Category: Africa

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United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Tanzania sign five-year Programme for Country Partnership to advance inclusive and sustainable industrial development

Source: APO

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the United Republic of Tanzania have signed a five-year Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) for the period 2026–2031. The Programme for Country Partnership (PCP) is UNIDO’s flagship model for accelerating inclusive and sustainable industrial development. Developed at the request of the Government of Tanzania, it serves as a government-led platform bringing together public institutions, the private sector, development partners and financial institutions to support the implementation of the Tanzania Development Vision 2050 (Dira 2050).

UNIDO Director General Gerd Müller: “Tanzania has established itself as one of the most dynamic economies in the region, and it has an ambitious vision for its sustainable industrial development future. With this Programme for Country Partnership we begin a new chapter in the already strong cooperation between UNIDO and Tanzania, with innovative approaches to development cooperation that place investment, trade and market access, and value creation at the centre of economic transformation that brings real results on the ground.”

The PCP will support Tanzania’s strengthening of industrial governance, promote local value addition and skills development while attracting investment and  expanding opportunities for trade and industrial growth. By aligning reforms, partnerships and financing around nationally defined priorities, the programme will accelerate industrial development, create employment opportunities and strengthen the country’s productive capacities.

Judith Salvio Kapinga, Tanzania’s Minister of Industry and Trade: “The PCP demonstrates Tanzania’s commitment to translating the ambitions of Dira 2050 into concrete action. By bringing together Government, the private sector and development partners around a shared vision, it provides a platform to accelerate industrial development and create new opportunities for businesses and citizens alike.”

As one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, Tanzania is already strategically positioned as a regional gateway connecting East, Central and Southern Africa especially through the Port of Dar es Salaam and the Central Corridor, providing significant opportunities for increased trade and regional value chain integration. The PCP will support the country’s ambition to become a competitive industrial economy while fostering sustainable growth through circular economy approaches, sustainable energy solutions and resource-efficient industrial development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

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Vice-President Pillay Launches Revamped Seychelles Government Portal in Milestone for Digital Governance

Source: APO


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Vice-President and Minister for Information, Technology and Innovation, Mr Sebastien Pillay, yesterday officially launched the revamped Seychelles Government Portal, egov.sc, at a ceremony held at the Savoy Resort and Spa. The event, hosted by the Department of Information under the Office of the Vice-President, was attended by high-level guests from across Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

The relaunch of egov.sc, a joint initiative of the Department of Information and the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), was held under the theme “Access Government Services, With Just One Click.” The launch ceremony coincided with a profoundly significant moment in the nation’s calendar, the 50th Anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Seychelles.

Delivering the keynote address, Vice-President Pillay described the milestone as a decisive stride in President Patrick Herminie’s vision to position Seychelles among the world’s leading digital economies within the next five years.

He spoke candidly about the state of the portal prior to its revamp, noting that egov.sc had not undergone any meaningful review or update for well over a decade. During that time, he said, the world had evolved and so too had the expectations of the Seychellois people, yet the portal had, in practice, become little more than a platform that public servants visited solely to access their government email, falling far short of its mandate to provide quality, effective access to centralised government services.

Vice-President Pillay stated that upon assuming his responsibilities as Minister with oversight of Information and Technology, closing that gap became one of his highest priorities. The objective of the revamp, he emphasised, was not merely to give the portal a fresh appearance, but to restore it to its rightful place as a living, well-maintained platform that delivers a genuinely high standard of public service, one aligned with the national digital plan and one that makes government information truly accessible to all.

The ceremony featured a project overview delivered by the Principal Secretary of the Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT), Mr Benjamin Choppy, who outlined the technical scope and key features of the revamped portal, underscoring its significance to Seychelles’ broader digital economy ambitions.

This was followed by a symbolic handing over of the portal poster from the PS of DICT to the PS of the Department of Information, Ms Ginnie Lucas. The proceedings were enriched by a poetry performance, which preceded the centrepiece moment of the afternoon, the official unveiling of the revamped egov.sc through a dedicated launch video, activated by Vice-President Pillay. The SNYC Band then provided musical entertainment, a patriotic performance in honour of the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary.

Going forward, the Department of Information will bear responsibility for content management on the portal, whilst DICT continues to manage its technical functions.

Members of the public, residents, and organisations are invited to visit egov.sc to experience the convenience of their government at their fingertips.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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30 June Declared Public Holiday as Seychelles Marks 50 Years of Independence

Source: APO


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The Office of the President wishes to inform the public that Tuesday, 30 June 2026, has been declared a public holiday, and the declaration has been officially gazetted.

The additional public holiday forms part of Seychelles’ commemoration of the 50th Anniversary of Independence, a historic milestone marking five decades of sovereignty, nationhood and development since the country attained independence on 29 June 1976.

The public holiday will provide Seychellois with an opportunity to continue participating in the Golden Jubilee celebrations and to reflect on the nation’s achievements, shared identity and aspirations for the future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Seychelles: President Herminie Welcomes Elderly Citizens to State House Following Initiative by the Office of the First Lady

Source: APO


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A group of elderly citizens was welcomed to State House today by President Dr Patrick Herminie during a warm and meaningful exchange aimed at recognising the valuable contributions of senior citizens to Seychelles’ social and national development.

The visit was organised in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady of Seychelles as part of ongoing efforts to promote the well-being, inclusion and active engagement of elderly persons within the community.

During the gathering, the elderly visitors had the opportunity to meet with the President, share their experiences and reflections, and extend their well wishes.

The exchange provided a platform for open and heartfelt conversations on matters of interest to senior citizens and the wider community.

President Herminie expressed his appreciation for the role played by older generations in shaping the nation and acknowledged the wealth of knowledge, experience and values they continue to pass on to younger generations.

The visit also builds on initiatives undertaken by the Office of the First Lady in support of senior citizens, including the recent Free Eye Screening Camp organised under the theme “Partnering for Nation Building”, reflecting a continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life and well-being of elderly persons across the country.

The President stressed on the importance of ensuring that senior citizens remain valued, respected and included in national life, noting that their contributions have helped lay the foundation upon which Seychelles continues to grow and prosper.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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O Congo está a transformar as suas reservas em projetos viáveis do ponto de vista financeiro – e a janela de investimento está a abrir-se

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Com as exportações de GNL previstas para triplicar para 3 mtpa, a produção de petróleo a montante com o objetivo de atingir 500 000 bpd e um novo impulso ao conteúdo local, a República do Congo está a posicionar-se como um dos mercados de hidrocarbonetos mais atraentes para o investimento na África Central. Sob a liderança do recém-nomeado Ministro dos Hidrocarbonetos, Stev Simplice Onanga, o país está a dar prioridade ao crescimento do setor, equilibrando o conteúdo local com a reposição de reservas e o avanço dos projetos.

O que distingue o Congo não é a dimensão das suas reservas, mas o ritmo a que essas reservas estão a ser transformadas em projetos comercialmente viáveis. Desde a expansão do GNL da Eni e os desenvolvimentos em águas profundas da TotalEnergies até à otimização de instalações existentes pela Trident Energy e ao crescimento da produção na Ammat Global Resources, o capital está a fluir para projetos com vias de monetização mais claras e retornos a curto prazo.

Na véspera do Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2027 — a principal plataforma do país para investimento e parcerias no setor energético —, o foco está a deslocar-se do potencial de fronteira para projetos viáveis do ponto de vista financeiro já em desenvolvimento.

A reforma política está a reduzir os riscos do investimento

O caso de investimento do Congo está a ser redefinido pelo alinhamento entre a base de recursos, a reforma regulatória e a execução de projetos. A produção petrolífera consolidada, a expansão da capacidade de GNL e os ajustamentos fiscais estão a reduzir gradualmente os riscos associados às atividades à superfície.

As recentes reformas lideradas pelo Ministério dos Hidrocarbonetos e pela Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo conferiram maior estrutura ao setor. O Código do Gás, introduzido em outubro de 2025, formaliza os termos fiscais para a comercialização do gás, enquanto o Plano Diretor do Gás dá prioridade à redução da queima de gás e à implantação de projetos de gás para energia, com o objetivo de atingir 1 500 MW até 2030.

Está também a ser considerada uma nova ronda de licenciamento no setor a montante, com o objetivo de atrair capital fresco tanto para áreas maduras como para áreas de fronteira. Em conjunto, estas medidas estão a melhorar a visibilidade nos segmentos a montante, a meio e a jusante, com a atividade recente de projetos a reforçar esta mudança.

Os projetos que impulsionam o próximo ciclo

O petróleo em águas profundas continua a ser fundamental para as perspetivas de produção do Congo, com as operadoras a avançarem tanto em novos desenvolvimentos como na otimização de campos já em exploração. A TotalEnergies está a avançar com os trabalhos na licença de Moho, na sequência da descoberta de Moho G em abril de 2026, apoiada por um programa de perfuração de preenchimento no valor de 500 a 600 milhões de dólares, com o objetivo de aumentar a produção em cerca de 40 000 bpd.

A Ammat Global Resources, uma empresa independente local, tem como objetivo um crescimento de 70% na produção dos seus campos de Loango e Zatchi, onde os poços reativados e as plataformas modernizadas já aumentaram a produção em 75%. A Perenco continua a registar ganhos constantes, adicionando cerca de 6 000 bpd através do seu programa de perfuração para 2025–2026.

A Trident Energy, após ter adquirido uma participação operacional de 85% nos ativos de Nkossa e Nsoko II em 2025, está focada em prolongar a vida útil dos campos através de trabalhos de otimização submarina e de reabilitação.

Embora o petróleo continue a ser a principal fonte de receitas, o gás está a emergir rapidamente como o segmento de crescimento mais rápido do Congo. O projeto Congo LNG da Eni entregou a sua primeira carga da Fase 2 em fevereiro de 2026, na sequência do arranque da unidade FLNG de Nguya em dezembro de 2025. Juntamente com o Tango FLNG, a capacidade aumentou de 0,6 mtpa para 3 mtpa. A Trident Energy também propôs um projeto FLNG com o objetivo de aumentar ainda mais a capacidade no mercado de gás do país. Espera-se que o projeto funcione como infraestrutura partilhada, permitindo que vários operadores processem gás dos seus respetivos campos. Isto cria uma saída para o gás associado que, de outra forma, poderia ficar sem destino, apoiando os objetivos mais amplos de diversificação do país.

O conteúdo local está a redefinir os termos de investimento

Para além da política do setor a montante, o ministro Onanga posicionou o conteúdo local como um pilar central do quadro de investimento do Congo e um fator determinante na forma como o capital é estruturado e aplicado.

Os decretos 2019-342, 343, 344 e 345 estabelecem requisitos relativos à subcontratação, à localização da mão-de-obra e aos compromissos de formação, o que está a provocar uma mudança gradual na forma como os projetos são estruturados e as parcerias formadas. As operadoras são cada vez mais avaliadas não só pela execução técnica, mas também pela criação de valor no país, incluindo parcerias com empresas locais e o desenvolvimento de competências. A logística, a manutenção e outras áreas de serviços são cada vez mais canalizadas através de prestadores nacionais.

No CEIF 2027 — que decorrerá de 1 a 3 de junho em Brazzaville — a atenção centrar-se-á no que está a avançar e nos investidores posicionados para participar nesse fluxo de projetos. O setor energético do Congo já não se define apenas pelo potencial: os projetos estão a avançar, o capital está a ser comprometido e as políticas começam a acompanhar a atividade no terreno.

À medida que a República do Congo passa das reservas para as receitas, o sinal para os investidores é claro: isto já está a acontecer, não se trata de uma oportunidade futura.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Energy Capital & Power.

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Congo Is Turning Reserves into Bankable Projects – and the Investment Window Is Opening

Source: APO


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With LNG exports set to triple to 3 mtpa, upstream oil production targeting 500,000 bpd and a renewed push on local content, the Republic of Congo is positioning itself as one of Central Africa’s most investable hydrocarbon markets. Under the leadership of the newly-appointed Minister of Hydrocarbons, Stev Simplice Onanga, the country is prioritizing industry growth by balancing local content with reserve replacement and project advancement.

What sets Congo apart is not the scale of its reserves, but the pace at which those reserves are being turned into commercially viable projects. From Eni’s LNG expansion and TotalEnergies’ deepwater developments to brownfield optimization by Trident Energy and output growth at Ammat Global Resources, capital is flowing into projects with clearer monetization pathways and nearer-term returns.

Ahead of the Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2027 – the country’s leading platform for energy investment and partnerships – the story is shifting away from frontier potential toward bankable projects already under development.

Policy Reform Is De-Risking Investment

Congo’s investment case is being reshaped by the alignment of resource base, regulatory reform and project delivery. Established oil production, expanding LNG capacity and fiscal adjustments are gradually reducing above-ground risk.

Recent reforms led by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo have added structure to the sector. The Gas Code, introduced in October 2025, formalizes fiscal terms for gas commercialization, while the Gas Master Plan prioritizes flaring reduction and gas-to-power deployment, targeting 1,500 MW by 2030.

A new upstream licensing round is also under consideration, aimed at attracting fresh capital into both mature and frontier acreage. Together, these measures are improving visibility across upstream, midstream and downstream segments, with recent project activity reinforcing the shift.

The Projects Driving the Next Cycle

Deepwater oil remains central to Congo’s production outlook, with operators progressing both new developments and brownfield optimization. TotalEnergies is advancing work at the Moho licence following the April 2026 Moho G discovery, backed by a $500–$600 million infill drilling program targeting about 40,000 bpd in incremental output.

Local independent Ammat Global Resources is targeting 70% production growth from its Loango and Zatchi fields, where reactivated wells and upgraded platforms have already lifted output by 75%. Perenco continues steady gains, adding roughly 6,000 bpd through its 2025–2026 drilling program.

Trident Energy, after acquiring an 85% working interest in the Nkossa and Nsoko II assets in 2025, is focused on extending field life through subsea optimization and redevelopment work.

While oil continues to anchor revenues, gas is rapidly emerging as Congo’s fastest-growing segment. Eni’s Congo LNG project delivered its first cargo from Phase 2 in February 2026, following the startup of the Nguya FLNG unit in December 2025. Together with Tango FLNG, capacity has risen from 0.6 mtpa to 3 mtpa. Trident Energy has also proposed an FLNG project aimed at adding further capacity across the country’s gas market. The project is expected to operate as shared infrastructure, allowing multiple operators to process gas from their respective fields. This creates an outlet for associated gas that might otherwise be stranded, supporting the country’s broader diversification goals.

Local Content Is Reshaping Investment Terms

Beyond upstream policy, Minister Onanga has positioned local content as a central pillar of Congo’s investment framework, and a key determinant of how capital is structured and deployed.

Decrees 2019-342, 343, 344 and 345 set requirements around subcontracting, workforce localization and training commitments, with the effect being a gradual shift in how projects are structured and how partnerships are formed. Operators are increasingly assessed not only on technical delivery but on in-country value creation, including partnerships with local firms and skills development. Logistics, maintenance and other service areas are increasingly channeled through domestic providers.

At CEIF 2027 – taking place June 1–3 in Brazzaville – attention will shift to what is moving forward and to the investors positioned to take part in that pipeline. Congo’s energy sector is no longer defined by potential alone: projects are moving, capital is being committed and policy is starting to catch up with activity on the ground.

As the Republic of Congo moves from reserves to revenue, the signal to investors is clear: this is already unfolding, not a future opportunity.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Le Congo transforme ses réserves en projets bancables – et la fenêtre d’investissement s’ouvre

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Avec des exportations de GNL qui devraient tripler pour atteindre 3 mtpa, une production pétrolière en amont visant 500 000 bpd et un nouvel élan en faveur du contenu local, la République du Congo se positionne comme l’un des marchés d’hydrocarbures les plus attractifs d’Afrique centrale pour les investisseurs. Sous la direction du ministre des Hydrocarbures nouvellement nommé, Stev Simplice Onanga, le pays donne la priorité à la croissance du secteur en trouvant un équilibre entre le contenu local, le renouvellement des réserves et l’avancement des projets.

Ce qui distingue le Congo, ce n’est pas l’ampleur de ses réserves, mais la vitesse à laquelle celles-ci sont transformées en projets commercialement viables. De l’extension des activités GNL d’Eni aux développements en eaux profondes de TotalEnergies, en passant par l’optimisation des sites existants par Trident Energy et la croissance de la production chez Ammat Global Resources, les capitaux affluent vers des projets offrant des perspectives de rentabilisation plus claires et des retours sur investissement à court terme.

À l’approche du Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2027 – la principale plateforme du pays dédiée aux investissements et aux partenariats dans le secteur de l’énergie –, l’attention se détourne du potentiel des zones pionnières pour se porter sur des projets bancables déjà en cours de développement.

Les réformes politiques réduisent les risques liés à l’investissement

L’attrait du Congo pour les investisseurs est redéfini par l’alignement entre les ressources disponibles, la réforme réglementaire et la mise en œuvre des projets. Une production pétrolière bien établie, l’augmentation des capacités de GNL et les ajustements fiscaux réduisent progressivement les risques liés à l’exploitation.

Les récentes réformes menées par le ministère des Hydrocarbures et la Société nationale des pétroles du Congo ont renforcé la structure du secteur. Le Code du gaz, introduit en octobre 2025, formalise les conditions fiscales de la commercialisation du gaz, tandis que le Plan directeur du gaz donne la priorité à la réduction du torchage et au déploiement de la production d’électricité à partir du gaz, avec un objectif de 1 500 MW d’ici 2030.

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Un nouveau cycle d’octroi de licences en amont est également à l’étude, visant à attirer de nouveaux capitaux tant vers les zones de production matures que vers les zones pionnières. Ensemble, ces mesures améliorent la visibilité sur les segments amont, intermédiaire et aval, l’activité récente en matière de projets renforçant cette évolution.

Les projets moteurs du prochain cycle

Le pétrole en eaux profondes reste au cœur des perspectives de production du Congo, les opérateurs poursuivant à la fois de nouveaux développements et l’optimisation des sites existants. TotalEnergies fait avancer les travaux sur la concession Moho suite à la découverte de Moho G en avril 2026, grâce à un programme de forages d’intercalation de 500 à 600 millions de dollars visant à augmenter la production d’environ 40 000 barils par jour.

L’opérateur indépendant local Ammat Global Resources vise une croissance de 70 % de sa production sur ses champs de Loango et de Zatchi, où la remise en service de puits et la modernisation des plateformes ont déjà permis d’augmenter la production de 75 %. Perenco poursuit sa progression régulière, avec une augmentation d’environ 6 000 barils par jour grâce à son programme de forage 2025-2026.

Après avoir acquis en 2025 une participation de 85 % dans les actifs de Nkossa et Nsoko II, Trident Energy se concentre sur la prolongation de la durée de vie des gisements grâce à des travaux d’optimisation et de réaménagement sous-marins.

Si le pétrole reste le pilier des revenus, le gaz s’impose rapidement comme le segment connaissant la plus forte croissance au Congo. Le projet Congo LNG d’Eni a livré sa première cargaison issue de la phase 2 en février 2026, après la mise en service de l’unité FLNG de Nguya en décembre 2025. Avec l’unité Tango FLNG, la capacité est passée de 0,6 mtpa à 3 mtpa. Trident Energy a également proposé un projet FLNG visant à renforcer encore la capacité du marché gazier national. Ce projet devrait fonctionner comme une infrastructure partagée, permettant à plusieurs opérateurs de traiter le gaz provenant de leurs gisements respectifs. Cela crée un débouché pour le gaz associé qui, sans cela, risquerait d’être perdu, contribuant ainsi aux objectifs plus larges de diversification du pays.

Le contenu local redéfinit les conditions d’investissement

Au-delà de la politique en amont, le ministre Onanga a fait du contenu local un pilier central du cadre d’investissement du Congo, ainsi qu’un facteur déterminant de la manière dont les capitaux sont structurés et déployés.

Les décrets n° 2019-342, 343, 344 et 345 fixent des exigences en matière de sous-traitance, de localisation de la main-d’œuvre et d’engagements de formation, ce qui se traduit par une évolution progressive de la manière dont les projets sont structurés et les partenariats formés. Les opérateurs sont de plus en plus évalués non seulement sur leurs performances techniques, mais aussi sur la création de valeur dans le pays, notamment à travers des partenariats avec des entreprises locales et le développement des compétences. La logistique, la maintenance et d’autres domaines de services sont de plus en plus confiés à des prestataires nationaux.

Lors du CEIF 2027 – qui se tiendra du 1er au 3 juin à Brazzaville – l’attention se portera sur les avancées en cours et sur les investisseurs bien placés pour participer à ce pipeline de projets. Le secteur énergétique congolais ne se définit plus uniquement par son potentiel : les projets avancent, les capitaux sont engagés et la politique commence à s’aligner sur l’activité sur le terrain.

Alors que la République du Congo passe des réserves aux recettes, le message adressé aux investisseurs est clair : il s’agit d’une réalité en cours, et non d’une opportunité future.

Distribué par APO Group pour Energy Capital & Power.

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Dr. Rasha Kelej drives an impactful change in public healthcare landscape in Africa and beyond by providing over 2600 Scholarships to doctors from 52 countries

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com) commemorated World Health Day 2026 in partnership with the First Ladies of African and Asian countries, who are also the Ambassadors of the Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign, with a strong reaffirmation of its commitment to improving and transforming healthcare access across Africa, Asia, and beyond through its Scholarships and Capacity Building Program.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation shared, “At Merck Foundation, we remain committed to transforming the patient care landscape and improving access to quality and equitable healthcare solutions across Africa, Asia, and beyond. For the past 14 years, we have marked World Health Day every day through our ongoing efforts to build healthcare capacity in underserved communities.

I am proud to share that we have provided more than 2,600 scholarships for young healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. Through these scholarships, many of our Merck Foundation alumni are becoming the first-ever specialists in their respective fields in their countries, including Namibia, Liberia, The Gambia, Burundi, Malawi, Sierra Leone, Zambia, Guinea, Ethiopia, Congo, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Zimbabwe, among others.”

“This is truly history in the making, and we are proud to be a part of Africa’s legacy by empowering a new generation of healthcare specialists who will serve generations to come.” Added Dr. Kelej.

As you all know, the lack of financial resources is not the only challenge facing Africa. A far more pressing issue is the scarcity of trained healthcare providers capable of effectively preventing, diagnosing, and managing diseases.

This sweeping shortage of medical and healthcare personnel has been one of the most critical barriers to access to quality healthcare across the continent.

As per WHO 2021 report, African region has 24% of the world’s disease burden, whereas there are only 2.9 healthcare workers per 1000 capita. This gap has a profound impact on health outcomes.

Therefore, the Merck Foundation scholarships are highly significant, as they provide doctors with specialized training, helping to bridge healthcare gaps and improve patient care in underserved communities.

Merck Foundation works closely with their Ambassadors, the African and Asian First Ladies and local partners such as Ministries of Health, Education, Information & Communication, Gender, Academia, Research Institutions, Media and Art in building healthcare capacity and addressing health, social & economic challenges in developing countries and under-served communities.

Merck Foundation also actively empowers women and youth in Science and Technology through its STEM Program and the annual Merck Foundation Africa Research Summit (MARS) Awards that recognize and celebrate the Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, fostering research excellence.

Dr. Kelej shared, “This theme of World Health Day 2026 ““Together for health. Stand with science,” aligns perfectly with our program that train healthcare providers and empower women and youth in STEM”.

Merck Foundation CEO also announced the Call for Applications for 2026 Scholarships.

“I am happy to announce the Call for Applications for the 2026 Scholarships for young healthcare providers with special focus on women medical graduates. These include on-site fellowship programs, clinical training programs and online one-year diploma & two-year master degree in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. The applications are invited through the Office of our Ambassadors and long-term partners, The First Ladies of Africa and Ministry of Health of each country,” shared Dr Rasha Kelej.

To Apply for In-campus Scholarships in Fertility, Oncology, Diabetes and other specialties: 

https://apo-opa.co/4uPIEHm

To Apply for Online Scholarships, visit: 

https://apo-opa.co/4oLDkUc

The selection for each scholarship will be based on request by First Lady Office, Ministry of Health and / or Medical Society with the aim to fill the gaps of public healthcare system in each country.

The selection will be based on eligibility criteria fulfillment of each training Institute and Foundation, scholarship availability and fund availability. 

– 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!
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4uRXIo6

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/43Rs0fM), X (https://apo-opa.co/4w5itxp), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4uMUjXz), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4vCGjkg), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3QylN5k) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4eYn4vJ).

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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Afreximbank remporte deux distinctions lors des Gold Quill Awards 2026 de Association internationale des communicateurs d’entreprise (IABC) pour l’excellence de ses communications stratégiques

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export, (Afreximbank) ((www.Afreximbank.com) a reçu deux distinctions prestigieuses lors des Gold Quill Awards 2026 de l’Association internationale des communicateurs d’entreprise (IABC), l’un des programmes de récompenses les plus prestigieux au monde en matière de communication stratégique.

La Banque a reçu un Prix d’excellence dans la catégorie « Événements spéciaux et expérientiels » pour la Foire commerciale intra-africaine 2025 (IATF2025) qui s’est tenue à Alger, en Algérie, ainsi qu’un Prix du mérite dans la catégorie « Réseaux sociaux » pour ses campagnes sur les réseaux sociaux réaffirment ainsi l’engagement d’Afreximbank à mener des actions de communication à fort impact, qui contribuent à la réalisation de sa mission de promotion du commerce, de l’investissement et de l’industrialisation en Afrique et dans les Caraïbes.

Le prix d’excellence décerné à l’IATF2025 récompense la réussite de la stratégie de communication et d’engagement des parties prenantes mise en œuvre autour de la quatrième édition de la Foire commerciale intra-africaine, principal événement africain consacré au commerce et à l’investissement.  L’IATF2025 a réuni des gouvernements, entreprises, investisseurs, acheteurs, vendeurs et entrepreneurs venus d’Afrique et d’ailleurs, offrant une plateforme de promotion des opportunités commerciales et d’investissement tout en contribuant à la réalisation des objectifs de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf). La campagne de communication a joué un rôle déterminant dans le renforcement de la visibilité mondiale de l’événement, la mobilisation des parties prenantes, la couverture médiatique et l’engagement du public avant, pendant et après la manifestation. Elle a également permis de mettre en lumière l’ampleur, l’ambition et le dynamisme des entreprises africaines, tout en renforçant un récit positif sur la capacité du continent à commercer, à s’industrialiser et à être compétitif à l’échelle mondiale. Plus de 120 000 participants, en présentiel et en ligne, ont pris part à l’IATF2025, au cours de laquelle des transactions d’une valeur supérieure à 49 milliards de dollars US ont été enregistrées.

Le Prix du mérite attribué aux campagnes de médias sociaux d’Afreximbank récompense l’utilisation stratégique des plateformes numériques par la Banque pour mobiliser les parties prenantes, amplifier son impact sur le développement et promouvoir les débats relatifs au commerce, à l’industrialisation, à l’intégration économique et aux opportunités d’investissement en Afrique et dans les Caraïbes. Grâce à une combinaison de récits captivants, de contenus de référence, de plaidoyer de la part des dirigeants, de production multimédia et de couverture d’événements en temps réel, les plateformes de médias sociaux d’Afreximbank ont ​​continué d’étendre leur portée et leur influence auprès des décideurs politiques, des entreprises, des investisseurs, des partenaires au développement et du grand public. Parmi ces plateformes figure Afreximbank TV, une chaîne de télévision numérique détenue et gérée à 100 % par Afreximbank. Afreximbank TV a consacré une couverture dédiée à l’IATF2025, offrant une retransmission en direct des activités à un public panafricain et international.

Anne EZEH, Directrice des Communications et des Événements à Afreximbank, a déclaré : « Nous sommes ravis de recevoir ces deux prix, qui témoignent de l’expertise, de la créativité et de l’efficacité de la communication d’Afreximbank. En tant qu’institution financière multilatérale panafricaine, nous considérons la narration stratégique ‘le storytelling’ comme un outil puissant pour faire progresser notre mission : veiller à ce que nos initiatives, événements, programmes et annonces clés non seulement informent, mais inspirent également confiance, renforcent l’engagement et amplifient la transformation de l’Afrique. Ces prix confortent notre détermination à continuer de proposer une communication d’excellence qui donne la parole aux Africains et projette une image forte et crédible du continent ».

Mme Ezeh a ajouté que, grâce à un récit innovant, à l’engagement numérique et à des campagnes intégrées, la Banque continuera d’amplifier l’impact de ses programmes et partenariats afin de projeter une image plus authentique de l’Afrique, une image marquée par les opportunités, l’innovation, la résilience et une influence croissante dans l’économie mondiale.

Depuis plus de cinquante ans, les IABC Gold Quill Awards récompensent l’excellence en communication stratégique à l’échelle mondiale, saluant les programmes et les campagnes qui témoignent d’un impact mesurable, d’innovation, de créativité et d’une mise en œuvre exceptionnelle. Considérés comme le summum de la réussite dans le domaine de la communication, ces prix sont décernés au terme d’un processus d’évaluation rigoureux et indépendant mené par des experts en communication du monde entier.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable des communications et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2025, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 48,5 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 8,4 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A par GCR, A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et Baa2 par Moody’s. Moody’s (Baa2) et S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte. 

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter www.Afreximbank.com

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Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) Arranges Over EUR 100 Million Financing to Strengthen Food Security in Togo

Source: APO – Report:

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s infrastructure solutions provider, has arranged a EUR 108.3 million sovereign-backed financing facility for the Government of the Republic of Togo to support food security through modernisation of the country’s agricultural sector.

AFC acted as Co-Mandated Lead Arranger and joint financier on the transaction, marking its inaugural sovereign investment in Togo and further expanding its government financing footprint across Africa. The facility reflects AFC’s heightened focus on food security as global supply chain disruptions, climate-related shocks and rising agricultural input costs underscore the importance of strengthening domestic production in the face of rapid population growth, while unlocking the continent’s potential to become a more significant supplier of agricultural produce to regional and international markets.

With a tenor of 10 years, the financing will support the purchase, assembly and distribution of essential agricultural machinery and equipment including 2,126 tractor and trailer sets, 1,020 units of seeding and harvesting equipment, 930 irrigation units, and 95 water supply systems. The programme supports Togo’s national agricultural transformation strategy – Programme de Modernisation de l’Agriculture Togolaise (ProMAT) – aimed at improving productivity, strengthening food security and accelerating the commercialisation of agricultural production.

“Food security has become an increasingly urgent priority for African countries as global supply chains become more volatile and climate-related risks intensify,” said Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of AFC. “This financing demonstrates AFC’s ability to deliver sovereign financing solutions that unlock productivity, strengthen food systems and support long-term economic resilience by supporting Togo’s agricultural modernisation agenda.”

Agriculture remains central to Togo’s economy, employing approximately 60% of the workforce and contributing about 40% of GDP. However, productivity continues to be constrained by limited access to mechanisation, irrigation and modern inputs. Only 37% of agricultural households use fertiliser and 8% use improved seeds, while less than 1% have access to irrigation. Commercialisation levels also remain low, with only around 20% of agricultural output reaching the market.

By directly addressing critical gaps in farm equipment and irrigation infrastructure, the programme is expected to increase yields, improve market access, expand commercialisation, support job creation, and strengthen the resilience of Togo’s agricultural economy.

The transaction further reinforces AFC’s role as a trusted financing partner to African governments, delivering strategic investments across priority sectors. AFC has an established track record in sovereign financing, having recently arranged approximately US$2.5 billion in facilities for sovereign borrowers including Nigeria, Angola, Côte d’Ivoire, and Egypt. These transactions have supported key national institutions such as the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) and the General Authority for Supply Commodities (GASC), enabling investment in critical infrastructure and strategic sectors.

– on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

Media Enquiries:
Yewande Thorpe
Communications
Africa Finance Corporation
Mobile : +234 1 279 9654
Email : yewande.thorpe@africafc.org

About AFC:
AFC was established in 2007 to be the catalyst for pragmatic infrastructure and industrial investments across Africa. AFC’s approach combines specialist industry expertise with a focus on financial and technical advisory, project structuring, project development, and risk capital to address Africa’s infrastructure development needs and drive sustainable economic growth.

Nineteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of energy, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 48 member countries and has invested over US$19 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

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