Category: Africa

Posted on

South Africa: President Ramaphosa appoints new leadership for the Presidential Climate Commission

Source: APO


.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the new cohort of the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) for the 2026–2030 tenure, in terms of the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No 22 of 2024). 

Following due consideration of all submitted nominations, President Ramaphosa has appointed a total of twenty five(25)  commissioners who are representative of broader sections of South African society including business, labour, civil society, traditional leadership, youth and South African Local Government Association as the new commission

The commissioners bring in diverse experience and  relevant experience in climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, economic development, energy, social justice and were appointed with a strong consideration to achieving diversity in gender, age, geographic spread and background in line with national transformation goals and procedural justice principles.

The appointments are a culmination of a public nomination process, which was initiated in August this year in accordance with Section 10(4)(a) of the Climate Change Act. 

The initial establishment of the PCC was an outcome of the 2018 Presidential Jobs Summit, where social partners agreed to create a multi-stakeholder body to coordinate and oversee South Africa’s just transition to a low-carbon, inclusive and climate-resilient economy and society.

President Ramaphosa has reiterated his appreciation for the outgoing commissioners on their leadership and achievements over the first five years and commends their role in shaping domestic climate policy, fostering inclusive national dialogue, and amplifying South Africa’s Climate Diplomacy. 

The President calls on the new commissioners to individually and collectively continue to fulfil their role and mandate of providing independent, evidence-based advice; facilitate inclusive dialogue in the pursuit of a consensus to address South Africa’s complex climate and development agenda and to put into practice, the country’s just transition framework.

The President will announce the Deputy Chairperson at the first Meeting of the Commission in 2026 and further outline high-level priorities for the Commission for the next five years.  

Herewith is the list of the appointed commissioners.

1. Dr Phindile Masangane
2. Dr Ntombifuthi Nxumalo
3. Ms Ndiambani Magadagela
4. Ms Shaamela Soobramoney
5. Dr Sarushen Pillay
6. Ms Catherine Constantinides
7. Ms Tracy-Lynn Field
8. Ms Khungeka Njobe
9. Ms Zaynab Sadan
10. Dr Dipak Patel
11. Dr Zwanani Titus Mathe
12. Cllr. Kenalemang Phukuntsi
13. Cllr Dr Nasiphi Moya
14. Dr Moegamad Riedwaan Gallant
15. Mr Cecil Monnanyana Mahlangu
16. Queen Neo Mononelo Mopeli 
17. Ms Thandile Zonke
18. Mr Errol Andile Mlambo
19. Prof Imraan Valodia
20. Prof Azwihangwisi Edward Nesamvuni
21. Ms Joanne Yawitch
22. Ms Boitumelo Molete
23. Mr Brandin Abdinor
24. Mr Waheed Hoosen
25. Ms Shamini Harrington

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Posted on

South Africa: President Ramaphosa expresses condolences following tragic fire in the Swiss Alps

Source: APO


.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the loss of life resulting from a devastating fire in the Swiss town of Crans-Montana in Switzerland on New Year’s Day, 1 January 2026.

On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, President Ramaphosa conveys heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as to the people and Government of the Swiss Confederation during this time of profound grief.

“South Africans stand in solidarity with the people of Switzerland as they mourn this tragic loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa also extended words of support to the emergency services and first responders who acted with courage and dedication in the face of this tragedy, and expressed confidence that the Swiss people will draw strength from their unity and resilience in this difficult moment.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

Posted on

Eritrea: National Confederation of Eritrean Workers (NCEW)-Meeting on action plan for 2026

Source: APO


.

The executive committee of the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers conducted an activity assessment meeting of 2025 and held discussions on the plan of action for 2026 in Asmara on 29 and 30 December.

The meeting conducted extensive discussions on the reports presented, focusing on labor relations; foreign relations; administration and finance; human resources development; women and youth workers; as well as public relations. The meeting also discussed the action plan for 2026.

According to the reports presented, the number of new employment opportunities increased by 18%; training programs were organized with a view to enhancing the capacity of workers and productivity; seminars focusing on safety and health were conducted; commendable initiatives were undertaken to develop relations with international organizations as well as newly established professional associations; and vocational training in seven fields was provided to 150 workers at the Massawa Workers’ Vocational Training Center.

The reports also indicated that special attention was provided to workers across the regions of the country, and encouraging activities were conducted to enhance the capacity of women workers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Posted on

Eritrea: Vocational training to youth in Central Region

Source: APO


.

Three months of theoretical and practical vocational training has been provided to 220 youth in Central sub-zone of the Central Region.

Mr. Sened Michael, head of the National Union of Eritrean Youth and Students branch in the sub-zone, said that 129 youth were provided training in first aid, 54 in beauty salon skills, and 39 in computer technology.

Noting that the training program was part of the effort exerted by the union branch to enhance the overall capacity of youth, Mr. Yohannes Berhane, head of projects of the union branch in the Central Region, called on the trainees to practically apply the knowledge they gained from the training.

The administrator of the sub-zone, Ms. Hiwet Mogos, on her part, indicating the significance of the training in enhancing the capacity of youth, called on the trainees to apply the knowledge they gained in improving their livelihoods.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

Posted on

Africa Finance Corporation Acts as Co-Financial Adviser for Angola’s Lobito Atlantic Railway Concession

Source: APO

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) (www.AfricaFC.org), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has announced the signing of key financing agreements for the Lobito Atlantic Railway Project in Angola. AFC alongside Eaglestone, acted as Co-Financial Adviser, to Lobito Atlantic Railway S.A. (LAR), the Borrower and Concessionaire of the 1,300-kilometre brownfield railway corridor.

This transformational transport infrastructure initiative is backed by leading sponsors including Mota-Engil, a multinational engineering and construction group with a strong presence across Africa; Trafigura, one of the world’s leading independent commodities trading and logistics companies, and Vecturis, an international rail operator with extensive experience in freight rail concessions, mobilising world-class technical, operational and commercial expertise to ensure the long-term success of the corridor.

The signing of the US$753 million financing package- consisting of US$553 million from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and US$200 million from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA),  marks a major milestone for the Lobito Atlantic Railway, a flagship regional infrastructure project that will rehabilitate, upgrade and operate the 1,300-kilometer brownfield rail line connecting the Port of Lobito on Angola’s Atlantic coast to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border, strengthening regional integration and improving access to global markets.

Beyond its trade and logistics benefits, the project is expected to deliver substantial development impact, including job creation during construction and operation, skills development, improved safety standards, and long-term economic opportunities for communities along the corridor. The financing package is expected to increase Lobito’s transportation capacity ten-fold to approximately 4.6 million metric tonnes per annum and to reduce the cost of transporting critical minerals by an estimated 30 percent.

“The signing of the financing agreements for the Lobito Atlantic Railway demonstrates the strength of AFC’s financial advisory expertise in structuring and advancing complex, cross-border infrastructure transactions of strategic significance. This initiative aligns with AFC’s broader development efforts to deliver a transformational transport corridor linking Angola, the DRC, and the wider Southern Africa region, reinforcing the critical role of integrated rail and port infrastructure in unlocking regional trade, industrial growth and supply-chain resilience”, said Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of Africa Finance Corporation. The Lobito Corridor is also of particular importance for Angola, one of AFC’s valued member countries and shareholders, reaffirming our long-standing commitment to supporting the country’s infrastructure development and economic priorities”, he added.

Nuno Gil, Founding Partner of Eaglestone, said: “We are delighted to have advised LAR in this landmark transport infrastructure transaction that is a key milestone to unlock regional trade and boost economic activity along the Lobito Corridor. The Eaglestone (http://apo-opa.co/49hIMqp) team can be proud in once again delivering world-class services within the project finance advisory industry in Southern Africa.”

Manuel Mota, Deputy CEO of Mota-Engil, said: “The signing with DFC, DBSA, and the Government of Angola marks the culmination of long-term collaboration, together with our partner, Trafigura, to advance the Lobito Corridor. This strategic agreement will expand transport capacity, reduce transit costs, and open access to the mineral-rich regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia. Mota-Engil’s participation underscores its commitment to deliver an infrastructure that supports Angola’s national priorities, economic diversification, and regional connectivity. This strategic financing not only enables further investment in the project but also reinforces confidence in Angola’s institutional capacity to attract interest for world-class infrastructure initiatives. We appreciate the expert advisory support from Eaglestone and AFC, whose guidance was instrumental in structuring this financing.”

Richard Holtum, CEO of Trafigura, said: “We are pleased that Lobito Atlantic Railway has secured financing from DFC and DBSA to further advance the rehabilitation and operation of the line in Angola. As a shareholder of LAR, we see the railway as a key domestic and regional asset that will drive economic development and support the movement of critical metals to global markets.”

AFC and Angola have forged a strong and mutually beneficial partnership over the years, strengthened by Angola’s accession as an AFC member state in 2022 and its progression to shareholder status in 2025. Today, AFC is deepening its footprint in the country through a growing portfolio of advisory and investment engagements across infrastructure, energy and industrial sectors, including AFC’s complementary greenfield railway project connecting to Angola.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).

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

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

Eighteen years on, AFC has developed a track record as the partner of choice in Africa for investing and delivering on instrumental, high-quality infrastructure assets that provide essential services in the core infrastructure sectors of power, natural resources, heavy industry, transport, and telecommunications. AFC has 47 member countries and has invested over US$17 billion in 36 African countries since its inception.

www.AfricaFC.org

Media files

.

Posted on

President Ramaphosa expresses condolences following tragic fire in the Swiss Alps

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the loss of life resulting from a devastating fire in the Swiss town of Crans-Montana in Switzerland on New Year’s Day, 1 January 2026.

On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, President Ramaphosa conveys heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, as well as to the people and Government of the Swiss Confederation during this time of profound grief.

“South Africans stand in solidarity with the people of Switzerland as they mourn this tragic loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa also extended words of support to the emergency services and first responders who acted with courage and dedication in the face of this tragedy, and expressed confidence that the Swiss people will draw strength from their unity and resilience in this difficult moment.

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Posted on

President Ramaphosa appoints new leadership for the Presidential Climate Commission

Source: President of South Africa –

President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced the new cohort of the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) for the 2026–2030 tenure, in terms of the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No 22 of 2024). 

Following due consideration of all submitted nominations, President Ramaphosa has appointed a total of twenty five(25)  commissioners who are representative of broader sections of South African society including business, labour, civil society, traditional leadership, youth and South African Local Government Association as the new commission

The commissioners bring in diverse experience and  relevant experience in climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, economic development, energy, social justice and were appointed with a strong consideration to achieving diversity in gender, age, geographic spread and background in line with national transformation goals and procedural justice principles.

The appointments are a culmination of a public nomination process, which was initiated in August this year in accordance with Section 10(4)(a) of the Climate Change Act. 

The initial establishment of the PCC was an outcome of the 2018 Presidential Jobs Summit, where social partners agreed to create a multi-stakeholder body to coordinate and oversee South Africa’s just transition to a low-carbon, inclusive and climate-resilient economy and society.

President Ramaphosa has reiterated his appreciation for the outgoing commissioners on their leadership and achievements over the first five years and commends their role in shaping domestic climate policy, fostering inclusive national dialogue, and amplifying South Africa’s Climate Diplomacy. 

The President calls on the new commissioners to individually and collectively continue to fulfil their role and mandate of providing independent, evidence-based advice; facilitate inclusive dialogue in the pursuit of a consensus to address South Africa’s complex climate and development agenda and to put into practice, the country’s just transition framework.

The President will announce the Deputy Chairperson at the first Meeting of the Commission in 2026 and further outline high-level priorities for the Commission for the next five years.  

Herewith is the list of the appointed commissioners.

1. Dr Phindile Masangane
2. Dr Ntombifuthi Nxumalo
3. Ms Ndiambani Magadagela
4. Ms Shaamela Soobramoney
5. Dr Sarushen Pillay
6. Ms Catherine Constantinides
7. Ms Tracy-Lynn Field
8. Ms Khungeka Njobe
9. Ms Zaynab Sadan
10. Dr Dipak Patel
11. Dr Zwanani Titus Mathe
12. Cllr. Kenalemang Phukuntsi
13. Cllr Dr Nasiphi Moya
14. Dr Moegamad Riedwaan Gallant
15. Mr Cecil Monnanyana Mahlangu
16. Queen Neo Mononelo Mopeli 
17. Ms Thandile Zonke
18. Mr Errol Andile Mlambo
19. Prof Imraan Valodia
20. Prof Azwihangwisi Edward Nesamvuni
21. Ms Joanne Yawitch
22. Ms Boitumelo Molete
23. Mr Brandin Abdinor
24. Mr Waheed Hoosen
25. Ms Shamini Harrington

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

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Posted on

CEO da Fundação Merck e Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe discutiram seus programas conjuntos para promover capacidade do sistema de saúde e combater o estigma da infertilidade durante a 12ª Edição da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck 2025

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

Fundação Merck (www.Merck-Foundation.com), O braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha realizou recentemente a 12ª Edição da sua conferência anual, “Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck”, em parceria com o Governo da Gâmbia. A conferência foi copresidida por S. Exa. Sra. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, Primeira-Dama da Gâmbia e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck Mais do Que uma Mãe, e pela Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck e Presidente da Mais do Que uma Mãe. A Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe, S. Exa. Sra. Maria de Fátima Vila Nova, juntamente com as Primeiras-Damas do Burundi, da República Centro Africana, da Libéria, da Nigéria e do Senegal, participaram como Convidadas de Honra e Oradoras Principais.

A Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej (aposentada) enfatizou: “Foi um prazer manter encontro com a minha querida irmã, S. Exa. Sra. Maria de Fátima Vila Nova, Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”. Discutimos os nossos programas conjuntos e reforçamos o nosso compromisso com o desenvolvimento da capacidade do sistema de saúde e a transformação do cenário de atendimento ao paciente, através da oferta de bolsas de estudo para médicos locais. Já iniciamos o processo de inscrição de médicos para os cursos de Oncologia e Diabetes.

“Além disso, estou muito feliz que ela planeia transmitir os nossos filmes de animação em português nas emissoras televisivas nacionais. Isso ajudará significativamente a aumentar a conscientização sobre importantes questões sociais e de saúde de uma forma informativa e envolvente. ”

S. Exa., a Sra. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, partilhou: “É uma grande honra participar da 12ª Edição da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck e manter encontro com as minhas queridas irmãs, as Primeiras-Damas Africanas, e a Dra. Rasha Kelej. Introduzimos no nosso país o programa “Educar Linda e Lindo”, que é muito importante para mim, pois oferece a crianças merecedoras, mas carentes, a oportunidade de atingir seu pleno potencial e prosperar na vida. Juntos, oferecemos bolsas de estudo anuais para 40 alunos de destaque, porém carentes, até a formatura.

Além disso, quero partilhar que gostei dos Filmes de Animação da Fundação Merck e em breve os exibiremos nas nossas emissoras televisivas nacionais. Acredito firmemente que o nosso povo gostará desses filmes e se beneficiará muito das suas importantes mensagens sociais e de saúde.

Assista aqui ao discurso da Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe e Embaixadora da Fundação Merck, “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, durante o evento da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck 2025:  https://apo-opa.co/3Lrg9PK

“A Fundação Merck sempre acreditou na importância de desenvolver a capacidade da área da saúde e tem trabalhado para isso desde 2012. Até o momento, concedemos 2.500 bolsas de estudo para profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas carentes. Continuaremos a oferecer bolsas de estudo para médicos de São Tomé e Príncipe e de outros países”, acrescentou a Dra. Rasha Kelej.

No primeiro dia da conferência, ocorreu a Sessão Plenária da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação Merck 2025, com discursos inaugurais das Primeiras-Damas Africanas. Além disso, também foi realizado um painel de discussão ministerial de alto nível com Ministros Africanos.

No segundo dia da conferência, foi realizada a reunião do comité da Iniciativa Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck (MFFLI) entre as Primeiras-Damas da África, o Presidente e a CEO da Fundação Merck, onde as Primeiras-Damas Africanas compartilharam o relatório de impacto dos programas da Fundação Merck nos seus respectivos países bem como discutiram a estratégia da sua parceria.

Assista ao vídeo da reunião do comite MFFLI.: https://apo-opa.co/493cDEh

A Fundação Merck, em conjunto com o gabinete da Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe, também realizou duas edições de Treinamento Online em Mídia da Saúde para enfatizar o papel crucial da mídia na abordagem de questões sociais e de saúde críticas.

A Fundação Merck também anunciou a abertura de candidaturas para seus 8 importantes prémios, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe, nas áreas de mídia, música, estilos de moda, cinema, estudantes e novos talentos promissores nesses campos.

Além disso, em parceria com a Primeira-Dama de São Tomé e Príncipe, a Fundação Merck também lançou livros infantis: “Mais do Que uma Mãe”, “Educar Linda”, “Resgate da jaqueline”, “Você Não É Quem É”, “viagem ao Futuro”, “Jude Sem Açúcar” e “Pressão de Mark”. Os livros, lançados em português, abordam diversas questões sociais e de saúde, como o combate ao estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas, o combate à violência do género e a conscientização sobre a diabetes e a hipertensão.

A 12ª Edição da Luminária África Ásia da Fundação foi transmitida em directo nas redes sociais da Fundação Merck e da Senadora Dra. Rasha Kelej, CEO da Fundação Merck.

@ Fundação Merck: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3LrgbXS), X (http://apo-opa.co/3YU47S2), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4stPfaP), e YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/49o3ogX).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/495r8HG), X (http://apo-opa.co/3YnUg6T), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4jpKRFy), e YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4bbLy35).

Link para a transmissão em directo no Facebook da Sessão Inaugural do Painel de Alto Nível das Primeiras-Damas da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/4ss8gKO

Resumo das iniciativas e do impacto da Fundação Merck:

A Fundação Merck está a transformar o cenário do atendimento ao paciente e fazer história junto com os seus parceiros em África, Ásia e em outros lugares, por meio de:

• Mais de 2.500 bolsas de estudo concedidas pela Fundação Merck a profissionais de saúde de 52 países em 44 especialidades médicas essenciais e carentes.

A Fundação Merck também está a promover uma mudança cultural e quebrar o silêncio sobre uma ampla gama de questões sociais e de saúde em África e em comunidades carentes por meio de:

• Mais de 3.700 representantes da mídia de mais de 35 países treinados pela Fundação Merck para conscientizar sobre diferentes questões sociais e de saúde.

• 8 prémios diferentes lançados anualmente para melhor cobertura da mídia, filme, música e moda.

• Cerca de 30 músicas que abordam questões de saúde e sociais, compostas por cantores locais de toda a África.

• 9 livros infantis em quatro línguas: inglês, francês, português e swahíli.

• 6 filmes de animação de conscientização em cinco línguas: inglês, francês, português, espanhol e swahíli, para conscientizar sobre o combate ao estigma da infertilidade, o apoio à educação de meninas e a prevenção e detecção precoce da diabetes, da hipertensão e do cancro.

• Programa televisivo pan-africano “Nossa África da Fundação Merck” abordando questões sociais e de saúde em África por meio da comunidade “Moda e Arte com Propósito”.

• Mais de 1200 bolsas de estudo concedidas a estudantes africanas de alto desempenho, mas de baixa renda, para empoderá-las a concluir os seus estudos.

• 15 canais de mídia social com mais de 8,5 milhões de seguidores.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Merck Foundation.

Contato:
Mehak Handa
Gerente do Programa de Conscientização Comunitária
Telefone: +91 9310087613 / +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Junte-se à conversa nas plataformas das nossas mídias sociais e deixe a sua voz ser ouvida!
Facebook: http://apo-opa.co/3LrgbXS 
X: http://apo-opa.co/3YU47S2 
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/49o3ogX 
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4stPfaP 
Threads: http://apo-opa.co/49BDO9l 
Flickr: http://apo-opa.co/49k95wa 
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com 
Baixar a Aplicação da Fundação Merck: https://apo-opa.co/49BHtUA

Sobre Fundação Merck:
A Fundação Merck, criada em 2017, é o braço filantrópico da Merck KGaA Alemanha e visa melhorar a saúde e o bem-estar das pessoas e impulsionar suas vidas por meio da ciência e da tecnologia. Nossos esforços concentram-se principalmente em melhorar o acesso a soluções de saúde de qualidade e equitativas em comunidades carentes, fortalecer a capacidade em saúde e pesquisa científica, empoderar meninas na educação e empoderar pessoas em STEM (Ciência, Tecnologia, Engenharia e Matemática), com foco especial em mulheres e jovens. Todos os comunicados de imprensa da Fundação Merck são distribuídos por e-mail ao mesmo tempo em que são disponibilizados no site da Fundação Merck.  Visite www.Merck-Foundation.com para ler mais. Siga as redes sociais da Fundação Merck: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/3LrgbXS), X (http://apo-opa.co/3YU47S2), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4stPfaP), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/49o3ogX), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/49BDO9l) e Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/49k95wa).

A Fundação Merck dedica-se a melhorar os resultados sociais e de saúde de comunidades carentes. Embora colabore com diversos parceiros, incluindo governos, para alcançar os seus objectivos humanitários, a fundação permanece estritamente neutra em questões políticas. Não se envolve nem apoia quaisquer actividades, eleições ou regimes políticos, concentrando-se exclusivamente na sua missão de elevar a humanidade e promover o bem-estar, mantendo uma postura estritamente apolítica em todos os seus esforços.

Media files

Baixar .tipo

Posted on

Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and São Tomé & Príncipe First Lady discussed their joint programs to advance healthcare capacity and Break Infertility Stigma during the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, recently 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, The 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. The First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe, H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, along with The First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, Liberia, Nigeria, and Senegal joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) emphasized “It was a pleasure meeting my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”, we discussed our joint programs and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local doctors. We have already started to enroll doctors for Oncology and Diabetes Care.

Moreover, I am very happy that she plans to broadcast our animation films in Portuguese on the national TV stations. This will significantly help raise awareness about important social and health issues in an informative and engaging way.”

H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” shared, “It is a great honor to be part of the 12th edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary and to meet my dear sisters African First Ladies and Dr. Rasha Kelej.  We have introduced in our country the “Educating Linda and Lindo” program, which is very close to my heart as it provides an opportunity to deserving but under privileged children to reach their full potential and thrive in life. Together, we are providing annual scholarships for 40 best performing but underprivileged schoolgirls and boys till they graduate.

Moreover, I want to share that I liked the Merck Foundation Animation Films, and we will soon air them on our national TV stations. I strongly believe that our people will enjoy these films and greatly benefit from their important social and health messages”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe & Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” during the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 here:  https://apo-opa.co/3Lrg9PK

“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 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 underserved medical specialties. We will continue to provide scholarships for doctors from Sao Tome and beyond,” added Dr. Rasha Kelej.

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/493cDEh

Merck Foundation together with the office of The First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe has also conducted 2 editions of Online Health Media Training to emphasize on the critical role of media in addressing critical social and health issues.

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

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe, Merck Foundation has also launched children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark’s Pressure”. The storybooks launched in Portuguese language, address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. The storybooks have been launched in Portuguese language.

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/3LrgbXS), X (http://apo-opa.co/3YU47S2), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4stPfaP), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/49o3ogX).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/495r8HG), X (http://apo-opa.co/3YnUg6T), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4jpKRFy), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4bbLy35).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4ss8gKO

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:

  • 2500+ 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 in English, French, Portuguese, and local languages.
  • 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/3LrgbXS 
X: http://apo-opa.co/3YU47S2 
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/49o3ogX 
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4stPfaP 
Threads: http://apo-opa.co/49BDO9l 
Flickr: http://apo-opa.co/49k95wa 
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/49BHtUA

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/3LrgbXS), X (http://apo-opa.co/3YU47S2), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4stPfaP), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/49o3ogX), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/49BDO9l) and Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/49k95wa).

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.

Media files

.

Posted on

Jokpeme Joseph Omode, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alexa News Network Limited, Ushers in 2026 with a Message of Resilience and Empathy

Source: APO

As the world welcomes the New Year, Jokpeme Joseph Omode, the visionary Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Alexa News Network Limited (www.Alexa.ng), has released a heartfelt message celebrating the arrival of 2026 as a year of resilience, empathy, hope, and collective growth.

In his New Year address, Omode reflected on the challenges and triumphs of the past year, emphasizing the power of human resilience in overcoming adversity and the essential role of empathy in building stronger communities. “The dawn of a new year reminds us that resilience is not just survival—it is the quiet strength that turns trials into triumphs,” Omode stated. “In 2025, we witnessed moments of profound difficulty across the globe, yet through empathy and shared humanity, we emerged stronger, more connected, and more determined.”

Omode extended profound gratitude to the platform’s partners, dedicated readers, and global audience for their unwavering support, which he described as the foundation of Alexa News Network’s continued success. “To our esteemed partners, advertisers, collaborators, and stakeholders—your trust and strategic alliances have fueled our mission to deliver credible, impactful journalism,” he said. “To our loyal readers, journalists, contributors, and supporters in Nigeria and around the world—you are the heartbeat of Alexa News Network. Your engagement, feedback, and loyalty have driven our growth, expanded our reach, and inspired us to uphold the highest standards of ethical reporting.”

The world steps into a new year filled with renewed hope and possibility, Jokpeme Joseph Omode extended a heartfelt message of gratitude and optimism to partners, readers, and the global audience.

He particularly celebrated the global audience for embracing the platform’s transition to a broader international focus following its recent rebranding to Alexa News Network. “Making it to this new year together fills us with immense hope and optimism for growth,” Omode added. “Your readership has transformed us into a truly global voice, amplifying stories that empower, inform, and unite.”

Looking ahead, Omode reaffirmed Alexa News Network Limited’s commitment to balanced, insightful journalism that fosters understanding and positive change. “In 2026, let us embrace resilience to face challenges head-on and empathy to bridge divides. Together, we will continue telling stories that matter—stories of hope, progress, and shared prosperity.”

As fireworks light up skies worldwide, Omode’s message resonates as a call for unity and renewal, inspiring all to step into the new year with renewed purpose.In his New Year address, Omode reflected on the defining values that carried communities through challenges and triumphs alike—resilience and empathy. He noted that in an ever-changing world, these qualities have remained essential in shaping responsible journalism and strengthening the bond between media and society.

“This new year reminds us that resilience is not just about enduring difficulties, but about growing stronger through them,” Omode said. “Empathy, on the other hand, keeps us human—it ensures that every story we tell reflects understanding, compassion, and truth.”

He expressed deep appreciation to Alexa News Network Limited’s partners for their unwavering collaboration, to readers for their trust and engagement, and to the global audience whose diverse perspectives continue to enrich the platform.

“Your support has been the backbone of our journey,” he added. “Together, we have made it into a new year—one filled with opportunity, innovation, and shared purpose.”

Looking ahead, Omode reaffirmed Alexa News Network Limited’s commitment to credible reporting, inclusive storytelling, and impactful journalism that informs, inspires, and unites people across borders.

As the new year unfolds, the company embraces a future defined by hope, growth, and a collective resolve to tell stories that matter—stories that not only report events, but also amplify voices and foster understanding in a global community.

Happy New Year from Jokpeme Joseph Omode and the entire Alexa News Network Limited team!

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Nigeria.

Media files

.