Category: Africa

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Lamola once again condemns US military strikes on Venezuela

Source: Government of South Africa

Lamola once again condemns US military strikes on Venezuela

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has once again condemned the unilateral military strikes carried out by the United States against Venezuela, reaffirming the country’s commitment to multilateralism.

He also denounced the abduction of President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, who are facing trial in the United States. 

This follows an incident in which United States special forces took Maduro and his wife to the United States early on Saturday morning.

In his first court appearance in New York on Monday, Maduro pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and other charges. 

Lamola believes that the recent actions by the United States reflect the warnings made by former President Nelson Mandela regarding the dangerous times affecting the world.

Writing as a President in waiting about South Africa’s future foreign policy, former Statesman Mandela argued: “Because the world is a more dangerous place, the international community dare not relinquish its commitment to human rights.”

Lamola emphasised that South Africa’s foreign policy should prioritise justice and international law, as President Mandela highlighted, cautioning that current challenges could undermine the UN Charter and multilateralism.

“As the machinations of powerful States threaten to return us to an era when international relations were defined by trusteeship, mandates and spheres of influence, the need to stay true to our values and principles couldn’t be more pressing.

“Chief among the principles we have sworn to uphold is the sovereign equality of all nations. When we placed our signatures upon the UN Charter, we made a solemn covenant. 

“We agreed to replace the sword with the statute, the battlefield with the negotiating table. We pledged to refrain from force, understanding that to violate the territorial integrity of one is to violate the peace and stability of all,” he said on Friday.  

The Minister was speaking in the North West, where the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, in collaboration with the Rustenburg Local Municipality, hosted a public participation event at the Civic Centre in Rustenburg.

“In this challenging environment, South Africa must continue to advocate for a rules-based international order grounded in international law… The rule of law remains fundamental to global stability, legitimacy and governance.

“It is for this reason that we reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism, with the UN at its centre.” 

Lamola believes that this period of significant geopolitical tension will determine whether the UN fulfils its commitments or if the world reverts to the era of the League of Nations.

“An age of wars, fragmentation and racial hierarchy. We hope that stability and peace prevail. If multilateralism is to survive the current geopolitical headwinds, reform is no longer an option.”

He once looked to Madiba’s words, who said: “The United Nations (UN) should not be dominated by a single power or a group of powers, or else its legitimacy will continuously be called into question.”

Lamola described the foreign policy as one of the tools used to create the conditions for inclusive growth, decent work and a dignified life.

“Far too often, our critics argue that South Africa is too concerned with the rest of the world while our country faces pressing challenges of its own. They argue that all politics is domestic and foreign policy is a distraction from bread-and-butter issues at home. This is a false choice.”

In the face of the raw exercise of power, Lamola said President Mandela’s teachings remain incisive. 

“Principle is not a costume you wear when convenient and tear apart when it feels too heavy.

“To ask us to abandon Ubuntu, justice, and the quest for human dignity for the sake of appeasing those who resort to raw power and falsehoods to enforce their will is to ask us to shed our identity.

“South Africa is the 20th century’s biggest beneficiary of international solidarity. What explanation will we offer to posterity if we discard our values and identity at the altar of expedience?” – SAnews.gov.za
 

Gabisile

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Results of alleged 2025 matric exam cheats to be delayed

Source: Government of South Africa

Results of alleged 2025 matric exam cheats to be delayed

Some 40 National Senior Certificate (NSC) 2025 candidates, who were implicated in a breach of exam papers, will have to wait to hear their exam results as the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and the National Investigative Task Team (NITT) investigating the breach continue their processes.

This according to DBE Minister Siviwe Gwarube, who briefed the media on Friday afternoon.

Last month, the Minister announced that NSC exam markers in Gauteng detected an unusual similarity in answers provided by a candidate with the answers provided in the marking guidelines for the English Paper 2 examination.

“On the NITT’s recommendation, results for the implicated 40 candidates will be withheld temporarily while the official irregularity processes are completed. 

“As part of these processes, each of the 40 candidates will be subjected to an independent hearing. Where a candidate is found guilty by the independent presiding officer, this finding, together with recommendations, will go to the Provincial Examination Irregularity Committee and thereafter the National Examination Irregularity Committee. [Further education and training quality assurer] Umalusi will be the final arbiter,” Gwarube announced.

Candidates, who are found guilty may have their results in the relevant subjects “nullified and may be further sanctioned”, which can include a ban from writing the NSC examinations for up to three examination sessions.

The DBE has already instituted precautionary suspensions against officials suspected to be involved in the breach – including an official whose child was writing the exams.

“In addition, the Department is implementing the NITT’s recommendations to institute investigations and disciplinary proceedings against implicated officials; to continue the forensic investigation into unlawful access to and distribution of examination materials; and to support criminal proceedings where the evidence warrants it.

“Those who compromise the NSC do not only break rules, they also attempt to steal opportunities from honest learners. We will pursue accountability through every appropriate disciplinary and criminal process, in line with due process once the necessary investigations are concluded,” the Minister vowed.

Examining the breach

Gwarube explained that the breach started at department’s secure exam paper system environment – where question papers are set, handled and stored.

The seven papers leaked are:

  • English Home Language: Paper 1, Paper 2 and Paper 3;
  • Mathematics: Paper 1 and Paper 2; and
  • Physical Sciences: Paper 1 and Paper 2.

“The NITT further indicated that, on the evidence available to date, a DBE official whose child was an NSC 2025 candidate is alleged to have been involved in this breach, with the learner subsequently forming part of the distribution chain. The NITT also noted that a possible second suspected official remains subject to corroboration through the ongoing forensic and investigative work.

“Based on evidence available to date, the NITT reported that the breach was contained to 40 candidates in the Tshwane area and therefore localised. This reflects a very small portion in comparison to the over 900 000 candidates who wrote the NSC exams in 2025,” she added.

The minister moved to assure that the integrity of the NSC 2025 examinations remains intact, particularly in light of Umalusi’s approval of the exams earlier on Friday.

“Umalusi’s certification today is a clear assurance  to every candidate, every guardian and every parent that the NSC 2025 remains credible.

“This breach was detected through the strength of our marking and quality assurance systems. Markers are our first line of defence. The fact that anomalies were identified, escalated through established protocols demonstrate that the NSC system is designed to detect irregularities and act decisively to protect honest learners.

“We will not compromise the future of honest learners because of the actions of a few. We will not leave any stone unturned in ensuring accountability and safeguarding the credibility of the NSC,” Gwarube said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB

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Minister Pemmy Majodina commissions major water infrastructure to secure supply for Rustenburg and Thabazimbi

Source: APO – Report:

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Minister Majodina commissions major water infrastructure to secure supply for Rustenburg and Thabazimbi, warns against water mafias

Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina, together with Deputy Minister Mr David Mahlobo, commissioned critical upgraded water infrastructure that will significantly improve water security for the residents of Rustenburg Local Municipality under Bojanala District Municipality in the North West, as well as Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo.

The commissioning included the upgraded Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Water Pumpstation and the associated Bulk Water Pipeline, both of which are designed to respond to growing water demand and ensure long-term water security in the two provinces.

Minister Majodina was joined by the Members of the Executive Council responsible for Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (CoGHSTA) in the North West, Mr Gaoage Oageng Molapisi, and in Limpopo, Mr Basikopo Makamu. Also in attendance were the Executive Mayors of Bojanala District Municipality, Rustenburg Local Municipality and Thabazimbi Local Municipality. Magalies Water was represented by its Board Chairperson, Dr Lydia Sebego, and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Ofentse Nthutang.

The Vaalkop Water Treatment Works Raw Water Pumpstation upgrade, implemented by Magalies Water from February 2023 and completed in November 2025, will ensure sustainable water supply for Moses Kotane and Rustenburg Local Municipalities in the 

North West, as well as Thabazimbi Local Municipality in Limpopo.

The Pumpstation directly abstracts water from Vaalkop Dam and has been upgraded from a capacity of 240 megalitres per day (ML/day) to 360 ML/day. It has been equipped with ten pump sets designed to efficiently supply raw water to the water treatment works, strengthening operational reliability, improving water management and reducing water losses.

Minister Majodina also commissioned the upgraded Bulk Water Supply Scheme, which was initiated in response to increasing water demand from the rural communities of Bethanie, Modikoe and Berseba within Rustenburg Local Municipality.

Implemented by Magalies Water in partnership with Glencore Rhovan PSV Mine, the project involved the construction and installation of a 23.4-kilometre bulk potable water pipeline, comprising 560mm and 400mm diameter pipes with associated valves. The pipeline runs from the Kortbegrip Reservoir to the Bethanie and Modikoe Reservoirs.

The new pipeline replaces the ageing asbestos fibre-cement pipeline that had reached the end of its operational life and was prone to frequent bursts. The upgraded infrastructure increases bulk water supply capacity to meet the current demand of 7.05 ML/day and future demand projected at 12.60 ML/day.

Importantly, the project will also enable additional water volumes to supply Makolokwe Village, where access to water remains critically low. Currently, the village relies on boreholes that are insufficient to meet the growing needs of the community.

The second phase of the project, the bulk pipeline between Bethanie and Makolokwe Village, is scheduled to commence in March 2026 and will include the construction of a booster pumpstation at the Bethanie Reservoir. Upon full completion, the project will provide a reliable water supply to a combined population of approximately 144,133 residents, including households, schools, clinics, businesses and community institutions.

Minister Majodina commended the public-private partnership between Rustenburg Local Municipality and Glencore Rhovan PSV Mine, noting its positive contribution to accelerating service delivery in Bethanie and Modikoe villages.

“Today’s handover represents progress, but more importantly, it represents partnership. When government, communities and stakeholders work together, we can overcome scarcity, defeat criminality and deliver sustainable services.

“The benefits of this investment are clear and far-reaching. For households, it means a more reliable water supply and greater resilience during peak demand periods. For local businesses, industries and emerging enterprises, it provides the certainty needed to operate efficiently, expand production and create jobs. For municipalities, it strengthens the backbone of service delivery and long-term development planning,” said Minister Majodina.

The Minister also called on communities to protect the newly commissioned infrastructure and keep it safe from vandalism and sabotage. She strongly condemned individuals and syndicates who deliberately damage water infrastructure to sustain illegal water trading activities.

“These projects must be protected, and I want to speak clearly and firmly today: water infrastructure is not a playground for criminals. The vandalism of pipelines, theft of equipment and manipulation of water systems by so-called water mafias is a direct attack on the dignity and well-being of our people. It deprives families of water, disrupts livelihoods and undermines development.

“This government will not tolerate water mafias. Those who vandalise, steal or illegally profit from water infrastructure are stealing from children, the elderly and the most vulnerable. Law enforcement agencies are working closely with the Department, municipalities and water boards, and we will pursue arrests, prosecutions and harsh consequences for anyone who undermines service delivery,” Minister Majodina concluded.

– on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

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Water and Sanitation monitors Knysna water crisis and coordinating short-, medium- and long-term interventions

Source: APO – Report:

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The National Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) notes with serious concern the escalating water supply challenges currently affecting Knysna and other coastal towns within the Garden Route District. The Department is working closely with the Western Cape Provincial Government, Knysna Municipality, and other municipalities which are Water Services Authorities to safeguard water security and mitigate the impact of the crisis on residents, businesses, and the tourism sector.

Current Status of Water Security in Knysna

Knysna’s water supply system has reached a critical stage. The Akkerkloof Dam, the municipality’s primary storage facility, is currently at approximately 19% full, translating to an estimated 13 days of usable water at present consumption levels. The situation constitutes a serious water security crisis and warrants immediate and collective action from all sectors of society.

Compounding this pressure are below-normal rainfall patterns, reduced river flows due to drought conditions, and recent incidents of infrastructure vandalism. These factors have significantly reduced inflows into the system and further constrained the Municipality’s ability to meet growing demand.

Intergovernmental Coordination and Emergency Structures

In response to the deteriorating situation, a Joint Operations Committee (JOC), a standing intergovernmental structure, has been activated to oversee coordinated interventions. The structure is co-chaired by DWS, the Western Cape Department of Local Government and Knysna Municipality and draws technical and regulatory support from the Breede-Olifants Catchment Management Agency (BOCMA) and the Garden Route District Municipality.

The JOC is tasked with planning and executing short-term emergency measures, medium-term resilience interventions, as well as longer-term water resource solutions to reduce vulnerability to future climatic and environmental shocks.

Regulatory and Compliance Measures

Given the severity of the crisis, DWS through its regulatory and water resource management functions has directed the Municipality to urgently explore and activate alternative water sources. These include groundwater abstraction, borehole development, reuse technologies, and temporary augmentation schemes.

DWS together with BOCMA, the Western Cape Department of Environmental Affairs and Knysna Municipality, will implement a Compliance and Enforcement Blitz to assess adherence to water use authorisations, imposed restrictions and environmental regulations. This intervention is intended to prevent illegal abstraction, wastage, and non-compliance that could further compromise available supply.

Short- to Medium-Term Interventions Underway

The following measures are currently being monitored by DWS in collaboration with the JOC:
1.    Demand reduction initiatives encouraging all water users to significantly curtail consumption.
2.    Sourcing and blending of additional water supply where technically feasible.
3.    Enforcement and monitoring of Level 4 water restrictions.
4.    Public communication and awareness campaigns to keep residents and visitors informed.
5.    Preventative maintenance of critical infrastructure to minimise unplanned outages or leak-related water losses.

These actions are aimed at extending available supply, delaying system failure, and preserving reserves for priority domestic and public health needs.

Climate Change and Long-Term Adaptation

The current crisis underscores the growing impact of climate change on water resources, particularly in coastal and tourism-driven municipalities. The Department reiterates that Water Services Authorities can no longer rely exclusively on surface water systems and must diversify portfolios through a mix of:

  • groundwater development
  • water reuse and recycling
  • stormwater capture
  • desalination (where feasible)
  • improved demand management and efficiency of water use.

To support institutional resilience, DWS is further assisting Knysna Municipality through its Policy Development Special Project to develop and implement new Water and Sanitation By-Laws, enabling more effective regulation, tariff alignment, and enforcement capacity going forward.

Appeal to Stakeholders and the Public

DWS remains concerned about the potential socio-economic implications of the crisis on households, public services, the local economy, and the tourism industry particularly during peak season. The Department therefore appeals to all residents, businesses, and visitors to use water sparingly and responsibly.

The Department condemns recent incidents of vandalism of municipal infrastructure and calls upon community members to report such actions to law enforcement authorities.

Assurance and Way Forward

DWS wishes to reassure the public that the national, provincial and district spheres of government, along with sector stakeholders, are aligned and working collectively to stabilise water supply and improve system resilience in Knysna and the broader Garden Route coastal route.

Progress updates will be communicated to the public as further interventions are implemented and as conditions evolve.

– on behalf of Department of Water and Sanitation, Republic of South Africa.

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Levene Energy assegura uma Linha de Crédito de 64 milhões de Dólares do Afreximbank para Adquirir Participação Estratégica na Axxela Limited

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) concedeu uma Linha de Crédito no valor de 64 milhões de dólares ao Levene Energy Development Limited. A linha de crédito apoia o compromisso de capital do Levene Energy com a Bluecore Gas Infraco Limited (a “Adquirente”) para a aquisição de uma participação de 30% do capital da Axxela Limited, uma das principais empresas de infra-estruturas de gás e energia da África Ocidental.

Esta transacção histórica proporciona ao Levene Energy entrada directa nos sectores regulamentados a nível intermédio e a jusante do gás da Nigéria. Representa uma diversificação significativa da sua actividade principal de comercialização de petróleo e produtos petrolíferos refinados para receitas estáveis e de longo prazo apoiadas em infra-estruturas, reflectindo o objectivo do Levene Energy de fazer a transição para uma empresa de energia totalmente integrada com fluxos de receitas recorrentes ancorados em activos apoiados em infra-estruturas.

Para além do seu significado comercial, o investimento apoia os objectivos regionais de transição energética, expandindo o acesso ao gás natural. A Axxela está estrategicamente posicionada para liderar a transição energética da Nigéria através dos seus investimentos em infra-estruturas de gás, produção de energia e soluções de energias mais limpas. Com um conjunto de projectos robusto, fortes parcerias regionais e um modelo de negócio reestruturado, a Axxela está bem equipada para garantir um crescimento sustentável e aprofundar o seu impacto no panorama energético da África Ocidental.

Ao comentar sobre o financiamento, o Vice-Presidente Executivo do Afreximbank para a Banca Comercial Global, Sr. Haytham Elmaayergi, destacou a importância da transacção, que está alinhada com as prioridades estratégicas de financiamento do Afreximbank no âmbito dos seus pilares de Liderança na Banca Comercial Global, Comércio Intra-Africano e Industrialização. “A nossa principal força reside nas parcerias estratégicas que estabelecemos com os principais intervenientes africanos. Este acordo reflecte o compromisso do Banco em promover o investimento do sector privado em infra-estruturas críticas, promovendo a segurança energética em toda África e reforçando as cadeias de valor regionais no sector do petróleo e gás. Ao apoiar a iniciativa estratégica do Levene Energy no domínio das infra-estruturas de gás, estamos a apoiar a transição crítica para fontes de energia mais limpas, melhorando a segurança energética regional e reforçando as cadeias de valor intra-africanas.”

Comentando sobre a aquisição, o Responsável pelo Desenvolvimento Corporativo do Levene Energy, Sr. Sam Aofolaju, observou que a linha de crédito do Afreximbank é um catalisador para o foco estratégico de crescimento do Levene Energy, que vai além do comércio de commodities (produtos de base) para as energias renováveis (energia solar) e agora para a espinha dorsal da infra-estrutura de gás e energia da África Ocidental – um pilar essencial da transição para as energias limpas no continente. O financiamento do Afreximbank não só valida a nossa visão, como sublinha a nossa convicção comum de que infra-estruturas resilientes e de propriedade local constituem a base para um desenvolvimento económico duradouro em toda África.

A parceria entre o Afreximbank e o Levene Energy remonta ao ano de 2019, tendo iniciado com linhas de crédito para o financiamento do comércio. Desde então, evoluiu para uma colaboração estratégica que apoia a transformação do Levene de um operador a jusante para um importante comerciante pan-africano e, agora, um investidor em infra-estruturas de gás.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

Contacto para a Imprensa do Afreximbank:
Vincent Musumba
Gestor de Comunicações e Eventos (Relações com a Imprensa)
Correio Electrónico: press@afreximbank.com

Siga-nos no:
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Sobre o Afreximbank:
O Banco Africano de Exportação e Importação (Afreximbank) é uma instituição financeira multilateral pan-africana com mandato para financiar e promover o comércio intra e extra-africano. Há mais de 30 anos que o Banco utiliza estruturas inovadoras para oferecer soluções de financiamento que apoiam a transformação da estrutura do comércio africano, acelerando a industrialização e o comércio intra-regional, impulsionando assim a expansão económica em África. Apoiante firme do Acordo de Comércio Livre Continental Africano (ACLCA), o Afreximbank lançou um Sistema Pan-Africano de Pagamento e Liquidação (PAPSS) que foi adoptado pela União Africana (UA) como plataforma de pagamento e liquidação para sustentar a implementação da ZCLCA. Em colaboração com o Secretariado da ZCLCA e a UA, o Banco criou um Fundo de Ajustamento de 10 mil milhões de dólares para apoiar os países que participam de forma efectiva na ZCLCA. No final de Dezembro de 2024, o total de activos e contingências do Afreximbank ascendia a mais de 40,1 mil milhões de dólares e os seus fundos de accionistas a 7,2 mil milhões de dólares. O Afreximbank tem notações de grau de investimento atribuídas pela GCR (escala internacional) (A), Moody’s (Baa2), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) e Fitch (BBB-). O Afreximbank evoluiu para uma entidade de grupo que inclui o Banco, a sua subsidiária de fundo de impacto de acções, denominada Fundo para o Desenvolvimento das Exportações em África (FEDA), e a sua subsidiária de gestão de seguros, AfrexInsure (em conjunto, “o Grupo”). O Banco tem a sua sede em Cairo, Egipto.

Para mais informações, visite: www.Afreximbank.com.

Sobre o Levene Energy Group:
O Levene Energy Group é uma empresa global de energia de origem africana, comprometida em fornecer soluções integradas em toda a cadeia de valor do petróleo, gás e energias renováveis. Fundada com a visão de impulsionar o crescimento industrial de África, o Levene evoluiu de uma empresa líder no comércio de commodities (produtos de base) para uma empresa diversificada no sector energético, com operações que abrangem o comércio, serviços a montante, engenharia e desenvolvimento de energias limpas.

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Moçambique implementa e expande programa para reforçar adaptação climática

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

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Moçambique, um dos países mais vulneráveis às alterações climáticas em África, enfrenta desafios estruturais agravados por choques económicos, conflitos e fenómenos meteorológicos extremos.  

Para responder a estes riscos e proteger os ganhos de desenvolvimento, o país tem apostado num modelo descentralizado de adaptação climática, integrando o financiamento climático nos sistemas nacionais e locais de planeamento e orçamento. 

Programa LoCAL apoia adaptação climática

O Governo de Moçambique, com apoio do Fundo de Desenvolvimento de Capital das Nações Unidas, Uncdf, implementou o programa “Local Climate Adaptive Living Facility”, LoCAL, com o objetivo melhorar a resiliência climática reforçando o acesso dos governos locais a financiamento baseado no desempenho.  

O LoCAL foi lançado em 2014 como um programa de financiamento climático concebido pelo Uncdf e implementado em Moçambique através dos Ministérios da Economia e Finanças e da Terra e Ambiente.

O programa opera atualmente em sete províncias, Gaza, Inhambane, Nampula, Niassa, Zambézia, Cabo Delgado e Sofala, e tem como objetivo melhorar a resiliência climática reforçando o acesso dos governos locais a financiamento baseado no desempenho. 

O LoCAL utiliza subvenções de resiliência climática baseadas no desempenho, integradas nos processos existentes de planeamento, orçamentação e investimento a nível local.  

Para aceder aos fundos, as autoridades subnacionais devem cumprir critérios mínimos, incluindo avaliações de risco climático e a integração da adaptação climática nos planos de desenvolvimento de forma participativa e sensível ao género. 

Resultados e impacto em comunidades vulneráveis 

Até 2024, o programa beneficiou diretamente mais de 3 milhões de pessoas através da implementação de mais de 100 projetos de infraestruturas adaptadas ao clima, incluindo centros de saúde, maternidades, escolas, sistemas de abastecimento de água e unidades de dessalinização.  

Cerca de 65% dos projetos foram selecionados por mulheres, e a participação comunitária contribuiu para a criação de emprego local e para o reforço dos meios de subsistência resilientes.

Em resposta aos resultados alcançados, o Governo solicitou em 2022 a expansão do LoCAL a nível nacional. Até 2024, o programa abrangia 54 dos 154 distritos e 7 dos 65 municípios do país, com atividades de planeamento da adaptação climática em nove das 11 províncias.  

Mais de US$ 30 milhões foram mobilizados em subvenções baseadas no desempenho e no reforço de capacidades, contribuindo para a institucionalização da adaptação climática e para o fortalecimento da governação descentralizada. 

Integração nos sistemas nacionais de planeamento e finanças públicas

O LoCAL apoia os ciclos anuais de planeamento e orçamento dos governos locais através dos sistemas fiscais existentes, com avaliações de desempenho que orientam a alocação futura de recursos e o apoio técnico. 

Um sistema de monitorização e avaliação permite que as lições aprendidas a nível local informem políticas nacionais, promovendo a integração das considerações climáticas em todas as fases da gestão das finanças públicas. 

A experiência de Moçambique com o LoCAL é um caso da transformação de vulnerabilidades climáticas em oportunidades de desenvolvimento. 

Apresenta um modelo escalável de financiamento climático descentralizado, assente na liderança comunitária, em critérios de desempenho e no alinhamento com os sistemas nacionais, reforçando a capacidade do país para enfrentar riscos climáticos e apoiar o desenvolvimento local.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

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Umalusi reassures public of integrity of 2025 matric exam results

Source: Government of South Africa

Umalusi reassures public of integrity of 2025 matric exam results

Umalusi has reassured the public that the integrity of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results is intact, despite a confirmed leak affecting 40 learners across three subjects.

Umalusi [Council for Quality Assurance in General and Further Education and Training in South Africa] CEO, Dr Mafu Rakometsi, said following extensive quality assurance processes and an independent investigation, the quality council can assure South Africans that they can trust that the results reflect learners’ genuine performance.

“We want to assure the public that the breach was localised and therefore cannot dent the overall credibility of the 2025 NSC results,” Rakometsi said on Friday. 

Rakometsi addressed the media regarding the exams conducted by the Department of Basic Education (DBE), the Independent Examinations Board (IEB), the South African Comprehensive Assessment Institute (SACAI), and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

The CEO outlined the comprehensive quality assurance framework applied to all examinations it oversees. 

This involves moderating question papers and school assessments, auditing examination readiness, monitoring writing at selected centres, participating in marking discussions, verifying marking quality in certain subjects, and standardising marks across over 300 subjects.

Rakometsi said the Assessment Standards Committee (ASC) of Umalusi standardised the 2025 external examination results between 18 December 2025 and 5 January 2026.

“The 15-member committee spent considerable time carefully analysing numerical data and narrative reports to arrive at standardisation decisions by way of consensus for each one of the over 300 subjects presented,” the CEO explained.

In addition, observers from 11 national and international organisations also scrutinised the process. 

Their message, Umalusi reported, was that while systems differ, “the quality assurance processes converge around the need to ensure the highest credibility and integrity of the certificates issued.”

Exam leaks 

On 11 December 2025, the Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube, informed the nation of a breach involving mathematics Papers 1 and 2, physical sciences Papers 1 and 2, and English home language Papers 1 to 3. 

A National Investigation Task Team (NITT) of nine members, with Umalusi as observer, was appointed to investigate. 

The NITT’s report was presented to Umalusi’s Executive Committee on 6 January 2026.

“The overall conclusion of the investigation is that the leak was limited to the three subjects or seven papers… and that the leak was contained to around 40 candidates in seven examination centres in the Pretoria area,” Rakometsi said.

“While the number of implicated learners currently stands at around 40, there will be consequences for anyone who is not included in the number now, should they be discovered later.”

The CEO commended the Department of Basic Education (DBE) for its quick action but expressed concern over ongoing irregularities like group copying, highlighting that some provinces frequently appear in reports of these issues.

He called on provincial departments and private assessment bodies “to tighten their systems to protect the overall credibility of the examinations”.

Umalusi reminded learners that the law empowers it to cancel certificates if irregularities are discovered later. 

“If you cheated in this examination and you are found out later, you will have to return the certificate, failing which you will be imprisoned,” said Rakometsi.

The council condemned practices like gatekeeping, which prevent learners from writing certain subjects so that schools can improve pass rates. He praised interventions by the DBE to curtail this.

Social ills

Umalusi expressed regret that some candidates fell victim to social ills, such as rape and robbery, during the examination period. 

It urged community members and relevant authorities to support all victims in whatever way possible.

Umalusi chairperson, Professor Yunus Ballim, has approved the release of the 2025 end-of-year exam results, stating there were “no systemic irregularities” affecting exam integrity. 

Over one million candidates sat for exams in more than 300 subjects at approximately 9 400 centres, with the NSC accounting for 90.3% of those, or around 927 000 candidates.

Ballim noted a high acceptance of raw marks, indicating a stable system.

“When we accept a larger proportion of raw results, that points to a system that is settled, doing reasonably well.”

In a heartfelt message to the Class of 2025, the Professor acknowledged all participants in a “large and complex” system that meticulously processes over a million scripts, ensuring the integrity of the process is maintained.

He also took the time to encourage those who failed and pleaded with them not to give up. 

“Work harder, and you will do better in this year’s examinations.” – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile

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Levene Energy obtient une facilité de 64 millions de dollars US auprès d’Afreximbank pour l’acquisition d’une participation stratégique dans Axxela Limited

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) a accordé une facilité de financement d’acquisition de 64 millions de dollars US à Levene Energy Development Limited. Cette facilité soutient l’engagement de Levene Energy dans le capital de Bluecore Gas Infraco Limited (l’« Acquéreur ») et lui permet l’acquisition d’une participation de 30 % dans Axxela Limited, l’une des principales sociétés d’infrastructures gazières et électriques d’Afrique de l’Ouest.

Cette transaction historique permet à Levene Energy d’entrer directement dans les secteurs gaziers réglementés du transport et de la distribution  au Nigeria. Elle marque une diversification importante de son activité principale de négoce de pétrole et de ses produits pétroliers raffinés vers des revenus stables et à long terme, adossés à des infrastructures, reflétant ainsi l’objectif de Levene Energy de devenir une société énergétique entièrement intégrée avec des flux de revenus récurrents, ancrés dans des actifs adossés à des infrastructures.

Au-delà de son importance commerciale, l’investissement soutient les objectifs régionaux de transition énergétique en élargissant l’accès au gaz naturel. Axxela est stratégiquement positionnée pour mener la transition énergétique du Nigeria grâce à ses investissements dans les infrastructures gazières, la production d’électricité et les solutions énergétiques plus propres. Avec une solide réserve de projets, des partenariats régionaux forts et un modèle d’entreprise restructuré, Axxela est bien outillée pour assurer une croissance durable et renforcer son impact sur le paysage énergétique de l’Afrique de l’Ouest.

Revenant sur ce financement, le Vice-Président Exécutif d’Afreximbank en charge de la Global Trade Bank, M. Haytham Elmaayergi, a souligné l’importance de la transaction, qui est alignée sur les priorités stratégiques de financement d’Afreximbank dans le cadre de ses piliers de Leadership en matière de Banque Commerciale Mondiale, Commerce Intra-Africain, et Industrialisation. «Notre force principale réside dans les partenariats stratégiques que nous nouons avec les champions africains. Cet accord reflète l’engagement de la Banque à promouvoir les investissements du secteur privé dans les infrastructures essentielles, à favoriser la sécurité énergétique en Afrique et à renforcer les chaînes de valeur régionales dans les domaines du pétrole et du gaz. En soutenant la stratégie de Levene Energy dans le domaine des infrastructures gazières, nous soutenons la transition critique vers des sources d’énergie plus propres, nous renforçons la sécurité énergétique régionale et nous consolidons les chaînes de valeur intra-africaines».

Commentant cette acquisition, M. Sam Aofolaju, Directeur de Levene Energy, en charge du développement institutionnel a souligné que le soutien d’Afreximbank est un catalyseur pour la stratégie de croissance de Levene Energy qui, au-delà du commerce de matières premières, s’étend désormais vers les énergies renouvelables (solaire) et devient un pilier essentiel des infrastructures gazières et électriques de l’Afrique de l’Ouest – un élément fondamental de la transition énergétique propre du continent. Ce financement d’Afreximbank non seulement confirme notre vision, mais souligne également notre conviction commune que des infrastructures résilientes et gérées localement sont le fondement d’un développement économique durable en Afrique.

Ce partenariat entre Afreximbank et Levene Energy remonte à 2019 et a commencé par des facilités de financement du commerce. La coopération a depuis lors évolué vers une collaboration stratégique permettant ainsi à Levene de passer d’un simple opérateur en un négociant panafricain majeur et actuellement, en un investisseur dans l’infrastructure gazière.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse d’Afreximbank:
Vincent Musumba
Responsable de la communication et des événements (relations avec les médias)
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 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez visiter : www.Afreximbank.com

À propos de Levene Energy Group :
Levene Energy Group est une entreprise énergétique mondiale d’origine africaine qui s’est engagée à fournir des solutions intégrées tout au long de la chaîne de valeur du pétrole, du gaz et des énergies renouvelables. Fondée dans le but de stimuler la croissance industrielle de l’Afrique, Levene est passée du statut de négociant en matières premières à celui d’acteur diversifié dans le domaine de l’énergie, avec des activités couvrant le négoce, les services en amont, l’ingénierie et le développement d’énergies propres.

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Diamond Plus and Diamond Sponsors Unite at Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 to Advance Libya’s Upstream Investment Agenda

Source: APO


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Assail Drilling Company (a Diamond Plus sponsor) and TotalEnergies, ConocoPhillips, Repsol, OMV and Eni (Diamond sponsors) will participate in the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 at the highest level, reaffirming strong international and domestic backing for Libya’s upstream growth strategy as the country targets oil production of 2 million barrels per day (bpd). 

Assail Drilling’s participation underscores the critical role of local drilling and services capacity in Libya’s upstream expansion. The company continues to scale operations across key producing assets, strengthening drilling capacity while supporting workforce development, safety standards and technical training across Libya’s oil and gas sector. 

Recent developments across international energy company portfolios highlight Libya’s near-term production upside. In late 2025, OMV (https://apo-opa.co/4pzKPfz) announced a major discovery at the B1-106/4 well in the Sirte Basin (https://apo-opa.co/45JMnwq), with test flows exceeding 4,200 barrels per day (bpd) of oil and 2.6 million cubic feet per day of gas. Estimated recoverable volumes at the Essar prospect range between 15 and 42 million barrels of oil equivalent. OMV is engaging with the National Oil Corporation (NOC) to lift force majeure in several contract areas and advance new seismic acquisition and drilling programs in early 2026. 

Reaffirming its long-term commitment to Libya’s evolving energy landscape through a multi-energy strategy spanning upstream growth, gas development and decarbonization, TotalEnergies (https://apo-opa.co/456JWnE) has worked to support the country’s ambitions to lift output, strengthen energy security and attract international capital. In 2025, the company advanced record-setting production across the Waha concessions, progressed restart plans at Mabruk, expanded exploration in the Murzuq Basin and evaluated large-scale solar capacity near Misrata alongside low-carbon solutions such as methane detection technologies. 

Underscoring its strategic role in advancing Libya’s long-term production growth and investment framework, ConocoPhillips (https://apo-opa.co/4svMbuv) has deepened engagement with the NOC through high-level negotiations aimed at securing competitive fiscal and operational terms to unlock multi-billion-dollar developments. As part of its interests in Waha, ConocoPhillips is prioritizing large-scale projects such as North Gialo 6J and NC-98, as well as drilling, gas integration and operational readiness initiatives designed to support Libya’s ambition of reaching 2 million bpd by the end of the decade. 

Repsol (https://apo-opa.co/49Le5eJ) has accelerated its upstream activity in Libya, lifting operated production to around 307,000 bpd and targeting 350,000 bpd by year-end. The company is executing a nine-well drilling campaign in the Murzuq Basin while advancing gas flaring reduction initiatives and an LPG project in Ubari to improve domestic energy access. Production at the El Sharara field has also exceeded 300,000 bpd for the first time since 2019, reinforcing Repsol’s growing operational momentum across the country. 

Eni (https://apo-opa.co/4jyPr4u) will reinforce its position at LEES as a cornerstone of Libya’s gas-focused growth strategy. Operated primarily through Mellitah Oil and Gas, a 50-50 joint venture with the NOC, Eni is advancing the $8 billion offshore Structures A&E project, targeting up to 750 million standard cubic feet per day with first gas expected around 2026, alongside carbon capture and storage at Mellitah. The company has resumed offshore and onshore exploration, operates the Bahr Essalam and Wafa fields, plans €8 billion in investments by 2029 and has been shortlisted for Libya’s upcoming upstream licensing round. 

Join industry leaders at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 in Tripoli and explore investment opportunities in one of North Africa’s most dynamic energy markets. LEES 2026 offers a premier platform for partnerships, innovation and sector growth. Visit www.LibyaSummit.com to secure your participation. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com. 

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

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Emergent BioSolutions, PANTHER Partner to Advance Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC)-Led MpOx Study

Source: APO


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Emergent BioSolutions has announced a collaboration agreement with PANTHER to provide additional financial support to continue progressing the Africa CDC-led ‘MpOx Study in Africa’ (MOSA). This initiative aims to advance research into effective treatments for patients diagnosed with mpox, a virus for which there is currently no dedicated antiviral therapy.  

Launched in 2024, MOSA is a double-blind, platform-adaptive clinical trial designed to evaluate potential treatment options for mpox across multiple African countries. The study initially received funding from the European Union and Africa CDC, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) being a major area of focus.  

An independent data and safety monitoring board (DSMB) completed its initial review of MOSA safety data in December 2025, after the first 50 patients were randomised, and recommended continuing the trial, with no safety concerns identified.  

“We applaud Africa CDC, the DRC investigators, and PANTHER for their efforts in reaching this important milestone and are proud to support the advancement of the MOSA trial,” said Simon Lowry, M.D., chief medical officer, head of research and development, Emergent. “Emergent is committed to collaborating with research partners around the world to study medications that address global health threats.”

As the study continues, Africa CDC and PANTHER intend to extend the study to new countries, including a site in Uganda, and enrol patients to reach the next milestone.

“This study represents a critical step in generating evidence to inform mpox treatment and strengthen Africa’s capacity to respond to emerging health threats,” said Africa CDC Director General, Dr Jean Kaseya. “Africa CDC will continue working closely with partners whose collaboration and support are essential in advancing research and improving preparedness across the continent.”

Since the beginning of 2024, the continent has reported more than 61,383 confirmed cases and 296 deaths across 32 countries, according to Africa CDC. Africa has both major mpox clades, Clade I, which is endemic to Central Africa and causes more severe illness, and Clade II, which is more prevalent in West Africa, while recent outbreaks have featured subclades like Clade Ia, Ib and Clade IIa and IIb.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).