturels ayant pris part à la compétition ont eux aussi été honorés au terme de la manifestation.

Cette articulation entre sport et culture traduit la volonté de faire des Championnats nationaux scolaires un véritable espace d’épanouissement des apprenants, où se conjuguent talent, discipline, esprit d’équipe, créativité et promotion des valeurs citoyennes.

En clôturant la compétition, le Ministre Armand Kuyema NATTA a félicité toutes les équipes participantes, les partenaires et les acteurs impliqués dans la réussite de cette édition : « Nous sommes heureux d’accompagner les jeunes pour leur épanouissement et la célébration de leurs talents. Merci à toutes les équipes impliquées dans la réussite de cette édition. Que la fête soit belle et à l’année prochaine ! », a conclu le Ministre des Enseignements Maternel et Primaire.

Cette édition riche en émotions s’achève ainsi sur une note de satisfaction. Elle confirme la place du sport et de la culture dans la construction d’une école béninoise plus épanouissante, plus inclusive et davantage tournée vers l’excellence.

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

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Cabo Verde: Governo compromete-se a adquirir, pelo menos, 22 ambulâncias para distribuir uma para cada município

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

É um compromisso assumido pelo Chefe do Governo, Francisco Carvalho, após a audição de alguns presidentes das câmaras municipais, no âmbito da demonstração prática da vontade do Governo em estreitar relações de parceria e complementaridade com as autarquias e ajudá-las na resolução das situações mais gritantes, de forma imediata.

O Primeiro Ministro começou a auscultar ontem, dia 20, presidentes das câmaras municipais,  no âmbito da execução do orçamento rectificativo, deste ano, e dos preparativos para a formatação do orçamento do próximo ano. Presidentes de seis câmaras municipais foram ouvidos, atentamente, nesta primeira ronda. Todas de Santiago, neste primeiro momento. O Primeiro Ministro esteve acompanhado por um conjunto de ministros que, de acordo com os problemas apontados pelos autarcas, apresentavam soluções para curto, médio e/ou longo prazos, de acordo com a situação.

A orientação do Primeiro Ministro, Francisco Carvalho, foi clara no início da primeira audição. “As necessidades urgentes devem ser atendidas imediatamente”, assegurou o Chefe do Governo que percebeu, posteriormente, que há questões, de interesse local, e outras revestem-se de cariz nacional, como, por exemplo, a necessidade de cada município dispor de um veículo adaptado, o que possibilita um transporte mais adequado de pessoas idosas, particularmente as com mobilidade reduzida.

Neste quesito, o Governo, através do Ministério da Família, está a trabalhar com parceiros com o objectivo de se conseguir 22 viaturas adaptadas, para todos os municípios, à semelhança do que se pretende com as ambulâncias.

Foram apresentados problemas e projectos de complexidade e dimensão bastante diferentes. Desde a necessidade de um jardim de infância, que não exige avultados investimentos, e que pode ser realidade num curso espaço de tempo, como a ideia de um porto comercial, infraestrutura cuja construção é mais complexa e custosa.

Comum foram as necessidades de melhores vias de acesso às localidades, estradas de penetração, reabilitação de equipamentos urbanos e desportivos, para além da requalificação urbana e melhoria do ordenamento do terrióriom … todas com respostas positivas das respectivas tutelas, umas para serem resolvidas no imediato, ainda este ano, problemas outros, mais complexos, que serão tratados num quadro diferente e nos orçamentos vindouros.

O Governo manifestou disponibilidade total para colaborar com as câmaras, resolvendo problemas urgentes, de forma imediata, no âmbito da execução do orçamento rectificativo deste ano, como também deixou claro que há projectos que só podem ser materializados a  partir de 2027.

O certo é que a vontade existe e é total. Há uma clara mudança no paradigma relacional entre o poder central e o local. O primeiro presidente de câmara a ser recebido foi o Presidente da Câmara Municipal de Ribeira Grande de Santiago, Nelson Moreira, que apresentou um conjunto diverso de problemas e projectos. À saída, Nelson Moreira estava satisfeito com o que ouviu e com os compromissos assumidos pelo Governo. O autarca da Cidade Velha disse que saudava a iniciativa, regozijando com o facto de, em cinco anos de mandato, esta ter sido a primeira vez que se sentou com um chefe do Governo para discutir diretamente as prioridades de desenvolvimento do seu concelho.

Os presidentes das câmaras de São Lourenço dos Órgãos, São Domingos, Tarrafal de Santiago, Santa Cruz e Praia foram sequencialmente recebidos pelo Primeiro Ministro e boa parte de seu elenco governamental.

Hoje, dia 20, será a vez dos presidentes das câmaras municipais do Maio e São Miguel. Amanhã, a única mulher Presidente de Câmara, a do Porto Novo, será auscultada pelo Chefe do Governo que encerra esta primeira fase das audições aos dirigentes municipais.
Os demais autarcas que não participaram, por motivos diversos, serão ouvidos assim  que as agendas dos governantes nacionais e locais permitirem.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Governo de Cabo Verde.

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South Africa: Committee on Auditor-General Raises Reputational Risk Concerns Over Auditor-General of South Africa’s (AGSA) External Auditor

Source: APO


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The Standing Committee on the Auditor-General (SCoAG) on Friday warned that the future appointment of the Auditor-General of South Africa’s (AGSA) external auditor will not be a rubber-stamp exercise.

The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Wouter Wessels, noted that recent media reports about the AGSA’s external auditor have created a reputational risk for the country’s supreme audit institution that cannot be ignored. The committee today discussed the matter in which the AGSA’s external auditor, Crowe’s Gary Kartsounis, was reportedly involved in a controversial valuation involving a Public Investment Corporation transaction concerning Lanseria Airport. Media reports have also highlighted adverse findings against the audit partner by the Independent Regulatory Board for Auditors (IRBA).

The Chairperson of the AGSA’s independent Audit Committee, Ms Grathel Motau, told Members the committee was not informed of the IRBA matter at the time of the appointment of the external auditor or during the processes that were taking place. She said Crowe explained the omission as an oversight. Members also heard that additional assessments conducted found no evidence that the financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2026 were misstated or that the opinion given was not accurate.

The committee expressed concern that the due-diligence and disclosure requirements the AGSA is subject to may be inadequate. Members suggested that the AGSA explore options to ensure disclosure of regulatory investigations and adverse judgments beyond the assurance provided by the audit partner. They also asked about the contractual or legal remedies available and whether the AGSA was considering using another audit firm. The committee also suggested that the AGSA expand its pool of eligible firms.

Mr Wessels observed that even if the financial statements and audit opinion were not compromised, the matter sparked a public relations and reputational risk that needed to be addressed. He said that although Crowe’s contract was due to extend through to 2028, the Public Audit Act required that the Auditor General’s external auditor be approved by SCoAG each year. According to the Chairperson, this statutory responsibility meant the committee could not arrive at its November consideration without alternatives to consider. “There can be no rubber-stamp exercise, particularly considering the non-disclosure, the issues that have arisen and the reputational concerns,” the Chairperson said.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Office of the First Lady Launches “Boys Connect” Initiative, Uniting the Community in Support of Seychelles’ Young Men

Source: APO

The First Lady, Mrs Veronique Herminie, today launched “Boys Connect”, a three-day national initiative harnessing digital technology and community partnership to strengthen the education, resilience and character of Seychelles’ young men.

The official opening of the programme took place this morning at the NSC Hall, in the presence of Vice President Sebastian Pillay, Minister for Youth and Sports Ms Kalsey Belle, Minister for Social Affairs, Family and Equality Mrs Pamela Charlette, Secretary of State for NISTI Mr Xavier Estico, members of the Diplomatic Corps, principal secretaries, and representatives of the many organisations supporting the programme.

Addressing the gathering, the First Lady said the initiative responds directly to concerning trends affecting Seychellois boys, including academic underperformance, mental health difficulties, and heightened vulnerability to substance abuse and social pressures.

“True empowerment requires positive energy, teamwork, and common purpose,” she said, describing Boys Connect as a demonstration of what the nation can achieve when government, private enterprise and civil society unite behind a shared goal.

Forty-five boys aged 13 to 15, drawn from public secondary schools across Seychelles, will take part in the three-day camp, engaging with sessions on online safety, artificial intelligence, GIS mapping and drone technology, cybersecurity, and positive masculinity. The programme is delivered by 16 facilitators and 10 teachers from across the public and private sectors, reflecting a whole-of-nation commitment to youth development.

Minister for Youth and Sports Ms Kalsey Belle delivered the motivational address, urging the boys to embrace vulnerability as a form of strength. She reminded participants that asking for help is not a weakness but often the smartest and strongest decision a young man can make.

The success of Boys Connect rests on an extensive coalition of partners, including the Ministry of Education, the Egyptian Agency for Partnership Development, the National Council for Children, NISTI, StarLink, Deepam Cinema, DICT, AMSA, Seybrew, the Seychelles Fire Authority, the Ministry of Environment, Nature Seychelles, the Ministry of Health, and the Unique Foundation, among others. The First Lady expressed her profound gratitude to all partners, describing the initiative as “a masterpiece in connections and collaboration”.

Boys Connect further advances Seychelles’ participation in the global “Fostering the Future Together” coalition, in partnership with the United States Embassy. The Office of the First Lady will build on this momentum with the launch of the “Welcome to Puberty” programme for girls at English River School on 10th September, alongside continued advocacy for young women through the WOSITA Foundation and the “14–18 Girl Ambassadors” STEM initiative.

The First Lady conveyed her sincere appreciation to President Dr Patrick Herminie for his unwavering support, and expressed her hope that Boys Connect will become an annual fixture on the national calendar, sustained by continued partnership and collective national commitment.

Following the official launch, and prior to their first session on online safety, the boys had an audience with Vice President Sebastian Pillay, who interacted with them personally and offered words of encouragement as they began their three-day journey.

Boys Connect stands as a powerful example of what every sector of the nation, government, private enterprise and civil society, can achieve when united by a shared purpose, demonstrating the strength of collaboration at every level.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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South Africa: National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Gauteng Delegation Calls for Urgent Action on Infrastructure Projects as Provincial Week Concludes

Source: APO


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The National Council of Provinces (NCOP) Gauteng Provincial Delegation has called for urgent corrective action and strengthened accountability in the delivery of public infrastructure in the province, following oversight visits to seven projects as part of the 2026 Provincial Week report-back programme.

The delegation concluded its four-day visit in Gauteng and this morning presented its draft report following engagements with the Gauteng provincial leadership, including the Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, the Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Ms Morakane Mosupyoe, Members of the Executive Council and senior government officials.

The 2026 Provincial Week programme focused on assessing progress on commitments and recommendations arising from previous oversight visits conducted in 2024 and 2025, with particular attention to whether interventions have resulted in tangible improvements for communities.

Premier Lesufi welcomed the delegation and called for urgent matters emerging from the oversight process to be addressed without waiting for the final NCOP report to be formally referred to the province after adoption by Parliament.

The Premier indicated that where matters requiring immediate intervention had been identified, the provincial government should begin addressing them while the formal parliamentary process was being concluded. The delegation welcomed this approach, emphasising that oversight must result in corrective action and should not be limited to reporting on challenges that have already been identified during previous engagements.

The delegation visited Rustervaal Secondary School, Simunye Secondary School, Barcelona Primary School, Semphato Junior Secondary School, Khutsong Clinic, the Women’s Heritage Monument and the R82 road project.

The overall assessment found progress on some projects, while significant challenges remain on others. The delegation’s findings highlighted the need for stronger project monitoring, improved coordination between government institutions and more effective consequence management where contractors, professional service providers or officials fail to fulfil their responsibilities.

The delegation called for an independent audit of the R82 project and recommended that the problematic projects be subjected to continued oversight, including through monitoring by NCOP’s verification team. It further recommended that the relevant NCOP Select Committees be engaged to provide intensified scrutiny of the identified underperforming projects.

Given the challenges identified, the delegation also recommended that the National Treasury and Auditor-General of South Africa be invited to future provincial oversight engagements to strengthen scrutiny of financial management, procurement and project implementation.

The delegation welcomed the provincial government’s commitments to address the matters raised and emphasised that these commitments must translate into measurable improvements on the ground.

The Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Ms Morakane Mosupyoe, welcomed the delegation’s oversight work and reaffirmed the legislature’s responsibility to continue monitoring the implementation of commitments through its portfolio committees. “We will continue working with the portfolio committees to monitor the work that has been committed to and to hold the executive accountable. We will continue looking at the work that has been committed to and ensure that these problems are resolved in time, in the interest of the people of Gauteng, because they do need these services.”

The Speaker also encouraged the NCOP to continue raising matters affecting Gauteng that require national intervention and to ensure that these challenges remain on the national agenda.

Presenting the delegation’s report, Mr Mpho Modise, NCOP Gauteng provincial delegation member, said the delegation had identified both progress and serious shortcomings during its engagements and would continue to monitor the implementation of commitments arising from the Provincial Week programme.

“The conclusion of our site visits does not mean the conclusion of our oversight. The commitments made to the delegation must now translate into measurable progress on the ground. Where we found progress, we acknowledge it; where we found delays, weak coordination or failures in accountability, we will continue to demand corrective action.”

Mr Modise said the delegation welcomed the willingness of the provincial leadership to engage with its findings and stressed that communities should ultimately experience the benefit of the interventions being made.

“Oversight is meaningful when it results in action. The people of Gauteng need functioning schools, clinics, roads and public facilities, and they should not have to wait indefinitely for projects that government has already committed to deliver. We will continue using the parliamentary oversight mechanisms available to us to monitor these commitments and hold responsible institutions to account,” Mr Modise added.

The NCOP Gauteng Provincial Delegation will continue to monitor implementation of the commitments arising from the 2026 Provincial Week programme and will use the relevant parliamentary mechanisms to follow up on outstanding matters.

The 2026 NCOP Provincial Week was conducted under the themes “Confronting the Challenges Facing the Timely Delivery of Viable Public Infrastructure to Communities” and “Building Viable Municipalities for Enhanced Delivery of Basic Services”.
 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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South Africa, Zimbabwe strengthen bilateral ties

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa, Zimbabwe strengthen bilateral ties

South Africa and Zimbabwe have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, with the signing of several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening collaboration in key areas ranging from agriculture and gender equality to correctional services, diplomacy, arts and culture.

The agreements were signed on Friday at the conclusion of the Fourth Session of the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC), co-chaired by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Pretoria.

The signing of the legal instruments formed part of efforts by the two neighbouring countries to translate the longstanding political and historical ties into practical programmes that contribute to economic growth, development and shared prosperity.

The agreements include an MoU on collaboration between the Zimbabwe Foreign Service Institute and the Diplomatic Academy of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa. The MoU was signed by Minister Ronald Lamola and his counterpart, Minister Professor Amon Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

An agreement on correctional services was also signed, while the two countries concluded an MoU on women’s empowerment and gender equality.

Further agreements covered cooperation in agriculture, as well as arts, culture and heritage.

Closing the Fourth Session of the BNC, President Cyril Ramaphosa said the agreements represented concrete plans to deepen cooperation between the two countries.

“The agreements and Memoranda of Understanding signed in our presence today, together with the decisions reached, reflect our concrete plans to deepen cooperation. These instruments must now be implemented so that our countries and people benefit,” he said. 

Strategic partnership

The President said South Africa regarded Zimbabwe as a strategic partner and one of its largest trading partners, adding that the two countries had committed to expanding investment and trade.

“For South Africa, Zimbabwe remains a strategic partner. It remains one of our largest trading partners. We have undertaken here to redouble efforts to expand investment and trade,” the President said. 

He added that inclusive economic growth is critical to improving the lives of citizens by widening access to basic services and creating employment opportunities.

“Inclusive economic growth will give us the means to widen access to food, shelter, health, education, water and sanitation. It will give us the means to create employment and economic opportunities, especially for women and for the young,” he said.

Focus on investment and trade

The President identified a wide range of sectors in which he believes there are significant opportunities for closer cooperation and investment.

“We see great opportunities in agriculture and agro-processing, energy, mining, transport, medicines and vaccines, water, tourism, finance and digital technology,” he said.

He said the political commitment demonstrated at the BNC should encourage companies in both countries to invest in infrastructure and industrialisation initiatives.

The movement of people and goods between the two countries also featured prominently in the discussions, with President Ramaphosa stressing the importance of efficient border management.

“We are committed to moving people and goods seamlessly and securely across our border in a well-managed and coordinated manner,” he said.

He said Ministers and senior officials would follow up on the implementation of the priority projects identified during the BNC.

The two countries also committed to strengthening cooperation in addressing cross-border and transnational organised crime, while deepening people-to-people and cultural relations.

South Africa and Zimbabwe would also continue working with other SADC countries to advance regional integration and industrialisation.

“Our common history and geography are the foundations of our shared future. The realisation of that shared future depends on effective and sustained collaboration,” he said.

He urged both countries to ensure that the decisions taken at the BNC translate into tangible improvements in the lives of their people.

“As we prepare for the Fifth Session of our Bi-National Commission, let us turn our decisions into actions. Let us turn our people’s expectations into reality,” he said.

Zimbabwe seeks stronger economic integration

 President Mnangagwa welcomed the outcomes of the BNC, describing the session as highly productive and one which had set key priorities and the strategic direction for the bilateral relationship.

He said the relationship between South Africa and Zimbabwe was rooted in shared history, solidarity and common values, adding that the prosperity of one country is closely linked to that of the other.

“When South Africa thrives, Zimbabwe thrives too, and vice versa,” President Mnangagwa said.

He said the two countries had agreed to reduce their over-reliance on distant markets.

“We agreed to reduce over-reliance on distant markets as a way to build resilience from external shocks,” he said.

President Mnangagwa identified cross-border manufacturing value chains, infrastructure development, agriculture and mineral beneficiation among the High Impact Priority Projects that should now be implemented.

“We should implement the identified High Impact Priority Projects, which include cross-border manufacturing value chains, infrastructure development projects and agriculture, as well as mineral beneficiation, among other strategic and transformational economic projects,” he said.

He also placed particular emphasis on infrastructure that would improve the movement of people, goods and services.

“The construction of the Third Limpopo Bridge and operationalisation of the One Stop Border Post are priorities that are vital in facilitating seamless movement of goods, services and people across our borders,” he said.

In this regard, President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe was committed to removing barriers to trade and addressing challenges experienced by South African businesses operating in Zimbabwe.

“In this respect, Zimbabwe is committed to removing all the tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade. We are also ready to resolve the challenges faced by South African entities operating in Zimbabwe,” he said. 

He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s drive to improve the business environment and attract cross-border investment.

Shared heritage

Beyond economic cooperation, the BNC also placed emphasis on preserving the shared liberation history of the two countries.

President Mnangagwa called on South Africa to develop land allocated to it at the Museum of African Liberation in Zimbabwe, saying the initiative would help preserve the history of the struggle against apartheid and inspire future generations.

“Your Excellency, Zimbabwe looks forward to South Africa taking steps to develop land allocated to it at the Museum of African Liberation.

“The Museum provides a unique platform to showcase the country’s heroic anti-apartheid struggle, and its significant contribution to the liberation of the African countries,” he said.

The President also expressed appreciation for South Africa’s support for Zimbabwe’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and for its advocacy for the removal of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.

Implementation

Looking ahead, President Mnangagwa said the signing of the agreements was only the beginning, and that the two governments now needed to ensure that commitments were implemented.

“Today, we have adopted important decisions and witnessed the signing of several legal instruments in various fields of cooperation.

“We must now translate these commitments into tangible outcomes through concrete actions that deliver meaningful benefits for our countries and people,” he said.

He called for the full use of the Decision Management System to monitor implementation and identify areas requiring corrective action.

President Mnangagwa said he was confident that the outcomes of the Fourth BNC would contribute to the development objectives shared by the two countries.

“I am confident that the win-win outcomes of this BNC will contribute significantly to our shared developmental agenda,” he said.

The Fourth Session of the BNC has therefore set out an expanded programme of cooperation between South Africa and Zimbabwe, with both governments now expected to focus on implementation, particularly in trade, investment, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, mining, border management and people-to-people relations.

The two Presidents agreed that the strength of the bilateral relationship would ultimately be measured not only by the agreements signed, but by the extent to which those commitments translate into economic opportunities and tangible benefits for the people of both countries. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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SIU to probe Theewaterskloof Local Municipality

Source: Government of South Africa

SIU to probe Theewaterskloof Local Municipality

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) will investigate allegations of serious maladministration, corruption, irregular expenditure and unlawful or improper loss of public funds at the Western Cape-based Theewaterskloof Local Municipality.

This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the unit to probe the municipality and recover any possible financial losses incurred.

“The SIU will investigate the procurement of, or contracting for, goods, works, services, or leases by or on behalf of the municipality for the supply, delivery and installation of 14 backup electricity generators for boreholes and water pump stations during the 2022/23 financial year.

“The investigation will cover boreholes and water pump stations in Grabouw, Greyton, Caledon, Villiersdorp, Botrivier, Genadendal, Tesselaarsdal and Riviersonderend.

“The SIU will also investigate payments made in respect of the generators, where such procurement and payments may not have been fair, competitive, transparent, equitable or cost-effective, or may have been contrary to applicable legislation, manuals, guidelines, practice notes, circulars or instructions issued by National Treasury or the relevant Provincial Treasury,” the unit stated.

Furthermore, the corruption-busting unit will also probe any improper or unlawful conduct by “officials or employees of the municipality, the service providers concerned, or any other person or entity, in relation to the allegations occurring between 1 October 2022 and 21 August 2026”.

“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU will identify systemic failures and recommend measures to prevent future losses.

“In terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act, 1996 (Act No. 74 of 1996), the SIU is empowered to investigate the allegations, institute civil proceedings in the Special Tribunal, and take steps to recover any financial losses suffered by the State,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Springboks face All Blacks in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry opener

Source: Government of South Africa

Springboks face All Blacks in Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry opener

The Springboks will face New Zealand’s All Blacks in the opening Test of the inaugural Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Saturday.

According to the Springboks website, coach Rassie Erasmus said the squad selected to face the All Blacks is well balanced, combining players who remained in South Africa to prepare for the series with others who featured against Argentina.

“The All Blacks are a quality team, and we selected combinations we think would be best suited for the challenge this weekend. It certainly helped to have some players return from injury last week and get back into top-flight Test rugby, while some of the others who had a heavy workload in the Nations Championship had sufficient time to recover from the physical toll on them,” Erasmus said on the Springboks website. 

He said the whole group had now been together for more than a week and was aligned on the way the team wants to play this weekend.

“We are preparing for an 80-minute grind. They have a well-rounded squad with physical forwards and an exciting backline, so we have to be sharp and accurate in our execution from the outset.

“Many of the matches between the sides have come down to the wire, so it is important that we use the chances we create and ensure that our discipline is on point. It is going to be a big battle, but the entire squad is excited about the match and looking forward to it,” Erasmus said on the Springboks website.

The match kicks off at 5:10 pm.  –SAnews.gov.za

 

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