Category: Africa

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Rasha Kelej meets The First Lady of Nigeria & 6 African First Ladies of Africa at the 12th Africa Asia Luminary 2025 in The Gambia

Source: APO

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

Dr. Rasha Kelej said, “I was delighted to meet my dear sister, H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’, at our 12th Africa Asia Luminary 2025. We discussed our joint programs to build and advance healthcare capacity by providing scholarships for local Nigerian doctors. I am proud to share that till now we have provided 82 scholarships for local Nigerian healthcare providers in many critical and underserved specialties like Fertility, Embryology, Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women’s Health, Oncology, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Psychiatry, Care for Older Person and Pain Management. Together, we will continue to work closely to transform future of patient care in Nigeria.”

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ emphasized, “I deeply value our meaningful partnership with Merck Foundation and also appreciate all their programs. I am particularly excited about Educating Linda Program through which we will be providing annual scholarships to 71 of our top-performing but under privileged schoolgirls in secondary school until their graduation. I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations, this is one of the key objectives of my office’s strategy. Moreover, I am happy to share that Merck Foundation has provided 82 scholarships for our healthcare providers, in many critical specialties.”

Watch the Video of The First Lady of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Day 2 of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/49FzuVy

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’: https://apo-opa.co/4jPtoXm

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

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

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

Together with Nigeria First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 82 scholarships for local doctors in Nigeria in many critical and underserved specialties. Summary of 82 scholarships:

  • 14 Scholarships have been provided for Fertility, Embryology and one year diploma and two-year master degree in Sexual and Reproductive Care, Women’s Health and Family Medicine. These scholarships are very critical for enhancing women’s health in general, and reproductive health in particular.
  • 39 scholarships are being provided one year diploma and two-year master degree of Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Cardiology and Obesity & Weight Management, under the Merck Foundation Nationwide Diabetes Blue Points Program. Upon completing the course, these doctors can establish diabetes or hypertension clinics within their respective health centers or hospitals, which will enable them to provide essential care, helping to prevent and manage these conditions within their own communities.
  • 3 scholarships have been provided for Oncology Research, Medical Oncology and Pain Management, as part of Merck Foundation Cancer Access Program.
  • Moreover, 26 scholarships have been provided for Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Dermatology, Rheumatology, Critical Care, Dermatology, Infectious Diseases, Psychiatry, and Care for Older Person.

“Merck Foundation has always believed in the importance of building healthcare capacity and has been working for it since 2012. We have so far provided more than 2400 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties. We will continue to provide scholarships of doctors from Nigeria and beyond,” added Dr. Kelej.

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

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

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

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/4a2Lba5), X (http://apo-opa.co/4jOuhiE), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4jSgOGO), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4a14Yqq).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/49B55HK), X (http://apo-opa.co/49vUnDV), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/49M82FA), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4sQ5qPC).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4a1OjD3

Summarizing Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact:

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

  • 2400+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for healthcare providers from 52 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

  • 3700+ Media Representatives from more than 35 countries trained by Merck Foundation to better raise awareness about different social and health issues
  • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best Media coverage, Song, Films, and Fashion.
  • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa
  • 9 Children’s Storybooks in four languages – English, French, Portuguese, and Swahili
  • 6 Awareness Animation Films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education and prevention and early detection of Diabetes, Hypertension & Cancer.
  • Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community
  • 1200+ Scholarships provided annually to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls from 18 countries, to help them to complete their studies and empower them to reach their full potential
  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard!
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/4a2Lba5 
X: http://apo-opa.co/4jOuhiE     
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/4a14Yqq  
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4jSgOGO   
Threads: http://apo-opa.co/3LrIk1c 
Flickr: http://apo-opa.co/3LLQhhD 
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com 
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4qC86PE

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 (http://apo-opa.co/4a2Lba5), X (http://apo-opa.co/4jOuhiE), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4jSgOGO), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4a14Yqq), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/3LrIk1c) and Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3LLQhhD).

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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Fighting climate change in the Sahel is worsening conflicts – new research shows how

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Folahanmi Aina, Lecturer in Political Economy of Violence, Conflict and Development, SOAS, University of London

The Sahel, the semi-arid African region stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Red Sea in the east, has become the epicentre of global terrorism, given the high number of attacks by armed groups and the resulting fatalities, including those suffered by civilians. This development is rooted in a complex interplay of factors. They include state fragility, illicit economies, limited presence of government in rural areas, and conflicts driven by resource scarcity due to climate shocks.

I am a political scientist with regional expertise in conflict, security and development in west Africa. In a recent policy brief for a research programme, I set out how climate change mitigation efforts in Sahelian communities have intensified pre-existing tensions.

The research involved extensive fieldwork and interviews in July and August 2025 with community members in Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Nigeria. The aim was to understand the interaction between various pressure points and crises playing out in their lives.

Livelihoods are under pressure as a result of climate change. Resources are scarce and unevenly allocated. Governance structures are weak and armed groups compete for control.

The findings were clear: climate action can either exacerbate or alleviate crises.

Many climate mitigation efforts are large-scale projects, like building solar farms, extensive reforestation initiatives, or bio-fuel plantations. The Great Green Wall initiative and the Agriculture Climate Resilient Value Chain Development Project in Niger are examples.

These projects are deemed vital for reducing carbon footprints. But carrying them out in fragile states poses a risk. In the Sahel, misconceived environmental security policymaking can have adverse impacts and even fuel the very insecurity it aims to prevent. Top-down approach objectives can be at odds with local social and ecological realities.

I conclude from my findings that the United Nations’ approach to climate change mitigation in the Sahel requires a re-evaluation. What’s needed are adaptation interventions that are:

  • conflict-sensitive

  • community-led and context-specific

  • designed using a transboundary process. This is because interventions are capable of shaping political economies, security arrangements and community relations across borders, not just within them.

A fragile environment

My research confirms that climate change in Sahelian communities has intensified pre-existing tensions. These include:

Insecurity: Local populations are exposed to conflicts that are made worse by climate-induced pressures. This includes farmer-herder disputes over diminishing grazing land, intercommunal clashes for access to scarce water resources, and ethno-religious tensions aggravated by competition over livelihood opportunities.

Interviews conducted with farmers, pastoralists and community heads, among others, highlighted how shifts in rainfall patterns, long droughts and unpredictable harvests are directly undermining livelihoods. People are being forced into daily coping strategies that sometimes heighten local conflicts.

State fragility: Interviews with key informants, including local vigilantes, paint a picture of governments’ inability to provide security, deliver basic services or mediate rising disputes.

As a result communities have been forced to find alternative forms of governance and protection. These include local vigilante groups, traditional community elders and informal resource management committees.

Criminal networks: Climate vulnerability and state fragility have created an environment that allows violent extremist organisations to operate and expand their influence. These groups range from armed bandits to violent extremist organisations such as Boko Haram and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). They are not merely a result of ideology. They are consequences of a system in distress. They strategically exploit the insecurities and grievances that climate change and state fragility have created.

A Malian community leader put it perfectly. He warned that if a community

becomes a dry land … the armed group can use this opportunity to install themselves.

Towards a conflict-sensitive approach

Statements from people interviewed reflect simple, yet profound, solutions.

The central message is the need for local ownership and community involvement.

A traditional ruler from Burkina Faso, for instance, insisted that:

if projects come, they must include the community from the beginning, to ensure people feel respected, build trust, and ensure that solutions respond to real needs.

A respondent in Nigeria, too, said that “when the locals engage with government many solutions come aboard”. In Niger, a local actor stressed the need to “involve the population more in the decision-making process concerning them”.

These comments point to policy directives. They argue for a departure from the top-down, expert-driven model of development.

For climate change mitigation to be a force for peace, it must be integrated with peacebuilding and state-building efforts. Involving local authorities and community-level institutions in making decisions can lead to interventions that are context-sensitive, legitimate and responsive to local realities.

This translates to linking climate finance to projects that provide not only renewable energy infrastructure but also schools, health centres and sustainable livelihoods. It means transparent, community-led dialogue to resolve conflicts before they escalate across the Sahel region.

Next steps

The Sahel’s plight is a powerful lesson for the global community. The interconnectedness of climate change, state fragility and conflict is a complex adaptive system. It cannot be solved with single-sector interventions. The challenges are too intertwined, and the stakes are too high.

International development and climate policy must shift. Climate change mitigation is not a technical exercise, but an opportunity to rebuild broken social contracts, foster community resilience and promote equitable development.

Addressing root causes instead of symptoms can turn a vicious cycle of fragility into one of peace and development.

– Fighting climate change in the Sahel is worsening conflicts – new research shows how
– https://theconversation.com/fighting-climate-change-in-the-sahel-is-worsening-conflicts-new-research-shows-how-273673

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President Herminie Strengthens Seychelles–South Africa Strategic Partnership

Source: APO


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The President of the Republic, Dr. Patrick Herminie, today held high-level discussions with the High Commissioner of the Republic of South Africa, Dr. Hlamalani Manzini, at State House, as part of the President’s active diplomatic agenda. The engagement formed part of Seychelles’ broader efforts to strengthen bilateral partnerships across the African continent and underscored the Government’s intent to deepen cooperation with South Africa in priority sectors of mutual interest

During the engagement, the President emphasised the longstanding partnership between Seychelles and South Africa, grounded in shared values and a common African outlook. Discussions advanced practical avenues for cooperation across strategic areas of mutual interest, particularly trade and investment, sustainable development, public health, and multilateral cooperation.

On trade, both sides acknowledged the positive trajectory of bilateral trade, economic exchanges and expressed a shared commitment to further enhancing trade volumes and diversification. In the area of investment, while noting South Africa’s existing footprint in Seychelles, particularly in the hospitality and property sectors, discussions highlighted new opportunities for collaboration, notably in eco-tourism and sustainable development on smaller islands, where environmental preservation remains a priority for both countries.

Public health cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. The President underscored the importance of sharing expertise, technical knowledge, and human resources to strengthen health systems and improve outcomes for citizens of both countries.

The two sides further exchanged views on shared challenges, including combating drug abuse, and ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children. They agreed on the need for continued collaboration among relevant authorities to address these issues effectively.

At the multilateral level, the meeting emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in navigating current geopolitical challenges. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to supporting one another within regional and international fora.

Discussions also underscored the role of small and medium-sized enterprises as drivers of economic resilience and inclusive growth. In this regard, consideration was given to the organisation of outward business missions to facilitate exchanges between small businesses in South Africa and their counterparts in Seychelles and the wider region.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Justice Committee Chairperson Condemns Shooting at Booysens Court

Source: APO


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The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, has noted with grave concern and deep sadness the shooting incident earlier today outside the Booysens Magistrate’s Court, which resulted in the deaths of two people.

Mr Nqola emphasised that safety and security in and around court facilities must be treated as an absolute priority. “Safety in and at our courts is non-negotiable. No member of the public or any official should ever fear accessing justice in our country,” the Chairperson said.

Reports indicate that three other individuals were wounded during the incident outside the court.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those who lost their lives today. While we strongly condemn this senseless act of violence, we call on all law enforcement agencies to work together to ensure that all necessary measures are implemented to safeguard court users and personnel. We also wish those who were injured a speedy recovery,” Mr Nqola said.

The Chairperson further noted that during previous oversight visits, the committee raised concerns regarding security shortcomings at some court facilities, including non-functioning security scanners at court entrances. “We therefore call on the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, in conjunction with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, to ensure that all safety protocols are strictly adhered to and fully implemented at all courts,” he said.

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MR XOLA NQOLA.

For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact the committee’s Media Officer:
Name: Rajaa Azzakani (Ms)
Cell: 081 703 9542
E-mail: razzakani@parliament.gov.za

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

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President Dr. Patrick Herminie Meets Rotary Club Leadership to Advance Community Initiatives

Source: APO


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During a courtesy meeting at State House today, Tuesday 20th January, the President of the Republic Dr. Patrick Herminie engaged with representatives of the Rotary Club, a civil society organisation, on matters relating to road safety and awareness, public health, and the contribution of volunteer-based organisations to community development. 

The meeting, spearheaded by District Governor Mr. Bernard Leong Son from Mauritius, provided an opportunity for the Rotary Club delegation to brief the President on the organisation’s activities, projects, and ongoing initiatives across Seychelles, particularly in the areas of community development.

Mr. Leong Son emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration to support initiatives that address community needs, highlighting that the government cannot tackle every challenge on its own.

One of the key projects discussed involves public health, specifically raising awareness on cancer. “There is a lot being done regarding cancer, but in the majority of cases, the public is not aware of these efforts, hence the need for awareness campaigns,” said Mr. Leong Son.

President Herminie welcomed this initiative and commended the Rotary Club for its sustained contribution to national development and humanitarian action. He underlined the value of strong collaboration between government and civic organisations in addressing social challenges whilst enhancing social cohesion.

President Herminie noted that cancer is among the top three causes of death in Seychelles, with prostate cancer being most prevalent among men and breast cancer among women.

“There must be reasons behind these patterns, and further studies should be conducted. Awareness campaigns will play an important role in complementing what we already know,” President Herminie said.

The President also shared his perspective on public health, stressing the importance of prevention. “As a government, we are placing strong emphasis on prevention. This is why I chose a professional career in public health. Great medicine is about caring for the community. Many diseases, such as cardiovascular conditions and diabetes, are linked to lifestyle factors. 

Given Rotary’s international reach, Mr. Leong Son mentioned that qualified doctors from India would be brought in to support the public health campaign.

Road traffic safety and awareness was another area highlighted for collaboration.

The Head of State noted that road accidents remain a major concern in Seychelles, particularly among young people. “We are currently running the Arrive Alive Campaign, but we have recently recorded fatal cases most of which involved young people. We must continuously rethink our approach to address this situation,” he said.

The District Governor was accompanied by Ms. Foram Varsani, Mr. Ranjan Orphee, Mr. Raymond Brioche, Mr. Georges Bibi, Mr. Carl Gendron, and Ms. Angèle Low-Sauzier.

The courtesy call concluded with an exchange of views on potential avenues for continued cooperation and a renewed commitment to follow up on the projects discussed.

In Seychelles, Rotary’s presence is anchored by the Rotary Club of Victoria, which has been serving the community since it was chartered on 27 June 1969. The club was established by local visionaries with support from the Rotary Club of Mombasa and has grown into a key civic organisation dedicated to humanitarian service, community development, education, health, and environmental projects.

Over the years, the club has implemented numerous initiatives — from supporting palliative care training and educational resources to environmental conservation and health programmes — embodying Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self.” Seychelles is part of Rotary International District 9220, which also includes Mauritius, Réunion, Madagascar, Mayotte, Djibouti, and Comoros.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Investment in science, technology and innovation key to development

Source: Government of South Africa

Investment in science, technology and innovation key to development

No country can expect to reach its development goals without investing in its science, technology and innovation (STI) capabilities. 

This is according to the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Blade Nzimande, during his speech at this year’s Basic Education Sector Lekgotla, which began today in Benoni, Gauteng.

“As part of enhancing our country’s ability to respond to our historical and contemporary challenges, over the past three decades, we have made significant investments with the view of strengthening our country’s STI capabilities.” 

He told delegates that South Africa possesses the largest public science system in Africa, which is backed by institutions such as the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), the National Research Foundation (NRF), and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA).

He said the country hosts two of the world’s largest scientific instruments – the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) – noting that the SKA has also been used to support maths and science education in rural areas such as Carnarvon in the Northern Cape.

The Minister also highlighted the Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) facility at Steve Biko Hospital, which supports drug development, clinical research and advanced diagnostics for diseases including cancer and tuberculosis.

“Why am I sharing all this with you? To make the point that one of the reasons why our country is an emerging global leader in the science domains I have mentioned is because of the basic training in maths and science that our young people receive through our public education system.” 

The Minister emphasised the importance of establishing a future-proof education system, especially as the world navigates one of the most unpredictable periods in human history.

He stated that this is marked by armed conflicts, the threat of pandemics, economic and digital inequality, climate change, biodiversity loss, disruptive technologies, and an increasing threat to multilateralism.

“All these challenges have made the future of humanity increasingly uncertain and have forced us to rethink not only the kind of economic systems we would need to build a shared future for humanity, but also what kind of knowledge and skills we would need to realise such a future.” 

In response, he stated that the country’s Decadal Plan for Science, Technology, and Innovation (2022-2032) promotes a future-ready education.

“By this, we do not mean the kind of education that only anticipates the future, but also one that shapes it.”

He believes that education should emphasise digital and future skills for young people, particularly in emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and the creation of digital solutions.

“Equally important is the need to complement classroom-based instruction with extracurricular activities that stretch their minds and provide learners with a platform to put into practice the core scientific principles from the classroom in problem-solving scenarios.”

The department is rolling out several initiatives aimed at future-proofing education by equipping learners with digital and future skills, the Minister said.

These include support for STEM Olympiads that allow learners to engage directly with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), while building analytical and problem-solving skills. 

At the national level, the programmes are led by the South African Mathematics Foundation and the Eskom Expo, which run initiatives such as the South African Maths Olympiad and the International Science Fair.

The Minister said the department would continue supporting these efforts, with a growing focus on grassroots coaching and mentoring, as well as introducing maths and science at the early childhood development level to address long-standing fears around these subjects.

He cited concerns raised by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube that only 34% of 2025 matric candidates wrote mathematics, and highlighted practical interventions, including support to a KwaZulu-Natal primary school whose learners recently placed second in a coding and robotics competition. 

He also raised the possibility of a special programme to help underperforming matric learners obtain their certificates and prepare for further study.

“I believe that as government and as a country, we must demonstrate a greater appreciation for the role and contribution of our educators.” – SAnews.gov.za

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Public called to share ideas for 2026 Budget

Source: Government of South Africa

Public called to share ideas for 2026 Budget

The Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, has encouraged South Africans to share their suggestions on the 2026 Budget. 

The National Budget seeks to maintain a balance between South Africa’s fiscal framework, fund the priorities of the seventh administration, while mitigating the funding requirements impact on the poor and the middle-income household.

It aims to strike a balance between growing the economy and supporting the vulnerable amid limited resources. 

The Minister will deliver the National Budget Speech on 25 February 2026, where he will outline all the financial, economic and social commitments government will prioritise in its planned expenditure.

People may submit views on government spending priorities; addressing a large budget deficit; stabilising State-owned entity finances; energy and water investments; tax policies; debt sustainability; municipal finances and any other economy-related topics.

“Minister Godongwana looks forward to your contributions,” National Treasury said on Tuesday.

Submissions can be sent to National Treasury using this link for Budget Tips: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=jzRFGrQCmk-nqHeG9t0yRTqZ86WzI7JHvRvFVz0vJUhUM1FHWEc0MU1GWjc0RFhHQTNZVEQwM0Y5RS4u&route=shorturl.

The public is advised to keep contributions concise and to the point, not longer than 300 words. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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Public office bearers’ salaries to increase

Source: Government of South Africa

Public office bearers’ salaries to increase

President Cyril Ramaphosa has determined to increase the salaries of public office bearers by between  3.8% and 4.1% in different categories.

This after the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers recommended a salary increment of some 4.1% for all public office bearers.

“The increase of 4.1% applies to judges, magistrates, traditional leaders and members of independent constitutional institutions.

“The increase of 3.8% applies to Members of the National Executive, Members of Parliament, members of provincial executive councils and members of provincial legislatures,” the Presidency said.

The increases will take effect from 1 April 2025.

The Presidency explained that in arriving at its decision, the Independent Commission is required, in terms of section 8(6) of the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office-Bearers Act, 1997, to consider:

  • The role, status, duties, functions and responsibilities of the office bearers concerned.
  • Affordability of different levels of remuneration of public office bearers.
  • Current principles and levels of remuneration, particularly in respect of organs of State.
  • Inflation.
  • Available resources of the State.
  • Public service remuneration levels.

“The Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers is mandated in terms of section 219(1), (2) and (5) of the Constitution, read with section 8(4) of the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers Act, 1997 (Act No. 92 of 1997), to make annual recommendations relating to the salaries and/or the upper limits of the salaries, allowances, and benefits of the public office-bearers.

“President Ramaphosa appreciates the diligence and integrity with which the Commission developed its recommendations,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Justice Department confirms fatal shooting at Booysens Court

Source: Government of South Africa

Justice Department confirms fatal shooting at Booysens Court

The Justice and Constitutional Development department has confirmed a fatal shooting incident at the Booysens Magistrates’ Court in Gauteng on Tuesday.

The incident is the latest in a growing trend of violence at judicial facilities, with similar incidents occurring at the Athlone, Mitchells Plain and Wynberg Magistrates Courts in the Western Cape and another incident at Melmoth Court in KwaZulu-Natal – all in the span of last year.

“The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development has learnt with serious concern of [the] shooting incident.

“The incident is still active, and law enforcement agencies are attending to the situation. At this stage, it has been reported that five people were shot, with two fatalities,” a department statement said.

Deputy Minister Andries Nel is expected to “proceed to the scene to assess the situation, while the Ministry is awaiting further verified details from law enforcement agencies and court management”.

“The Ministry will provide updates as more information becomes available.

“The Ministry condemns this incident and will work with the relevant security and law enforcement authorities to ensure that all necessary measures are implemented to safeguard court users and personnel,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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R20 million emergency relief allocated to tackle Knysna water crisis

Source: Government of South Africa

R20 million emergency relief allocated to tackle Knysna water crisis

Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina has announced an emergency relief allocation of R20 million to the Knysna Municipality, as part of urgent interventions to address the town’s deepening water crisis.

Majodina announced the allocation following a two-day working visit to the Garden Route District Municipality in the Western Cape, to assess the status of water challenges.

Majodina said the funding, drawn from reprioritised water services infrastructure grants, will be used alongside technical support from the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) to develop groundwater resources and ease pressure on Knysna’s strained surface water system.

Knysna’s water supply system is currently facing critical water shortages due to a severe localised drought affecting the Garden Route belt in the Western Cape.

The municipality’s primary water storage facility, the Akkerkloof Dam, is currently sitting at approximately 16% capacity, translating to an estimated 13 days of water at current consumption levels. The situation has been worsened by years of inadequate maintenance of water infrastructure, high non-revenue water losses and ongoing vandalism.

During her two-day visit on 17-18 January 2026, Majodina, accompanied by Knysna Executive Mayor Thando Matika and technical teams from both the municipality and DWS, conducted inspections at key water infrastructure sites. These included the Akkerkloof Dam, the Karatara River and several boreholes, to assess their potential for revival and additional yield.

While the low levels at Akkerkloof Dam have brought the crisis into sharp focus, technical assessments revealed that Knysna’s water challenges date back to at least 2023.

According to DWS, sufficient water resources could meet the town’s needs if leaks in the municipal distribution network were reduced and per capita consumption lowered. However, long-standing neglect of infrastructure asset management has left the system vulnerable.

Majodina supported the municipality’s decision to classify Knysna as a disaster area, noting that the request to the Western Cape Provincial Government to also declare Knysna a disaster area, will allow government to reprioritise resources and personnel from various sectors to address the situation.

“It will also assist government to have a co-ordinated and comprehensive approach and response to the water crisis,” the Minister said.

The department is also providing technical engineering expertise to assess the refurbishment requirements of the Knysna Desalination Plant, with the aim of increasing water supply.

The department is further assisting the Knysna Municipality to strengthen its water resources planning and has funded feasibility studies for a new small local dam to meet its longer-term demand.

The Minister urged the municipality to urgently develop a plan to tackle water leaks and install functioning water meters, which are major contributors to the high non-water revenue.

She also encouraged the exploration of alternative water sources, including groundwater, seawater desalination and water reuse, to reduce reliance on surface water.

The Minister highlighted that the department has previously provided support to the Knysna Municipality to assist with refurbishment and upgrading of some of its water supply infrastructure.

“The department allocated R12.4 million and R7 million during the 23/24-24/25 and 25/26 financial years respectively, through its Water Services Infrastructure Grant (WSIG), for the rehabilitation of existing water networks and for water conservation and demand management,” the Minister said.

During an engagement with the Knysna Business Chamber, Majodina commended the sector’s commitment to be part of the structures set up to solve the water challenges facing the tourist town.

The Knysna Business Chamber pledged to assist through mobilising its retired technical experts to contribute to resolving the water crisis.

Matika welcomed the department’s intervention and commitment demonstrated by the Minister in availing special emergency relief funding and technical support to address the municipality’s water challenges.

The mayor said the Minister’s hands-on engagement, together with the Department’s immediate, medium- and long-term interventions, complemented by provincial support, signals a strong, coordinated, and collaborative approach across all spheres of government to ensure water security for the Greater Knysna area.

“We further acknowledge and value the ongoing support and cooperation from both the Western Cape Department of Local Government and the National Department of Water and Sanitation, whose involvement strengthens the collective response to the current water crisis. This partnership demonstrates government’s shared responsibility to protect communities, sustain economic activity, and build a more resilient and sustainable water future for Knysna,” Matika said.

The department said it will continue to work closely with the municipality, provincial authorities and other stakeholders, and will provide regular updates to residents as interventions are implemented. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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