Africa – Page 5 – MIL Africa Engine

April 10, 2026

Public urged to shape new whistleblower protection law

Source: Government of South Africa

Public urged to shape new whistleblower protection law

Government has called on South Africans to help shape a sweeping new law aimed at protecting whistleblowers.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamaloko Kubayi, on Thursday unveiled the proposed Protected Disclosures Bill in Pretoria, describing it as a “critical intervention” to safeguard individuals who come forward with information on wrongdoing.

But while the Bill introduces far-reaching reforms, Kubayi stressed that it is still a proposal — and its final strength will depend on public input before the 14 May 2026 deadline.

The legislation stems largely from findings of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, which exposed how whistleblowers were often left vulnerable after speaking out.

Kubayi acknowledged that existing protections have fallen short, pointing to cases where whistleblowers were dismissed, financially devastated or even killed. High-profile figures such as Babita Deokaran, Martha Ngoye, Athol Williams and Mpho Mafole were cited as reminders of the risks involved.

“Many whistleblowers are left to navigate complex legal processes without support, often after losing their livelihoods and assets,” Kubayi said.

The Bill seeks to close the gaps by introducing a more comprehensive framework for reporting and protecting disclosures.

Among its key proposals are:

Clear definitions of what constitutes a protected disclosure and harmful retaliation.
Strict confidentiality rules, with criminal penalties for exposing a whistleblower’s identity.
Access to state-backed protection under the Witness Protection Act, 1998, including relocation and security measures.
Legal assistance through Legal Aid South Africa for those who cannot afford representation.
A complaints mechanism overseen by a retired judge.

The Bill also introduces tough penalties – including up to 15 years in prison – for those who retaliate against whistleblowers or conceal evidence.

Employers would carry the burden of proving that any action taken against a whistleblower is unrelated to their disclosure.

To prevent cases from stalling, the proposed law sets strict timelines:

Disclosures must be acknowledged within five days.
Decisions taken within ten days.
Investigations finalised within 12 months.

A central database will track cases to improve accountability, although it will not store identifying details of whistleblowers.

Kubayi emphasised that this is a Bill that is still going to have to go through public participation.

Government has urged civil society, businesses, labour groups and ordinary citizens to submit written comments before the deadline, stressing that public input will directly influence the final legislation. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine
Fri, 04/10/2026 – 11:50

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April 10, 2026

A Nigéria e o Senegal devem seguir o exemplo do Gana e de Moçambique contra as práticas excludentes

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O setor privado africano está a alertar para as políticas da Frontier Energy Network que excluem sistematicamente profissionais e prestadores de serviços africanos de papéis significativos nos principais fóruns sobre energia. Tais práticas excludentes ameaçam décadas de progresso no desenvolvimento energético africano, incluindo a capacitação local, a transferência de conhecimento e a participação económica.

A abordagem da Frontier, apresentada como uma plataforma global para África, é, na prática, um sistema que extrai valor do continente enquanto nega aos africanos as oportunidades de liderar, participar e beneficiar. Marginalizar precisamente as pessoas que constroem, operam e sustentam projetos energéticos não é parceria – é exclusão estrutural disfarçada de oportunidade.

As empresas africanas – particularmente na Nigéria e no Senegal, que impulsionam o crescimento regional – devem reavaliar a sua participação em plataformas que perpetuam estas políticas. O capital, o patrocínio e a presença africanos não podem continuar a legitimar fóruns onde as partes interessadas locais são sistematicamente marginalizadas. O acesso ao mercado deve ser conquistado e mutuamente respeitado.

Moçambique e o Gana já estabeleceram um precedente. Em março de 2026, a indústria petrolífera e do gás de Moçambique retirou-se da Cimeira Africana das Energias em Londres, invocando repetidas falhas por parte dos organizadores em melhorar a diversidade, a transparência e a inclusão de profissionais negros em funções de liderança, contratação e negociação. No início de abril de 2026, a Câmara de Energia do Gana seguiu o exemplo, retirando-se formalmente da mesma cimeira devido a práticas de contratação discriminatórias que marginalizavam profissionais, executivos e prestadores de serviços africanos. Estas ações coordenadas enviam uma mensagem clara: África deixará de apoiar plataformas que negam aos seus talentos o direito de liderar, contribuir e beneficiar.

O padrão de excelência para as empresas prosperarem em África é uma colaboração robusta com parceiros internacionais, ao mesmo tempo que se desenvolve a capacidade local – exemplificado pela empresa de serviços energéticos Alliance Energy, sediada no Senegal. A Alliance promoveu a especialização africana no setor, apoiando nomeadamente o lançamento do Instituto Nacional de Petróleo e Gás no Senegal para formar jovens profissionais para funções de liderança, ao mesmo tempo que apoiou diversas iniciativas energéticas nas áreas da energia elétrica, solar, gás e eólica que reforçam a posição do Senegal como um centro energético regional.

Este sucesso demonstra que as empresas africanas prosperam quando o talento local, a liderança, a contratação e o desenvolvimento da força de trabalho são centrais para a execução, a par de parcerias estratégicas com os EUA, o Reino Unido e a Europa. Qualquer entidade que tente operar em África sem um compromisso com a contratação de profissionais locais ameaça não só o ecossistema que alimentou empresas como a Alliance Energy, mas também a ambição mais ampla do continente de aumentar a capacidade regional, a apropriação e o desenvolvimento de energia sustentável.

«A mensagem é simples», afirma o Dr. Ndjuga Dieng, Diretor-Geral da Alliance Energy. «África não ficará mais de braços cruzados enquanto o seu talento for excluído de oportunidades no seu próprio continente. A Nigéria, o Senegal e todas as nações africanas devem seguir o exemplo do Gana e de Moçambique, opondo-se a plataformas que discriminam. Protejam o vosso povo, as vossas empresas e o vosso futuro energético. A inclusão não é opcional – é a base do crescimento.»

Os mercados energéticos africanos têm historicamente prosperado graças à colaboração, tanto dentro do continente como com parceiros internacionais. Eventos como a Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) e o Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum exemplificam este modelo, integrando executivos africanos, decisores políticos e prestadores de serviços na programação principal, na celebração de acordos e na transferência de conhecimento.

As partes interessadas africanas devem dar prioridade a plataformas que respeitem o conteúdo local, a contratação equitativa e a celebração justa de contratos. A retirada estratégica de eventos excludentes não é isolacionismo – é uma posição de princípio, de lógica económica e em defesa do futuro do setor energético africano. O continente define a sua própria trajetória e só se envolverá com parceiros que reconheçam o talento africano como parte integrante, e não opcional, do futuro da indústria.

A posição defendida pela Alliance Energy está alinhada com uma defesa mais ampla em todo o continente, incluindo a da Câmara Africana de Energia, que tem consistentemente apelado por políticas de conteúdo local mais robustas, práticas contratuais justas e uma maior inclusão de profissionais africanos ao longo da cadeia de valor energético. Este alinhamento destaca um consenso crescente entre os líderes do setor privado africano de que o crescimento sustentável da indústria depende da participação significativa de empresas e talentos locais, e não da sua exclusão.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Energy Chamber.

April 10, 2026

Title deeds bring jubilation to Limpopo community

Source: Government of South Africa

Title deeds bring jubilation to Limpopo community

Today is a day of jubilation for the community of Sebilong, situated just outside Thabazimbi, in Limpopo, as they received their title deeds from Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

All roads led to Thabazimbi on Friday as the community gathered to witness the title deeds handover ceremony. This landmark ceremony represents a significant milestone in advancing land reform efforts aimed at redressing the injustices of historical land dispossession and restoring land rights to rightful beneficiaries.

The Sebilong community successfully lodged their land claim with the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights more than a decade ago.

According to local community members, the Sebilong Land Claim was lodged by Lazasrus Nkale Tisane on behalf of 89 originally dispossessed households totaling 1 071 verified beneficiaries.

The claimed land is Farm Zwartkop 369 KQ which consists of 21 portions located within the Thabazimbi local municipality which is located in the Waterberg District.

After the claim was approved, the CPA opted for both land restoration and financial compensation.

Through the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development, under the leadership of Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso, more than 340 000 hectares of land has been restored to the community.

Community member Anna Tisani told SAnews.gov.za that they have been waiting for this day to come.

“Although we are getting our land back, I am sad because some of the people we started this journey [with] with have passed on, but I am happy that their families are still here and they will enjoy the benefits.

“I am happy that we are finally getting our land back. We waited for too long for our land to be brought back to us,” she said.

Another community member, Mido Moela, told SAnews that they planned to use the land for ploughing to benefit the community.

“We have been waiting for this day to come. We thank all those who led us during the claim process. It was not easy but we made it. Our children are going to benefit from our land,” Moela said.

Young and old came in their numbers to witness the occasion when the Deputy President hands over the title deeds to the successful land claimants.

To date, the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development has settled over 83 721 land claims nationally, resulting in the transfer of approximately 3 916 733 hectares of land.

This progress underscores government’s continued commitment to resolving land claims and facilitating equitable land ownership among affected communities.

The Deputy President is accompanied on the title deed handover by members of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Land Reform and Agriculture, the Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, Members of the Limpopo Provincial Executive Council, leadership of the Waterberg District Municipality and Thabazimbi Local Municipality as well as representatives of the Commission on Restitution of Land Rights.

READ | Mashatile to hand over title deeds in Limpopo land restitution milestone

–SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 04/10/2026 – 10:55

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April 10, 2026

Embryo fossil found in South Africa is world’s oldest proof that mammal ancestors laid eggs

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Julien Benoit, Associate professor in Vertebrate Palaeontology, University of the Witwatersrand

Between 280 and 200 million years ago, a group of animals evolved which would eventually give rise to mammals, including humans: the therapsids. They were first described more than 150 years ago, based on fossils from South Africa. Since then, many more fossils have been discovered.

James Kitching, one of the most talented South African fossil hunters of the 20th century, excavated many thousands of therapsids from the rocks of the Karoo (a semi-arid region of the country’s interior). He also found fossilised dinosaur eggs, but neither he nor any palaeontologist after him ever found therapsid eggs.

They should exist, because some mammals (platypus and echidnas) do lay eggs. But Kitching began to doubt that therapsids laid eggs: perhaps, he thought, they were, like most of their mammalian descendants, already viviparous (giving live birth)?

We are scientists who study extinct animals and the environments they lived in millions of years ago to understand more about the evolution of life. In our new paper we describe, for the first time, the embryo-containing fossilised egg of a 250 million-year-old mammalian ancestor.

It finally shows that therapsids were indeed egg-laying (oviparous). This discovery sheds new light on the reproduction and survival strategy of that group of animals.

The egg about to be synchrotron scanned at the ESRF. Author provided, CC BY

A 20-year-old mystery

The fossil egg and embryo we described was discovered near Oviston, in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, by John Nyaphuli, a palaeontologist from Bloemfontein, in 2008. It’s been kept in the National Museum in Bloemfontein. We knew that it belonged to a species that lived 252 million to 250 million years ago called Lystrosaurus, but we didn’t know whether the species was an egg-layer. The adult looked like a pig, with naked skin, a beak like a turtle, and two tusks sticking out and pointing down.

The reason it took 20 years to prove that it had been in an egg is that this fossil preserves no shell. Only a curled-up embryo is visible. If there was a shell, it was likely leathery or had dissolved. Only the most advanced dinosaurs laid hard-shelled eggs.

So how could we find out whether this young creature had once been inside an egg?

The answer to this question lay in the advanced technology of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility at Grenoble, France. There, we used a powerful X-ray source to image the inside of the bones of the embryo. Under this treatment, the fossil unveiled all its long-kept secrets – most crucially, its stage of development.

3D reconstruction of the embryo based on synchrotron scan performed at the ESRF. Author supplied, CC BY

We discovered that the lower jaws of its beak were not completely fused. This developmental trait is only found in modern turtles and birds in which jaw bones fuse long before they are born so that their beak is strong enough for the hatchling to catch and crush its food.

This meant that our curled up Lystrosaurus embryo had died in ovo (in an egg), tightly nestled in its soft, leathery eggshell. This was the evidence palaeontologists had been looking for.

Thanks to the synchrotron-assisted examination of its lower jaw, we could finally demonstrate that this embryo was indeed that of an unhatched Lystrosaurus baby.

Famous survivor

What does it unravel about the survival strategy of Lystrosaurus?

Lystrosaurus is a herbivorous (plant-eating) therapsid famous for surviving the “Great Dying”, which was a major mass extinction of species 252 million years ago. During this event, 90% of all living things on Earth died. Life almost ceased to exist, which makes this the second most important event in the history of life on Earth after the origin of life itself.

How Lystrosaurus survived this is still an intriguing mystery, but the egg gives a possible clue. The fossil we describe shows that the animal laid arguably large eggs for its body size. Large eggs are produced by species that feed their embryos with yolk rather than milk. The young develop to an advanced stage in the egg and then they hatch. In contrast, monotremes (the platypus and echidnas), which feed milk to their young, lay small eggs because the baby is fed after hatching. The large size of its egg implies that Lystrosaurus did not feed milk to its young.

More relevant to its survival strategy, this further indicates two things. Firstly, it means that the egg was less prone to desiccation (drying out). The larger the egg, the smaller its surface area (comparatively speaking), so Lystrosaurus eggs would lose less water through their leathery shell than those of other species of that time. Given the dry environment during and in the immediate aftermath of the extinction, this was a significant advantage, especially since hard-shelled eggs would not evolve for another 50 million years, at least.

Secondly, a large egg implies that Lystrosaurus was likely precocial, meaning that the babies likely hatched at an advanced stage of their development. Lystrosaurus hatchlings were big enough to feed by themselves and run away from predators, and would reach maturity faster so they could reproduce early.

Growing up fast, reproducing young and proliferating were the secrets of Lystrosaurus survival.

Our ability to identify the fossil egg adds to our understanding of the origin of mammalian reproductive biology and lactation, and the survival strategy of Lystrosaurus in the most devastating biological crisis. This is significant to better grasp how modern species might cope with the current sixth mass extinction of species.

– Embryo fossil found in South Africa is world’s oldest proof that mammal ancestors laid eggs
– https://theconversation.com/embryo-fossil-found-in-south-africa-is-worlds-oldest-proof-that-mammal-ancestors-laid-eggs-277673

April 10, 2026

SARS reminds trusts to file income tax returns

Source: Government of South Africa

SARS reminds trusts to file income tax returns

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has urged all trusts registered in South Africa to submit income tax returns for every year of assessment, in line with legislative requirements.

This obligation applies even where a trust had no economic activity during the relevant year.

“Where a trust is no longer being used for its intended purpose, trustees are encouraged to formally terminate the trust through the Office of the Master of the High Court (Master).

“Once the Master has issued a written confirmation of termination, trustees should request SARS to deregister the trust for income tax purposes. This process assists in preventing the unnecessary imposition of administrative penalties arising from ongoing non-compliance,” SARS said on Thursday.

Although the Trust Property Control Act does not expressly prescribe a deregistration process, the Chief Master issued a directive in 2017 to provide clarity on the procedure to be followed.

Importantly, trustees must first establish and regularise the trust’s tax compliance status with SARS before approaching the Master for termination.

Trustees act as representative taxpayers of a trust in terms of the Income Tax Act and are required to ensure that all outstanding tax returns, payments, and related tax obligations are fully resolved prior to requesting termination at the Master and deregistration at SARS.

In some instances, SARS may owe a trust a tax refund.

“Once a trust has been terminated by the Master, it legally ceases to exist, as does the Office of Trusteeship. In such circumstances, SARS is unable to lawfully process or pay any refunds due to the trust.

“Trustees are therefore urged to follow the correct sequence: first confirm and regularise the trust’s tax affairs with SARS, and only thereafter proceed with termination at the Master.

“This approach safeguards compliance and protects trustees from potential personal liability. This also ensures that any refunds due to the trust can be processed timeously,” SARS said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 04/10/2026 – 11:12

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April 10, 2026

SA committed to resetting diplomatic relations with US

Source: Government of South Africa

SA committed to resetting diplomatic relations with US

While trade relations between South Africa and the United States face several challenges, President Cyril Ramaphosa says the government is committed to rebuilding political and diplomatic relations with the US.

Speaking at the American Chamber of Commerce South Africa Annual General Meeting on Thursday, the President said he has been engaging the new US Ambassador to South Africa, Ambassador Bozell, on efforts to repair the strained diplomatic relations.

“Yesterday, I had the pleasure of receiving the credentials of the new US Ambassador to South Africa, Ambassador Bozell.

“Through the engagements that have taken place since his arrival in the country, I believe we have made progress in developing a common understanding of the issues that continue for the moment to define our relationship,” the President said in Johannesburg.

He added that Ambassador Bozell has made deepening commercial trade between the two countries a priority.

“I understand that the Ambassador wants to double the amount of US companies operating in South Africa. This is an ambition that we wholeheartedly support and that we hope to work together to achieve,” Ramaphosa said.

The President emphasised that South Africa is committed to working with United States businesses to deepen cooperation and open up new opportunities as the government pursues the strategic priority of driving inclusive growth and creating employment.

The United States is a major source of foreign direct investment in South Africa, with more than 600 American companies operating in the country. It is estimated that these companies employ over 250,000 South Africans.

“The US administration has been forthright in its assessment of our trade relations, and we welcome its willingness to engage with South Africa to address concerns. Recently we have had several positive signals from the United States.

“We recently held a critical minerals forum in Washington, with key US government departments and business,” President Ramaphosa said.

South Africa is actively engaged with various committees, both in the House and the Senate, on the renewal of African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).

AGOA is a piece of legislation that was passed by the US Congress in May 2000 to provide eligible sub-Saharan African countries with duty-free access to the US market.

“At the same time, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition remains engaged with the US trade representative.

“We are committed to working together more closely and with greater focus to achieve a trade agreement that is mutually beneficial.

“There is a great deal that we can offer each other and there is no reason why we can’t reach agreement on areas of difference,” he said.

South Africa recenlty held a critical minerals forum in Washington, with key US government departments and business.

“We will continue work to develop a critical minerals framework that can ensure that we continue to be a strategic supplier of critical minerals to the US.

“At the same time, we want to develop collaborative programmes that increase investment in this important sector in our economy,” he said.

Economic renewal

South Africa stands at a juncture of economic renewal as government implements structural reforms to rebuild the economy.

The President said these efforts are bearing fruit.

“Electricity supply has stabilised and Eskom has been returned to operational viability. Together with market reforms and substantial private investment in renewable energy, we are laying the foundation for a competitive energy market that will reduce costs for households and businesses.

“Through Operation Vulindlela, we have seen improvements in the efficiency of our ports, and we are enabling access to our freight rail for private operators,” Ramaphosa said.

There has been a decline in the cost of broadband data alongside an improvement in access.

“Far-reaching changes to our visa regime will enable the country to attract greater investment, skills and tourism. We have embarked on a second phase of Operation Vulindlela, focusing on local government, digital transformation and reducing spatial inequality.

“A particular area of focus now is on ensuring reliable access to water for households, businesses and agriculture,” the President said.

Through a National Water Crisis Committee, government is undertaking interventions to transform the provision and management of water services across the country.

“Our commitment to macroeconomic stability and prudent fiscal management has resulted in the stabilisation of public finances and has seen our sovereign risk profile improve.

“We are reforming our criminal justice system and tackling crime and corruption, so that businesses can invest and operate without fear.

“We are establishing a new criminal justice reform initiative modelled on the success of Operation Vulindlela, which will focus on combating organised crime, corruption, the illicit economy and illegal firearms,” he said.

Furthermore, government has allocated more than R3 trillion over the next three years to modernise and expand public infrastructure across South Africa.

This includes massive investment in roads, railways, ports, dams, energy generation and transmission, as well as housing.

“We remain committed to the transformation of our economy to drive sustained growth, reduce inequality and correct the injustices of the past,” the President said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle
Fri, 04/10/2026 – 10:57

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April 10, 2026

Sheraton Nouakchott Marque l’entree de Marriott International en Mauritanie

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, enseigne emblématique du portefeuille Marriott Bonvoy (www.Marriott.com) fort de plus de 30 marques hôtelières, a récemment célébré l’ouverture du Sheraton Nouakchott Hotel (https://apo-opa.co/4t3YGO4), marquant ainsi l’entrée de Marriott International sur un nouveau territoire : la Mauritanie. Depuis son ouverture, le Sheraton Nouakchott s’est imposé comme un nouveau lieu de référence pour les voyages d’affaires, les événements et les séjours de loisirs dans la capitale mauritanienne.

Capitale de la Mauritanie, Nouakchott est une ville côtière où tradition et modernité se rencontrent. Nichée entre l’immensité du Sahara et l’océan Atlantique, elle constitue une porte d’entrée vers les paysages naturels spectaculaires du pays, entre dunes dorées, oasis paisibles, côtes sauvages et vastes étendues désertiques préservées. Cœur culturel et économique de la Mauritanie, Nouakchott offre aux visiteurs un aperçu de la beauté sereine et du riche patrimoine qui caractérisent cette nation remarquable d’Afrique du Nord-Ouest.

Idéalement situé à proximité de sites emblématiques tels que le Marché Capitale et le Musée national de Mauritanie, ainsi que des plages et du port de pêche de Nouakchott — et à quelques minutes seulement du désert — le Sheraton Nouakchott constitue un point de départ idéal pour découvrir la destination.

« Nous sommes fiers d’introduire Marriott International en Mauritanie avec l’ouverture du Sheraton Nouakchott, premier hôtel de marque internationale dans le pays. Depuis l’accueil de nos premiers clients, l’hôtel s’est rapidement affirmé comme une destination prisée tant par les voyageurs que par la communauté locale. Cette étape majeure illustre notre engagement à offrir des expériences d’hospitalité d’exception sur les marchés émergents, tout en célébrant la culture et l’identité uniques de chaque destination », déclare Sandra Schulze‑Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Moyen‑Orient & Afrique, Marriott International.

Une inspiration locale au cœur du design

Les savoir‑faire traditionnels, du travail du bois à la ferronnerie, sont intégrés dans les matériaux et le mobilier de l’hôtel, créant des espaces à la fois ancrés dans la culture locale et résolument élégants. Chaque détail raconte une histoire d’artisanat, de patrimoine et de territoire, offrant aux hôtes une expérience immersive inspirée par la richesse culturelle et naturelle de la Mauritanie.

Inspiré par les sites légendaires de l’ancienne route transsaharienne, le design de l’hôtel associe héritage régional et élégance contemporaine. Le plafond circulaire du restaurant Feast s’inspire de la Structure de Richat, également connue sous le nom d’Œil de l’Afrique. Les tons terreux et les matériaux organiques évoquent les paysages spectaculaires des montagnes de l’Adrar, tandis que des motifs inspirés de Chinguetti et d’Oualata sont réinterprétés dans les chambres, les espaces publics et le restaurant Bene.

Les espaces de réunion font écho à l’architecture en pierre de Tichitt, l’une des plus anciennes villes d’Afrique de l’Ouest et ancien carrefour des caravanes.

Chambres et suites au charme local

Le Sheraton Nouakchott propose 200 chambres et suites spacieuses, dont deux suites présidentielles, alliant confort contemporain et touches locales subtiles. Toutes les chambres sont dotées des technologies les plus récentes et des équipements signature Sheraton, dont l’emblématique Sheraton Sleep Experience.

Le Sheraton Club offre aux membres Elite Marriott Bonvoy et aux clients Club une expérience privilégiée tout au long de la journée, avec une sélection soignée de mets et boissons, des prestations haut de gamme, une connectivité renforcée et un environnement privé propice aussi bien au travail qu’à la détente.

Saveurs locales et influences internationales

L’hôtel dispose de deux restaurants, d’un Lobby Bar et d’un Pool Bar. Feast, le restaurant ouvert toute la journée, propose une cuisine locale et internationale élaborée à partir de produits de saison. Bene offre une expérience culinaire italienne immersive dans un cadre chaleureux et convivial. Le Lobby Bar est un lieu de rencontre décontracté, du café du matin aux rendez‑vous en soirée, tandis que le Pool Bar propose des boissons rafraîchissantes et des encas légers au bord de la piscine extérieure.

Des installations dignes d’un resort au cœur de la ville

Malgré sa situation en centre‑ville, le Sheraton Nouakchott offre une véritable atmosphère de resort, articulée autour d’une vaste piscine extérieure. Les clients peuvent poursuivre leurs routines sportives au centre de fitness entièrement équipé — comprenant des espaces séparés pour femmes et hommes, un hammam et un sauna — ou profiter du court de tennis extérieur. Le Sheraton Spa dispose de trois salles de soins, offrant un havre de paix après une journée de découverte ou de réunions.

Réunions et événements sur mesure

Le Sheraton Nouakchott propose plus de 2 600 m² d’espaces modulables dédiés aux réunions et événements, incluant un Grand Ballroom, une salle de bal et quatre salles de réunion supplémentaires. Une Sheraton Community Table, emblème de la marque, se trouve au cœur de l’hôtel et offre un espace convivial pour réunions informelles, travail à distance et échanges collaboratifs. Une équipe événementielle dédiée assure une exécution fluide, de la conception à la réalisation.

Gatherings by Sheraton

Conformément à l’approche communautaire globale de la marque, le Sheraton Nouakchott propose Gatherings by Sheraton, des expériences hebdomadaires soigneusement orchestrées autour du partage, du bien‑être et des histoires locales. Les clients et les habitants peuvent participer à des ateliers de mixologie mauritanienne à base de thé à la menthe et de fruits locaux, ou à des soirées de contes inspirées des traditions sahariennes.

Distribué par APO Group pour Marriott International, Inc..

Pour télécharger des visuels : https://apo-opa.co/4sv3jj5

Press contacts :
Aurélie Csegezi
Senior Director of Communications
Western Europe & Northwest Africa
Aurelie.csegezi@marriott.com

Arnaud Houitte
PR Manager
Western Europe & Maghreb
Arnaud.houitte@marriott.com

À propos de Sheraton® Hotels & Resorts :
Sheraton Hotels & Resorts permet aux voyageurs de se sentir facilement les bienvenus dans plus de 430 hôtels et resorts répartis dans 70 pays et territoires à travers le monde. Première marque véritablement mondiale du portefeuille de marques hôtelières d’exception de Marriott Bonvoy, implantée au cœur de centaines de communautés à l’échelle internationale, Sheraton possède un riche héritage dans la création d’un sentiment d’appartenance pour ses clients, où qu’ils se trouvent dans le monde.

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Media files

April 10, 2026

President Ramaphosa appoints Judges of the Constitutional Court

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of section 174(4) of the Constitution appointed Justice Nambitha Christabel Dambuza-Mayosi and Justice Katharine Mary Savage as Judges of the Constitutional Court with effect from 1 May 2026.

As directed by the Constitution, President Ramaphosa has made these appointments after consultation with Chief Justice Mandisa Maya and leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.

Justice Dambuza-Mayosi currently serves as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal – a position she has held since June 2015 and which included an extended period of acting as President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

Justice Dambuza-Mayosi’s career spans more than three decades in legal practice, academia and the judiciary.

Justice Savage became a Judge of the Western Cape High Court in 2015 and has served as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court since 2024.

President Ramaphosa wishes the new judges of South Africa’s apex court well in their new roles.

The President said: “Judge Dambuza-Mayosi and Judge Savage have for decades served the cause and practice of justice with great diligence, foresight and, most importantly, clear commitment to our Constitution.

“They join the Constitutional Court in the year in which we mark 30 years since the adoption of our democratic Constitution. This anniversary is a significant moment for our nation and serves as an inspiration for our Constitutional Court to sustain the entrenchment of our national values and the supreme law that underpins them.”

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

April 10, 2026

Deputy President Mashatile to launch Gert Sibande TVET College 4IR Lab and Centre of Specialisation

Source: President of South Africa –

The Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council, Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, officially launch the Gert Sibande TVET College 4IR LAB and Centre of Specialisation Millwright Workshop in the Mpumalanga Province.

The launch represents a significant milestone in Government’s efforts of advancing skills development in line with the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

The initiative also highlights the Gert Sibande TVET College’s commitment to equipping students with future-ready technical and artisan skills, while strengthening industry partnerships and contributing to South Africa’s economic growth.

This initiative is supported by a number of key partners including SASOL, National Skills Fund and Festo, reflecting a collaborative effort to enhance vocational education and training in South Africa.

Deputy President Mashatile will be joined by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr Buti Manamela, Acting College Principal, Ms ZZ Beku; the District and Local Municipality Mayors as well as senior government officials.

Details of the launch are as follows:
Date: Tuesday, 14 April 2026
Time: 10h00 (Media to arrive for set up at 09h00)
Venue: Skills Academy and Artisan Development Centre, Standerton in the Gert Sibande District Municipality, Mpumalanga Province

Media wishing to cover the launch are requested to RSVP with Mr Oscar Kubeka on 072 079 6796 or Kubeka.o@gscollege.edu.za.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

April 10, 2026

Pope Leo’s visit to Africa: theology scholar outlines 3 realities the Catholic church must face

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Stan Chu Ilo, Research Professor, World Christianity and African Studies, DePaul University

Pope Leo’s decision to make Africa one of the early destinations of his young papacy signals the continent’s importance in global Catholicism. His April 2026 visit reflects both his personal ties to Africa and the rapid rise of Christianity across the continent.

His 10-day itinerary to Algeria, Angola, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea is also historically significant. In Algeria, for instance, Pope Leo will walk in the footsteps of Augustine of Hippo (who lived around the year 400), his spiritual father, highlighting the African roots of Christianity.

But when the pope announced his Africa trip in February 2026, few could have anticipated how rapidly the global security landscape would deteriorate. There is a real risk that ongoing global crises, such as the conflict in Iran, will dominate attention, overshadowing both the significance of Pope Leo’s visit and the persistent, often overlooked, conflicts across Africa.

The last papal visit to Africa – by his predecessor, Pope Francis, in 2023 to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan – was similarly intended to draw attention to Africa’s enduring wars. Vast refugee settlements across the continent stand as stark reminders of lives suspended in uncertainty and suffering.

I am an African theologian and my work examines how contemporary Catholicism is changing. My research goes beyond tracking the demographics of Christian expansion. It asks how Christian communities, rooted in diverse cultures, are transforming societies and cultures in line with the Gospel.

By choosing to visit Africa now, Pope Leo is making a clear statement: Africa matters. The Catholic church on the continent can seize this moment to build more equal, non-patronising partnerships with churches in the global north, where membership is declining.

Christianity’s African roots

Christianity is not a recent import to Africa brought by European missionaries. The continent has long provided deep cultural, spiritual and theological roots for Christianity. This includes Joseph and Mary’s flight into Egypt when the life of Jesus was threatened by Herod after his birth, and the catechetical school of Alexandria, the world’s oldest centre of Christian higher learning.

Pope Leo’s visit offers a powerful historical reminder of the continent’s foundational role in shaping the church, particularly in its first five centuries.

Additionally, Africa is home to the fastest-growing Catholic population, now estimated at 280 million Catholics, or 19.8% of the world’s Catholic population. In 2025 alone, the African Catholic church had 8.3 million new members.

Africa contributes significantly to the church’s global human capital. Nigeria, South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo are among the top 10 “sending nations” in the missionary exchange from the global south to the global north.

Pope Paul VI was the first modern pope to visit Africa, in 1969. He said the time had come for Africa to have “an African Christianity”.

Many African Catholics see this speech as an invitation to Africans to take responsibility for making Christianity truly Catholic and truly African.

Pope John Paul II later, in 1995, affirmed that the “hour of Africa” had come. Pope Benedict XVI, during his 2009 visit to Africa, described the continent as a “spiritual lung” for a world in crisis.

These expressions signal a shared conviction: the church in Africa has come of age and stands as a major spiritual force in the contemporary expansion of global Christianity.

Some challenges persist

Pope Leo is no stranger to the continent. He visited several African countries during his two terms as the global head of the Order of St Augustine, headquartered in Rome.

However, he will encounter a persistent and troubling paradox that marks both the church and wider society. The rapid growth of Christianity has not consistently translated into better lives for people. If the church is to remain relevant, it must more convincingly embody the Gospel’s transformative power within the lived realities of African societies.

It needs to address the fluid religious imagination of many African Christians who easily migrate from mainline Christian groups like Catholicism to Pentecostalism and African traditional religion. This means the Catholic church needs a moment of self-introspection to ask if it is really meeting the people at their points of need. Is it a church that bears the narratives and wounds of the people?

Without addressing the deeper crisis of faith and the battle for survival in Africa by so many believers walking in poverty, the church risks becoming a provider of charitable services. It could instead be a force for deeper social transformation, religious and moral conversion, and spiritual renewal.

Pope Leo’s visit also unfolds within politically sensitive contexts.

In Cameroon, the long-running conflict in Anglophone regions and President Paul Biya’s long rule have raised concerns. A papal visit could be interpreted as legitimising power structures that many see as repressive. Biya’s decades in power have been associated with electoral manipulation, repression of dissent and state capture.

Similar tensions exist in Equatorial Guinea. President Teodoro Obiang has been in power for 47 years. His rule has been marked by the suppression of the opposition in an oil-rich yet deeply unequal nation.

The image of two long-serving rulers standing with Pope Leo will be striking. It will raise questions. But it will also create an opportunity for the pope to speak some hard truths to leaders who are destroying Africa.

By contrast, Angola offers a more hopeful narrative of post-conflict recovery. It demonstrates how collaboration between the church, state and civil society can yield gradual but meaningful progress.

Africa and the future of a listening church

For all that was said about Pope Francis’ love for Africa, it remains striking that, by his death in April 2025, no African cardinal headed a dicastery (a ministry-level department of the central administration of the Catholic church in Rome).

Africans accounted for barely 12% of the College of Cardinals. Its members are the closest advisors of the pope and choose new popes.

Pope Leo has already begun to address this imbalance in key commissions and administrative structures by appointing Africans to positions of real influence.

One of the most notable traits attributed to him is his capacity to listen. In my view, this listening must confront three interrelated realities if the church in Africa is to become a credible agent of transformation.

Dependency: Parishes and pastoral programmes in Africa still depend on financial support from Europe and North America. This is a major obstacle to the emergence of a mature and self-sustaining African Christianity. The church risks reproducing asymmetrical power dynamics that weaken human agency and pastoral creativity.

Decolonisation: Inherited church structures and theological frameworks should be interrogated. Without this, the church won’t be rooted in the lived experiences and realities of African peoples.

Leadership: The crisis of leadership in Africa is mirrored within the church. What is needed is a transformational, humble and servant leadership grounded in accountability, transparency and shared responsibility. This means greater inclusion of the voices and assets of the laity, especially of women.

Pope Leo’s visit is a key moment for the Catholic Church in Africa. Will it remain a recipient of global Catholicism or help shape its future?

– Pope Leo’s visit to Africa: theology scholar outlines 3 realities the Catholic church must face
– https://theconversation.com/pope-leos-visit-to-africa-theology-scholar-outlines-3-realities-the-catholic-church-must-face-280069