Category: Africa

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Alexa News Nigeria Rebrands to Alexa News Network, Sets Sights on Global Digital Reach

Source: APO


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In a bold move reflecting its vision for international prominence, Alexa News Nigeria (www.Alexa.ng) has officially rebranded as Alexa News Network (www.Alexa.ng), signaling a strategic shift from a predominantly Nigerian digital news platform to a global digital news network. The rebranding is designed to expand the platform’s reach, enhance its international news coverage, and position Alexa News Network as a credible voice in the global media landscape. All contents and links are still working. The domain name was not changed but only branding name was changed.

The Alexa News Network announcement was made during a press briefing held at the company’s headquarters in Abuja, where the leadership team outlined their ambitious plans to transform Alexa News Network into a world-class digital news network. The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Alexa News Network, Jokpeme Joseph Omode, emphasized that the rebrand is more than a change of name—it is a declaration of the company’s commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and comprehensive news to audiences beyond Nigeria.

“Alexa News Nigeria has grown to become one of the most respected digital news platforms in the country,” the CEO said. “But as the world becomes more interconnected, we realized that our audience is not limited to Nigeria alone. Today, we step into a new era as Alexa News Network, with a renewed focus on global digital reach, international reporting, and multimedia storytelling that resonates worldwide.”

The rebrand comes at a time when digital news consumption is surging globally. With millions of people turning to online platforms for instant news updates, Alexa News Network aims to leverage technology to provide real-time news coverage across borders. The network plans to offer content through its website, mobile apps, social media chAlexa News Networkels, podcasts, and live streaming services, ensuring that audiences worldwide can access news conveniently and efficiently.

One of the key components of Alexa News Network’s global strategy is the expansion of international reporting. The network plans to establish bureaus in strategic locations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas, employing correspondents and stringers to cover major political, economic, social, and cultural developments. By doing so, Alexa News Network aims to provide firsthand reporting on issues of global importance, rather than relying solely on syndicated content from other agencies.

“Our goal is to become a trusted global news source that offers authentic and insightful reporting from every corner of the world,” said Jokpeme Joseph Omode. Partnerships form a critical aspect of Alexa News Network’s global vision. The network has Alexa News Networkounced plans to collaborate with leading international media agencies, think tanks, non-governmental organizations, and global news platforms, creating a network of partnerships that will facilitate the exchange of content, data, and insights. These collaborations are expected to enhance Alexa News Network’s reporting capabilities and credibility on the international stage.

From a technological perspective, Alexa News Network is investing in state-of-the-art digital infrastructure. This includes developing a robust website, intuitive mobile applications, and scalable content management systems capable of supporting multimedia content and high traffic from global audiences. Alexa News Network will also implement advanced search engine optimization (SEO) strategies and leverage social media algorithms to ensure its stories reach readers efficiently across continents.

The rebrand to Alexa News Network reflects a larger ambition to compete with established global news brands while maintaining a unique African perspective. Unlike many international outlets, Alexa News Network intends to provide a nuanced view of African stories and global events, highlighting connections and implications that are often overlooked by mainstream media. This approach is expected to attract audiences seeking diverse and insightful perspectives.

Financial sustainability is also central to Alexa News Network’s global strategy. The network plans to diversify its revenue streams through a combination of subscriptions, memberships, advertising, sponsored content, and partnerships with international organizations. By doing so, Alexa News Network aims to maintain editorial independence while expanding its operations on a global scale.

The leadership of Alexa News Network believes that the rebranding will not only elevate the platform’s international profile but also create opportunities for Nigerian journalists and media professionals. By integrating local expertise with global reporting standards, Alexa News Network aims to nurture talent capable of delivering world-class journalism.

Jokpeme Joseph Omode noted, “This is a strategic and timely move. The transition from Alexa News Nigeria to Alexa News Network demonstrates ambition and vision. With the right execution, Alexa News Network has the potential to become a major player in the global digital news industry, offering unique insights from Africa while engaging audiences worldwide.”

The official launch of Alexa News Network comes with a refreshed logo, website design, and digital platforms, reflecting a modern, professional, and globally-oriented brand identity. The leadership team has assured readers and partners that while the platform is going global, it will continue to uphold journalistic integrity, transparency, and commitment to truth, which have been hallmarks of its success in Nigeria.

As Alexa News Network charts its path toward becoming a global digital news network, the initiative represents more than a business expansion—it is a statement of confidence in the ability of African media to shape narratives on a global stage. The rebrand signals a transformative era where Alexa News Network seeks to deliver news that informs, inspires, and influences audiences around the world.

With this bold step, Alexa News Network joins the ranks of international news organizations seeking to bridge local perspectives with global coverage, positioning itself as a credible, reliable, and accessible source of news for audiences worldwide. The world now has a new platform committed to delivering quality journalism from Africa to the globe, heralding a new chapter in digital media excellence.

In an era where digital media is reshaping how stories are told and consumed worldwide, the Alexa News Network is embarking on an ambitious journey to establish itself as a premier global digital news network rooted in African perspectives. This initiative goes far beyond mere business growth or market expansion; it embodies a profound declaration of faith in the power and potential of African journalism to influence, educate, and redefine global narratives. By charting this path, the Alexa News Network is not just entering the international arena—it is actively claiming a seat at the table, ensuring that voices from the continent are heard loudly and clearly amid the cacophony of worldwide media.

Historically, global news has often been dominated by Western outlets, with African stories frequently filtered through external lenses that emphasize conflict, poverty, or exoticism rather than innovation, resilience, and progress. The emergence of the Alexa News Network signals a pivotal shift, marking the dawn of a transformative period in media where African-led platforms take center stage. This network aims to deliver news that not only informs audiences about current events but also inspires them with tales of achievement and cultural richness, while influencing public opinion on critical issues ranging from climate change and economic development to politics and social justice.

What sets the Alexa News Network apart is its commitment to bridging the gap between local African insights and global coverage. In a world increasingly interconnected through digital platforms, this network positions itself alongside established giants like CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera, yet with a unique focus on authenticity and accessibility. It seeks to provide credible, reliable reporting that draws from on-the-ground experiences across Africa’s diverse nations— from the bustling markets of Lagos to the innovative tech hubs in Nairobi, and from the vibrant cultural scenes in Cape Town to the political dynamics in Addis Ababa.

This bold move comes at a time when digital media consumption is exploding globally, particularly on mobile devices and social platforms prevalent in Africa. With smartphone penetration rising rapidly across the continent, the Alexa News Network is poised to capitalize on this trend by offering multilingual content, real-time updates, and interactive features tailored to diverse audiences. The network’s vision includes high-quality journalism that adheres to ethical standards, fact-checking rigor, and balanced reporting, countering misinformation while amplifying underrepresented stories.

By becoming a global player, the Alexa News Network joins a select group of international news organizations that recognize the importance of diverse viewpoints in fostering understanding and dialogue. It stands as a beacon for other African media entities, demonstrating that homegrown platforms can achieve worldwide reach without compromising their cultural integrity. This is particularly significant in an age where global challenges—such as pandemics, migration, and environmental crises—demand inclusive narratives that reflect the experiences of all regions, including Africa’s 1.4 billion people.

The implications of this expansion are profound. For audiences worldwide, it means access to fresh, nuanced perspectives on international affairs. Imagine reading in-depth analyses of how African economies are driving sustainable development goals, or firsthand accounts of technological breakthroughs emerging from the continent’s startups. For African journalists and contributors, it opens doors to greater visibility, professional opportunities, and the chance to shape discourses that have long been dominated elsewhere.

Moreover, the Alexa News Network’s approach emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that its content is available across various digital channels, from websites and apps to social media and podcasts. This inclusivity aligns with the democratic ethos of modern journalism, making quality news reachable to urban elites, rural communities, and diaspora populations alike. In doing so, it heralds a new chapter in digital media excellence, where excellence is measured not just by reach but by relevance and impact.

This initiative also reflects growing confidence in Africa’s media landscape. Over the past decade, the continent has seen a surge in independent outlets, investigative reporting, and digital innovations. Platforms like this are building on that foundation, leveraging technology to overcome traditional barriers such as distribution challenges and funding constraints. By going global, the Alexa News Network inspires a wave of similar ventures, potentially fostering a renaissance in African storytelling that resonates far beyond continental borders.

In essence, the world now welcomes a new platform dedicated to delivering unparalleled quality journalism from Africa to every corner of the globe. The Alexa News Network’s ascent represents hope for a more equitable media ecosystem—one where African narratives are not peripheral but central. As it delivers news that informs minds, inspires hearts, and influences decisions, this network ushers in an exciting era of digital media where diversity drives excellence.

This transformative step underscores a broader movement: African media rising to claim its rightful place on the global stage. With unwavering commitment to truth, innovation, and inclusivity, the Alexa News Network is not just reporting the news—it’s making history by redefining how the world sees and understands Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Alexa News Nigeria.

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Bafana Bafana congratulated for AFCON opening victory

Source: Government of South Africa

Bafana Bafana congratulated for AFCON opening victory

Government has congratulated Bafana Bafana for their win over Angola in the national football team’s opening game of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

The tournament is being held in Morocco this month with the final expected to be held on 18 January.

“The thrilling performance sets a positive tone for South Africa’s AFCON campaign and reflects the resilience, discipline and fighting spirit that define our national team,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement on Tuesday.

Bafana Bafana’s charge to victory on Monday night in the tournament is being led by coach Hugo Broos supported by South African football legend, Helman Mkhalele, as assistant coach.

“Government commends the technical team and players for their preparation and professionalism, as well as the South African supporters at home and abroad whose unwavering support continues to inspire the team. The match showcased the growing competitiveness of African football and highlighted Bafana Bafana’s determination to compete with confidence and purpose.

“Government wishes Bafana Bafana continued success in their remaining Group B fixtures and throughout the tournament and calls on all South Africans to rally behind the team as they pursue further victories at AFCON 2025,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

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Ntshavheni urges commitment to ceasefire in DRC

Source: Government of South Africa

Ntshavheni urges commitment to ceasefire in DRC

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, has issued an appeal for an immediate end to hostilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – urging conflicting parties to honour their pledges for peace. 

The Minister was delivering remarks at the Ad Hoc Summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework for the DRC and region.

“South Africa appeals to the conflicting parties in the DRC to demonstrate political will and selfless leadership that this occasion requires. The parties must fulfil their previous commitments to establish a permanent, effective and verifiable ceasefire; they must engage in inclusive dialogue that will lead to peace and reconciliation; and they must put the interest of the people of the DRC first. 

“Peace will endure when the people of the DRC unite for the purpose of building one Congolese nation and redirect their collective efforts towards the economic development of the DRC and the region,” the Minister said.

Ntshavheni noted that conflict in the area continues despite the presence of a number of external peace efforts all “aimed primarily to deal with the scourge of armed conflicts and their impact on the people of the eastern DRC and its immediate region”.

“The actions of armed groups, particularly the M23 and FDLR [Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda], continue to undermine the PSC [Peace, Security and Cooperation] Framework and other ongoing peace processes.

“The territorial expansion of the M23 including the recent seizure of Uvira, the establishment of parallel administrations in captured and controlled areas, and the violation of human rights and the resultant humanitarian crisis, negate efforts towards peace and opportunities for regional economic development.”

The Minister told the gathering that the deadly conflict requires immediate action through genuine, inclusive dialogue among all parties.

“We must act as a collective to prevent any further regional instability. It is for this reason that South Africa strongly urges for the need to return to the basics. We need to ask and honestly answer the question of why, despite several agreements on the resolution of the eastern DRC security situation, are we failing to achieve peace and lasting security.

“Peace would only be achieved through an inclusive process that addresses holistically the root causes and drivers of the conflict in the eastern DRC and the region. In our view, the lack of implementation of the various agreements by all parties is a major challenge.

“If we are serious about achieving lasting peace, for a start, we must ensure that all parties must fulfill their commitments made as signatories to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework,” she said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

NeoB

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Gauteng commends police for arrest in Saulsville shooting incident

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng commends police for arrest in Saulsville shooting incident

The Gauteng Provincial Government has commended the South African Police Service for tracking and arresting a suspect wanted in connection with a deadly shooting in Saulsville, Pretoria. 

“The Gauteng Provincial Government commends the South African Police Service for its coordinated and relentless enforcement effort which led to the identification, tracking, and arrest of a suspect in connection with the horrific shooting at the Saulsville Hostel in Atteridgeville. The nationwide hunt for the suspects culminated in the arrest of a 32- year-old man in Limpopo,” said the provincial government said on Tuesday.

On 6 December 2024, three suspects shot and killed 12 people and injured 13 others at an illegal shebeen operating from a hostel room in Saulsville. The investigation team has been working tirelessly to trace the perpetrators.

Earlier this month, National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola visited the hostel that is located west of Pretoria where the 25 individuals were shot. At the time of the incident, police confirmed that 11 of those shot suffered fatal injuries.

In a statement on Monday, the SAPS in Gauteng confirmed the arrest of the suspect wanted on the case of 12 counts of murder and 13 counts of attempted murder. 

“The suspect was arrested in Limpopo province on 21 December 2025.The team, comprising of various SAPS specialised units including Crime Intelligence, during investigations traced the suspect who was travelling to Botlokwa in Limpopo. They called the police in Limpopo and gave the description of the suspect and the vehicle he was travelling in. The 32-year-old suspect was intercepted by Limpopo Tracking Team on the R101 Road in Westenburg precinct,” said the police in statement.

During the arrest, the team recovered an unlicensed firearm, handgun, believed to have been used in the commission of the multiple murders.

The firearm will be taken to the Forensic Science Laboratory for ballistic analysis while the suspect was due to appear in court on Monday, 22 December on charges of the possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. 

The man was also due to be transferred to Gauteng to face the full might of the law while the manhunt for the remaining two suspects is continuing.

The Gauteng Provincial Government said the arrest is a “critical breakthrough” in the matter that claimed the lives of 12 innocent people, including a three-year-old child.

Acting Premier Jacob Mamabolo expressed his profound appreciation for the diligent work of the police. 
“The arrest in Saulsville shows that our law enforcement agencies are diligently working hard to identify the perpetrators of these heinous acts in the province. We salute them and have full confidence in their resolve and ability to apprehend those responsible and bring them to justice,” he said.

He also expressed hope that the remaining suspects in this case will be tracked down and apprehended soon. 

Meanwhile, Mamabolo will be visiting the families of the victims of another brutal mass shooting that claimed nine lives and left 10 others injured at Tambo Section, Bekkersdal. 

He expressed the same hope that the police will make swift arrests in the Bekkersdal case. 

” We hope the police will make a breakthrough in the Bekkersdal shooting investigations soon, and we assure them of our full support in their efforts to track and arrest these dangerous criminals who have shown total disregard for human life and disdain for the law. We will spare no effort to ensure that justice is served for all the victims and their grieving families,” said the Acting Premier.

READ | Gauteng to intensify tavern crackdown following Bekkersdal shooting
–SAnews.gov.za 

 

 

Neo

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DSTI supports SIU investigation into maladministration allegations

Source: Government of South Africa

DSTI supports SIU investigation into maladministration allegations

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) has pledged its support to the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) as the corruption busting unit investigates allegations of serious maladministration and improper or unlawful conduct in the affairs of the department.

This after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation authorising the SIU to conduct an investigation into procurement in relation to four specific project funding agreements for vaccine research and development.

The unit said the contracts were entered into by or on behalf of the department’s entities namely, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research.

“As the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation, we remain committed to upholding clean and ethical governance within the department and its entities and therefore pledge to support the SIU in conducting its work.
“We also wish to reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that our country develops sustainable and sovereign vaccine manufacturing capacity,” the DSTI said on Monday.

The department added that it is “fully aware of the issues referred to in the SIU’s proclamation”.

“Over the past several months, under the leadership of the Director-General, the department has been involved in an internal process to proactively establish the veracity and where relevant, address the alleged irregularities relating to the specific contractual agreements mentioned in the SIU Proclamation.
 

“This process is on-going,” it said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

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Young people urged to steer clear of drugs and alcohol abuse

Source: Government of South Africa

Young people urged to steer clear of drugs and alcohol abuse

As festive season celebrations get underway, the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD) has called on young people to avoid alcohol and substance abuse.

The department warns that while this period is often one of “celebration, rest and social connection,” it also gives rise to troubling and dangerous behaviours that can turn joy into tragedy. 

“[It] is also a period that consistently records increased levels of alcohol and substance abuse, which contribute to road accidents, crime, family conflict, unsafe sexual behaviour, and heightened incidents of gender-based violence and femicide.

“These outcomes stand in direct contradiction to the government’s commitment to protecting young people and building safe, cohesive communities,” the department said.

In a statement on Monday, the department said the objectives of the National Drug Master Plan (NDMP) and the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP on GBVF) aim to protect citizens against ills.

“The [NDMP] recognises substance abuse as a major social and public health challenge that disproportionately affects young people and undermines social stability, economic participation and community safety. Alcohol and drug abuse fuel risky behaviour, violence and long-term dependency, placing an enormous burden on families, communities and the state.

“Similarly, the [NSP] on GBVF identifies alcohol and substance abuse as key drivers of violence, particularly violence against women, children and persons with disabilities. Evidence continues to show a strong correlation between substance abuse and incidents of domestic violence, sexual offences and other forms of gender-based harm, especially during high-risk periods such as the festive season.

“DWYPD calls on young people to make responsible choices, to reject harmful behaviours, and to actively contribute to the prevention of violence and substance abuse. Young men, in particular, are encouraged to embrace positive masculinity, respect and non-violence, and to stand as allies in the fight against GBVF,” the DWYPD noted.

Parents, guardians and the community are also urged to “intensify prevention efforts, provide guidance and support to young people, and promote alcohol- and drug-free recreational activities”.

“Preventing substance abuse and GBVF requires a whole-of-society approach, as envisioned in both the NDMP and the NSP on GBVF.

“The department reiterates that responsible behaviour by young people is central to achieving the goals of a safer South Africa, free from violence, substance abuse and preventable loss of life. As the country enters the festive season, the DWYPD appeals to all South Africans to work together to ensure that this period is marked by safety, dignity, respect for human life and shared responsibility,” the department concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

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Africa24 Group: Suspension of Broadcasting in Guinea; False Allegations and Abusive Actions

Source: APO


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On Sunday, 22 December 2025, the Africa 24 Group (https://Africa24TV.com/) received a letter from the President of the High Authority for Communication (HAC) via our distribution partner, the Canal+ Group, entitled “Decision No. 025/ HAC/P/25‘ with the subject line ’Suspension of broadcasting of the AFRICA 24 television channel for illegal operation in the Republic of Guinea”

The Africa 24 Group is accused of covering the presidential campaign in Guinea without authorisation. This assertion is based on false allegations without any prior verification.

This decision is an abusive action.

In fact, without authorisation from the HAC, which had set 18 December 2025 as the mandatory media accreditation period in an official press release, the Africa 24 Group has not deployed any resources on the national territory of Guinea to cover the 2025 presidential campaign.

Since 14 December 2025, no member of the ANA agency or the Africa 24 Group has been staying in Guinea or has covered any meetings or reported on the territory of Guinea.

The ANA agency has carried out only one activity in Guinea, outside the mandatory media accreditation period for the campaign. Mindful of its obligation to comply with regulatory institutions, it previously and officially informed the HAC of this by letter dated 4 December 2025, which the HAC acknowledged receipt of.

From 9 to 13 December 2025, ANA conducted a series of interviews and debates for its programme ‘Africa News Room’ in a private studio with Amadou OURY BAH, the Prime Minister and Campaign Director of the President of the Republic, candidate Mamadi Doumbouya, several candidates, and political and government figures.

These multiple programmes, which truly reflect the plurality of political opinions in Guinea, have been and continue to be broadcast in their entirety and used in a variety of editorial ways by the participants, enabling them to share their vision for Guinea’s development with a very large audience.

The HAC’s decision states: ‘the monitoring service’s reports noting the broadcast of reports produced on national territory on the election campaign without prior authorisation from the High Authority for Communication’

In this regard, the images and reports on Guinea broadcast on Africa 24 in the context of the presidential election come almost exclusively from the video services of each presidential candidate transmitted digitally, the group’s production archives and illustrative images. This fact can be verified by any means.

The Africa 24 Group works with the Afrimedia News Agency (ANA), an independent video news agency responsible for providing it with news content on African countries.

On 18 December 2025, the High Authority for Audiovisual Communication published an official statement ‘Regarding accreditation for media coverage of the presidential election on 28 December 2025’ inviting “press associations, directors of press organisations, and foreign press correspondents wishing to cover the election to provide a list of designated journalists and technicians.” The deadline for compliance set by the High Authority for Communication was 22 December 2025.

Keen to comply strictly with the HAC’s guidelines, the ANA media agency submitted an accreditation request on 19 December 2025 on behalf of Mr MAMADOU SYLLA, a freelance journalist who holds a press card.

Africa 24 is deeply surprised by the explanatory statement accompanying the decision, which states: ‘The accreditation application for the Africa 24 channel currently under review by the High Authority for Communication has been delayed due to the lack of documents required by law.’

Neither Mamadou Sylla, the ANA media agency, nor Africa 24 have to date received any notification from the High Authority for Communication requesting additional information or documents.

The Africa 24 Group, which has never broken any law in Guinea, fully respects the prerogatives of the High Authority for Communication.

After a thorough analysis of the decision of the High Authority for Communication of Guinea, Africa 24 took the precaution of submitting the decision to the highest legal authorities in Guinea and on the continent.

The conclusion is as follows:

• The Africa 24 Group cannot be accused of any illegal activity in Guinea for one proven reason: Africa 24 has never had any infrastructure, legal entity or staff on Guinean soil.

• The Africa 24 Group, through its activities, cannot meet the criteria of Decision No. 016/HAC/P/2025 relating to the coverage of the presidential election campaign by public service media.

• No public entity in Guinea is a shareholder of the Africa 24 Group

• The Africa 24 Group, through its activities, cannot meet the criteria of Decision No. 017/HAC/P/2025 relating to the coverage of the presidential election campaign by private media. • No legal criteria link Africa 24 to this status in Guinea.

The Africa 24 Group, confident in the material and operational certainty that it has not violated any laws in Guinea, will not exercise its right to challenge the decision before the Supreme Court, which has only 48 hours to render its judgement during the election period.

This opportunistic decision, which has no legal basis, masks internal issues in the local context, of which the Africa 24 Group is a collateral victim.

The Africa 24 Group, accessible to 120 million households in 90 countries, is a media outlet with 100% African capital, promoting the values of respect, dialogue and listening, which in its 18 years of existence has never had to violate any law of any regulatory authority in the world.

The Africa 24 Group, keen to promote this decisive phase of democracy in Africa and buoyed by the confidence of the citizens of Guinea, will never subscribe to or associate itself with any controversy or attack of any kind against the HAC, its members, the authorities or the people of Guinea.

WE ARE CAMPAIGNING FOR A UNITED AND SOLIDARITY-BASED CONTINENT

The Africa24 Group 360° coverage

Global broadcasting to 120 million households

Available live, replay and on demand on all your screens:

• AFRICA24 in French (channel 249) and AFRICA24 English (channel 254) from the Canal+ Afrique package

• On myafrica24, Africa’s first HD streaming platform.

• On https://Africa24TV.com/, which offers you full access to all programmes With the Africa24 Group, Together, let’s transform Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of AFRICA24 Group.

Contact: Communications Department – Africa24 Group
Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email: onana@africa24tv.com
Tel.: +237 691 30 03 40

Follow us: 
@ africa24tv
 https://Africa24TV.com/

ABOUT THE AFRICA24 GROUP:
Launched in 2009, the Africa 24 Group is the continent’s leading TV and digital media publisher with four full HD channels broadcast on the largest packages. A leader among the continent’s decision- makers and senior executives, Africa 24 in French and Africa 24 English, the Group is the pioneer and leader in African news channels. Africa 24 has strengthened this leadership through sport with Africa24

Sport, Africa’s leading channel dedicated to sports news and competitions, and Africa24 Infinity, the first channel dedicated to creative industries that showcase the creative genius of African youth in art, culture, music, fashion, design and more.

As the continent’s leading audiovisual brand, the AFRICA24 Group has four full HD television channels, each a leader in its segment:

• AFRICA24 TV: Leader in African news in French, published by AMedia
• AFRICA24 English: Leader in African news exclusively in English
• AFRICA24 Infinity: The channel for creative talent dedicated to music, art and culture.
• AFRICA24 Sport: The leading sports news and competition channel

The AFRICA24 Group publishes myafrica24 (Google store and App Store), the world’s first HD streaming platform on Africa available on all screens (television, tablet, smartphone, computers)… More than 120 million households have access to the Africa24 Group’s channels through the largest operators: Canal+, Bouygues, Orange, Bell. …and more than 8 million subscribers on various digital platforms and social networks.

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Groupe Africa24 : Suspension de la Diffusion en Guinée ; Fausses allégations et Actions abusives

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Ce dimanche 22 décembre 2025, le Groupe Africa 24 (https://Africa24TV.com/) a été destinataire par l’intermédiaire du groupe Canal+, notre partenaire de distribution, d’un courrier émanant du Président de la Haute Autorité de la Communication (HAC) portant la mention « Décision N°025/HAC/P/25 » ayant pour Objet « Suspension de la diffusion de la Chaîne de télévision AFRICA 24 pour exercice illégal en République de Guinée »

Il est reproché au Groupe Africa 24 de couvrir la campagne présidentielle en Guinée sans disposer d’une autorisation. Cette affirmation repose sur de fausses allégations sans la moindre démarche de vérifications préalable.

Cette décision est une action abusive.

En effet, faute de disposer de l’autorisation de la HAC, qui avait fixé au 18 décembre 2025, par communiqué de presse officiel, la période obligatoire d’accréditation des médias, le Groupe Africa 24 n’a déployé aucune ressource sur le territoire National de la Guinée pour couvrir la Campagne présidentielle 2025.

Depuis le 14 décembre 2025, aucun membre de l’agence ANA ou du Groupe Africa 24 ne séjourne en Guinée et n’a couvert le moindre meeting ou effectué le moindre reportage sur le territoire de la Guinée.

L’agence ANA a mené une seule activité en Guinée, hors période obligatoire d’accréditation des médias pour la campagne présidentielle. Soucieuse du respect des institutions de régulation, elle en a, préalablement et officiellement, informé la HAC par courrier en date du 4 décembre 2025, courrier dont la HAC a confirmé la réception.

Du 9 au 13 décembre 2025, ANA a donc conduit une série d’entretiens et de débats de son émission « Africa News Room » dans un studio privé avec Amadou OURY BAH, le Premier Ministre et Directeur de Campagne du Président de la République, le candidat Mamadi Doumbouya, de plusieurs candidats, personnalités politiques et gouvernementales.

Ces multiples émissions, reflet véritable de la pluralité des opinions politiques en Guinée ont fait et font toujours l’objet d’une diffusion intégrale et d’une exploitation éditoriale multiple des intervenants permettant de partager à travers une très forte audience, la vision du développement de la Guinée.

La décision de la HAC indique : « les rapports du service monitoring constatant la diffusion de reportages réalisés sur le territoire national sur la campagne électorale sans aucune autorisation préalable de la Haute Autorité de la Communication »

A ce sujet, les images et reportages sur la Guinée en diffusion sur Africa 24 dans le cadre de la Présidentielle sont issues quasi exclusivement des services vidéo de chaque candidat à la présidentielle transmis par voie numérique, des archives de productions du groupe et des images d’illustrations. Cette réalité est vérifiable par tous les moyens.

Le Groupe Africa 24, travaille avec une agence d’information vidéo Afrimedia News Agency (ANA) qui est une entité indépendante en charge de lui fournir du contenu d’actualité sur les pays africains.

En date du 18 décembre 2025, la Haute Autorité de l’Audiovisuelle a publié un communiqué officiel « Relatif à l’accréditation pour la couverture médiatique du scrutin de l’élection Présidentielle du 28 décembre 2025 » invitant « les associations de presse, les Directeurs des organes de presse, et les correspondants de la presse étrangère désireux de couvrir le scrutin devaient fournir la liste des journalistes et des techniciens désignés ». La date limite de mise en conformité fixée par la Haute autorité de la Communication était le 22 décembre 2025.

Soucieuse de respecter scrupuleusement les directives de la HAC, l’agence média ANA, a transmis en date du 19 décembre 2025, la demande d’accréditation, au bénéfice de Monsieur MAMADOU SYLLA, Prestataire journaliste indépendant qui dispose d’une carte professionnelle.

Africa 24 marque sa profonde surprise face à l’exposé des motifs de la décision qui indique « La demande d’accréditation de la chaîne Africa 24 en cours d’examen à la Haute Autorité de la Communication, retardée par défaut de pièces exigées par la loi »

Ni Mamadou Sylla, ni l’agence média ANA, ni Africa 24 n’ont à ce jour reçu la moindre notification de la Haute Autorité de la Communication demandant un complément d’information ou de pièces.

Le Groupe Africa 24, qui n’a jamais enfreint la moindre loi en Guinée, respecte pleinement les prérogatives de la Haute Autorité de la communication.

Au terme d’une analyse profonde de la décision de la Haute Autorité de la Communication de la Guinée, Africa 24 a pris le soin de soumettre la notification à la très haute appréciation des juristes chevronnés en Guinée et sur le continent.

Il en ressort :

  • Le Groupe Africa 24 ne peut être indexé d’un quelconque défaut d’exercice illégal en Guinée pour une raison avérée : Africa 24 n’a jamais disposé sur le sol Guinéen d’une infrastructure, d’entité juridique et d’un personnel.
  • Le Groupe Africa 24 par son activité ne peut répondre aux critères de la décision N°016/HAC/P/2025 relative à la couverture de la campagne pour l’élection présidentielle par les médias de service public.
  • Aucune entité publique de Guinée n’est actionnaire du Groupe Africa 24
  • Le Groupe Africa 24 par son activité ne peut répondre aux critères de la décision N°017/HAC/P/2025 relative à la couverture de la campagne pour l’élection présidentielle par les médias privés.

Aucun critère juridique ne rattache Africa 24 à ce statut en Guinée.

Le Groupe Africa 24, porté par la certitude matérielle et opérationnelle de n’avoir violé aucune loi en Guinée, n’exercera pas son droit à attaquer la décision devant la cour suprême qui ne dispose que de 48H pour rendre son jugement pendant la période électorale.

Cette décision opportuniste, sans fondement juridique masque dans un contexte local,  des enjeux internes dont le groupe Africa 24 est une victime collatérale.

Le Groupe Africa 24, accessible à 120 millions de foyers dans 90 pays, est un média à capitaux 100% africains, portant les valeurs de respect, de dialogue et d’écoute qui n’a jamais eu à transgresser en 18 ans d’existence, la moindre loi d’une autorité de régulation dans le monde.

Le Groupe Africa 24, soucieux de valoriser cette phase décisive de la démocratie en Afrique, conforté par la confiance des citoyens de Guinée, ne souscrira et ne s’associera jamais à la moindre polémique, ni attaque de quelque nature contre la HAC, ses membres, les autorités et le peuple de la Guinée.

NOUS MILITONS POUR UN CONTINENT UNI ET SOLIDAIRE

Le Groupe Africa24 Une couverture 360° une diffusion mondiale pour 120 millions de foyers

Disponible en direct, replay et à la demande sur tous vos écrans :

  • AFRICA24 en français (chaîne 249) et AFRICA24 English (chaîne 254) du bouquet Canal+ Afrique
  • Sur myafrica24 la première plateforme de streaming HD de l’Afrique.
  • Sur https://Africa24TV.com/ qui vous offre accès intégral à tous les programmes

Avec le Groupe Africa24, Ensemble, transformons l’Afrique.

Distribué par APO Group pour AFRICA24 Group.

Contact : Direction de la Communication – Groupe Africa24
Gaëlle Stella Oyono
Email : onana@africa24tv.com
Tél. : +237 691 30 03 40

Suivez-nous :
@ africa24tv
https://Africa24TV.com/ 

À PROPOS DU GROUPE AFRICA24 :
Initié en 2009, le Groupe Africa 24 est le premier éditeur TV & média digital du continent avec 4 chaînes full HD en diffusion dans les plus grands bouquets. Leader chez les décideurs et cadres dirigeants du continent, Africa 24 en Français et Africa 24 English, le Groupe est le pionnier et leader des chaînes d’informations sur l’Afrique. Africa 24 a renforcé ce leadership à travers le sport avec Africa24 Sport, première chaine en Afrique dédiée à l’information sportive et aux compétitions et Africa24 Infinity, première chaîne dédiée aux industries créatives qui valorisent le génie créatif de la jeunesse africaine dans l’art, la culture, la musique, la mode, le design…

Première marque audiovisuelle du continent, le Groupe AFRICA24 dispose de 4 chaînes de télévisions en full HD chacune leader dans son segment :

  • AFRICA24 TV : Leader de l’information Africaine en Français, édité par AMedia
  • AFRICA24 English : Leader de l’Information Africaine exclusivement en Anglais
  • AFRICA24 Infinity : La chaîne des talents créatifs dédiée à la Musique, l’art, la culture.
  • AFRICA24 Sport : Première chaîne d’information sportive et des compétitions

Le Groupe AFRICA24 édite myafrica24 (Google store et App Store), la première plateforme de streaming HD mondiale sur l’Afrique disponible sur tous les écrans (Télévision, tablette, smartphone, ordinateurs)…Plus de 120 millions de foyers ont accès aux chaînes du Groupe Africa24 à travers les plus grands opérateurs : Canal+, Bouygues, Orange, Bell…et plus de 8 millions d’abonnés sur les différentes plateformes digitales et réseaux sociaux.

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Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) launches new Interim Forest Stewardship Standard for Mozambique

Source: APO

FSC (www.FSC.org) is pleased to announce the publication of the new Interim Forest Stewardship Standard (IFSS) for Mozambique, marking a significant step toward sustainable forest management in the country. This standard applies to all forest management units, including Small or Low Intensity Managed Forests (SLIMFs), but excludes Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs). While domestic demand for certified products remains low, interest from environmentally conscious buyers and donors is growing. FSC certification through the new IFSS can open doors for communities and businesses to benefit from sustainable forest products and ecosystem services.

Importance of forests in Mozambique and steps toward sustainable management

Mozambique’s forests, covering nearly 40% of the country, are primarily Miombo woodlands and play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, supporting climate resilience and socio-economic development. The forestry sector supports millions of rural Mozambicans through timber, charcoal, employment, and other forest-based activities. However, unsustainable practices like illegal logging and slash-and-burn agriculture have led to the degradation of nearly 60% of forest resources, with an annual forest loss rate of 0.58%, costing the economy around $500 million annually.

Mozambique has been fully engaged in combating illegal logging and committing to climate and sustainable timber-related targets over the past years. The implementation of a comprehensive ban on raw log exports has restricted the export of 22 “first class species” in raw form, making concession holders legally required to process timber locally, ensuring more economic value remains within the country, promoting domestic timber processing, and creating jobs. Furthermore, as part of the Paris Agreement (http://apo-opa.co/4aYNQ5x) and with international support, Mozambique is aiming to meet its climate goals, as set out in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) (http://apo-opa.co/494KpYB) – a reduction of 76.5 million tonnes of carbon emissions by 2030. The country was the first to receive payments from the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility for REDD+ efforts. Sustainable timber production is now integrated into climate mitigation strategies, reinforcing forests’ role in reducing emissions and supporting biodiversity.

Regardless of these efforts, illegal logging remains a significant challenge. Between 2017 and 2020, 2.6 million tonnes of logs worth $900 million were illegally exported, violating Mozambique’s log export ban. The government has intensified enforcement efforts, including international cooperation with the US Forest Service, and improved monitoring systems. However, limited resources remain a barrier to effective enforcement. The new FSC standard, therefore, offers forest operators a credible system for demonstrating sustainability, improving transparency, and accessing higher-value markets.

Role of the new IFSS in climate and economic goals

Mozambique began engaging with FSC certification in 2005. Despite challenges such as low domestic demand and limited resources, FSC-certified wood products are gaining recognition in European markets. Organizations like WWF, FSC Denmark, and FSC South Africa have supported the development of FSC standards, leading to the creation of AGREF (Associação pela Gestão Responsável das Florestas).

The new IFSS was developed through a transparent and inclusive process. It included public consultations, field visits to provinces such as Sofala and Manica, community meetings, interviews, and input from over 160 stakeholders, including community leaders, government agencies, NGOs, and businesses. It supports Mozambique’s climate goals and efforts to adapt to climate change under its Climate Promise and NDCs, while also promoting green jobs, rural development, and sustainable timber use, aligning with broader initiatives such as AFR100 (http://apo-opa.co/495DJJw), the Maputo Declaration (http://apo-opa.co/3L73i53), and community-led forest management. These efforts aim to restore degraded landscapes, protect Miombo ecosystems, and empower local communities.

The official English version of the IFSS is available for download at the FSC Document Centre (http://apo-opa.co/491Hi3t). A Portuguese version will be available soon to help with its implementation.

If you have further questions about the IFSS and the standard approval process, please contact the FSC Country Requirements team at country_requirements@fsc.org.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

Media contacts:
Southern Africa
Benjamin Rafemoyo
Market Development Officer, Southern Africa
b.rafemoyo@fsc.org
Phone: +263 86 440 00618
Mobile: +263 77 521 4160

Africa:
Israel Bionyi
Senior Regional Communications Manager
FSC Africa
i.bionyi@fsc.org

FSC Africa
www.Africa.FSC.org
T: +49 (0) 228 367 66 0 
F: +49 (0) 228 367 66 65 

Media files

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When kids move overseas: why visits are so rare for South Africa’s emigrant families

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Sulette Ferreira, Transnational Family Specialist and Researcher, University of Johannesburg

More than one million South Africans, about 1.6% of the country’s population of 63 million, currently live overseas. Emigration is never a solitary event or a purely economic decision. When one person leaves, an entire network of relationships is reshaped. This means that parents, grandparents, siblings and friends are left behind, making it challenging to maintain close bonds across continents.

Despite vast geographical distances and the challenges of differing time zones, the enduring parent–child bond motivates families to seek meaningful ways to stay connected. Among the most powerful of these are transnational visits. For those who can travel, these visits serve as an emotional and relational lifeline: they allow parents to step into their adult children’s newly formed worlds, observe their daily routines, and build or maintain bonds with grandchildren born or raised abroad.

Although families stay connected through technology, parents emphasise that virtual contact cannot replace the desire for in-person connection. Yet this longing is often unmet. For many families, visiting is a deeply felt desire rather than a realistic possibility.

In a recent research paper I examined barriers to transnational visits from South African parents to their emigrant children. It intentionally centres on the experiences of parents travelling abroad, rather than on return visits to South Africa.

In total, 37 participants took part. They were South African citizens from a range of racial, cultural and religious backgrounds. They were between 50 and 85 years old. They were fluent in English and were parents of adult child(ren) who had emigrated and lived abroad for at least one year.

Most participants were women. Their children had emigrated to a range of countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the UK and the US. This aligns with global trends of South African emigration to English-speaking, economically developed countries.

The research uncovered the intertwined financial, emotional, physical, relational, and bureaucratic complexities that shape whether, how, and how often these visits take place.

Why visits matter

For transnational families, visits allow parents and children to revive and nurture attachments. They complement virtual interactions, video calls, instant messages and social media.

For parents, visiting their children’s homes bridges the gap between imagined spaces created through video calls and the lived realities of those environments. These experiences foster deeper emotional connections, enabling families to share closeness, engage in mutual care, and observe unspoken cues such as body language and tone, elements foundational to sustaining relationships.

Despite their importance, the rarity of transnational visits emerged clearly from participants’ narratives. While a small number of parents in the study were able to visit annually or every couple of years, this was the exception rather than the norm. For most, visits were rare events.

Although nearly all parents longed to visit more frequently, the majority had visited only once and several had never visited at all. Those who had visited spoke about long gaps between visits and the uncertainty of when or whether a next visit would ever be possible. This absence amplifies the loneliness experienced and leaves parents feeling increasingly “out of sync” with their children’s lives, at times even “irrelevant”.

Three main challenges

Parents consistently expressed a desire to visit more often. Yet this longing was constrained by the realities of their circumstances. Three major challenges emerged across the qualitative interviews.

Financial constraints: This was the most significant barrier, often preventing parents from realising their desire to visit their emigrant children. Air travel from South Africa to destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US is expensive. The South African rand’s weak exchange rate against strong currencies turns even modest flights into luxury purchases.

Retirees living on fixed incomes often find themselves caught between safeguarding their financial stability and meeting the deep emotional need to reconnect with their children and grandchildren.

It is terribly expensive. If I now had to, I would scratch the money out from somewhere and I can afford it, but I need to look after myself as well. Even if you have money, you don’t spend your money on something that is really absurd, like the price of air tickets at this stage is completely absurd.

Hidden expenses can also make visits even more challenging. Visa application fees, compulsory health insurance and medical examinations quickly add up.

Logistical strain: The geographical distance between South Africa and the popular emigration destinations such as Australia, the United States and New Zealand presents significant obstacles. For many elderly parents, long-haul travel is physically and mentally demanding.

As one participant shared:

The trip to America … there’s a lot of jet lag, and it’s not an easy trip to make. You know, if your kids are in Europe or England, there’s no time delay, no jet lag or anything like that.

Chronic illnesses, mobility limitations and fatigue make these journeys even more challenging. For some parents, the physical toll makes travel unmanageable or medically inadvisible.

Practical considerations, especially how long to stay, long enough to make the trip worthwhile but not too long to disrupt routines, add another layer of complexity. These decisions make planning a visit both logistically and emotionally taxing.

The emotional weight of saying goodbye: Every visit carries an inevitable ending. With no certainty about when, or if, the next visit will happen, each departure feels like a potential final farewell, especially for older parents. The joy of togetherness becomes tinged with the dread of parting, a heaviness that grows as the end of the visit approaches. For many, the farewell at the end of a visit is one of the most emotionally difficult moments.

As a grandmother describes:

And then a big factor is the sadness with the goodbye and for weeks after that you still struggle and can’t get back on track properly. For me, it gets more intense every time.

Some parents avoid visiting altogether because the emotional cost of departure outweighs the joy of being together.

Longing for presence

Many transnational parents must face the reality that limited financial, physical, or emotional resources will restrict the number of visits they can undertake in their lifetime. While digital communication helps families stay connected across borders, parents emphasised that virtual contact cannot recreate the intimacy that grows from in-person visits: the shared routines, playful moments and physical closeness.

Visits matter because they offer what digital technologies cannot fully provide: presence.

– When kids move overseas: why visits are so rare for South Africa’s emigrant families
– https://theconversation.com/when-kids-move-overseas-why-visits-are-so-rare-for-south-africas-emigrant-families-270509