Category: Africa

Source: APO

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The Select Committee on Public Infrastructure has urged government departments, including the Department of Higher Education and the Department of Social Development, to honour their bulk services payment commitments to the Salvokop Government Precinct to prevent jeopardising the progress and potential benefits of the project.

The call follows the committee’s second day of oversight visits in Gauteng, which included an inspection of the Salvokop precinct site.

Committee Chairperson Mr Rikus Badenhorst said the precinct tells a bigger story about what can be achieved when government invests with purpose, creating jobs, supporting SMMEs and transforming underused public land into a modern, functional space that works for people.

“It is in this context that the departments must honour the commitments they made for phase one of the project, which includes the installation of bulk and internal infrastructure services that are nearing completion,” said Mr Badenhorst.

The committee considers the non-payment by certain departments a direct risk to the potential benefits the project will yield, not only for the departments themselves, but also for the City of Tshwane and the broader economy.

The committee also expressed concern about residents who remain unwilling to be relocated to enable the completion of the initial phase of the project. While acknowledging that some concerns may be genuine, the committee emphasised the need for constructive engagement to reach workable solutions.

Although the matter is currently before the courts, the committee remains confident that a middle ground can be achieved through collaboration. It has called on relevant departments including Human Settlements and Water and Sanitation to assist in providing sustainable relocation solutions for affected residents.

Despite these challenges, the committee reaffirmed its support for the project, describing it as a ground-breaking initiative that links infrastructure investment to inner-city regeneration, integrated human settlements, and improved mobility.

“The model should be applauded and replicated across the country,” said Mr Badenhorst. “The precinct’s property management plan will ensure sustainability and the socio-economic spinoffs from job creation to spatial integration are too valuable to be lost.”

During the oversight visit, the committee also toured the Gibela Rail Consortium’s Dunnottar factory, commending the strides made in localising the production of passenger trains in South Africa.

Mr Badenhorst praised the factory’s achievement of sourcing 85% of its components locally, well above the target of 65% localisation, describing this as a major milestone for industrialisation, skills development and job creation. “Manufacturing remains a critical pillar in driving economic development. The Gibela project demonstrates how local production can stimulate economic spinoffs and build much-needed technical skills within our communities,” he said.

Efficient and reliable passenger rail transport, the committee noted, is crucial for economic productivity, job access and environmental sustainability. The committee committed to continue engaging with the Department of Transport and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) to ensure improved access to rail services across the country.

The select committee reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring the implementation of key infrastructure and transport projects, ensuring that they deliver tangible socio-economic benefits and contribute to the transformation and development of South Africa’s cities and communities.

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

Source: APO

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Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates Mr. Nasser Bourita called, Thursday in Brussels, on Belgian economic operators to seize the opportunities offered by the Southern provinces of the Kingdom, in line with His Majesty King Mohammed VI’s vision of making the Sahara region a hub for development and cooperation.

The call was made during the joint press conference in which Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Maxime Prévot, announced his country’s new advanced position on the Moroccan Sahara and that Belgium will henceforth act diplomatically and economically in line with this stance.

Mr. Bourita cited the example of several of Morocco’s partner countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the United States, which already view the Southern provinces as a genuine land of opportunities.

Washington has formally encouraged investment in the Moroccan Sahara region, and France recently organized the France-Morocco Economic Forum in Dakhla, he added.

The Minister noted in this regard that Belgium currently ranks 13th among Morocco’s trading partners and 17th among investors, an important position that can be strengthened by involving the private sector more, particularly during the upcoming visit to Morocco by a Belgian government delegation accompanied by economic operators and businessmen.

Through the Southern provinces of the Kingdom, “Belgium can develop its trade relations with West Africa and Central Africa,” insisted Mr. Bourita, emphasizing that the city of Dakhla can be a gateway to the African continent for Belgium.

In this context, the minister mentioned promising prospects for cooperation with Belgium in the renewable energy, infrastructure, industry, and green hydrogen sectors.

Belgium has expressed today its support for autonomy, placing the Sahara region within the framework of the Kingdom’s sovereignty and national unity, stressing that it will act as of now on diplomatic and economic plans in line with this position.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

Source: APO

A panel discussion in connection with United Nations Day 2025 was organized at the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers Hall in Asmara on 22 October under the theme “Self-Reliance: The Eritrean Experience and Its Global Relevance.”

The event was attended by representatives of ministries, national associations, heads and representatives of UN offices, as well as members of the diplomatic community.

The objective of the panel discussion was to enhance understanding of Eritrea’s philosophy of self-reliance in relation to nation-building and development; to strengthen linkages between Eritrea’s approach and the UN’s founding principles of sovereign equality, multilateralism, and partnership; and to identify lessons from Eritrea that may inform development pathways in other countries, highlighting the global relevance of self-reliance.

Ms. Nahla Valji, Coordinator of UN Offices in Eritrea, said that Eritrea’s approach to self-reliance offers a valuable lesson on how cooperation can be made more sustainable, equitable, and rooted in national ownership. From its inception, Eritrea has embraced a philosophy of self-reliance, not as isolation, but as empowerment.

Ms. Nahla further noted that Eritrea’s experience provides an important reference point, illustrating how self-reliance and partnership can coexist to deliver lasting results. “This is indeed a compelling model for renewed multilateralism and effective cooperation,” Ms. Nahla underlined.

At the panel discussion, which was moderated by Mr. Redae Tesfalul, Director of the Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, panelists included Mr. Hatem Elatawy, Ambassador of Egypt to Eritrea; Dr. Caroline Mwongera, Country Director of the International Fund for Agricultural Development; and Ms. Joanna Darmanin, Ambassador of the European Union. It was reported that the development programs in Eritrea guided by the principle of self-reliance are registering commendable progress.

The participants called for organizing similar programs, noting that such forums are important in reflecting the true image of Eritrea.

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

Source: APO

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Members of the four sub-branches of the National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) London branch conducted their congress on 19 October in London, with about 100 members in attendance.

Mr. Tewolde Yohannes, Head of Public and Community Affairs at the Eritrean Embassy in the UK and Ireland, said that the National Union of Eritrean Women has played a leading role in raising awareness among Eritrean women, ensuring equality and participation in practice, and contributing to the successful implementation of organizational and national development programs.

Noting that the current strategic objective is to enable Eritreans in the diaspora to preserve their identity and enhance their awareness; maintain their unity and strengthen their attachment to their homeland; contribute their part in nation-building and safeguarding national sovereignty; and become successful in education, skills, and socio-economic capacity, Mr. Tewolde called on the union branch to play its due part toward that end.

He also called for a thorough review of activities over the past two years and design of a roadmap for the coming two years.

Ms. Senait Haile, Head of the Union Branch in the United Kingdom, gave a briefing on the activities implemented so far and the future programs of the union branch.

Mr. Ahmed Mohammed, Chairman of the Eritrean Committee, and Mr. Hadgu Okbamicael, Chairman of the PFDJ London branch, delivered messages of solidarity.

Similarly, the German branch of the National Union of Eritrean Women held a meeting to review the implementation of activities during the past six months and to discuss programs for the next six months.

At the meeting, Ms. Leul Tewolde, Chairperson of the Union Branch, gave an extensive briefing on the objective situation in the homeland in terms of global diplomatic developments. She also urged members to conduct sustained promotional activities aimed at strengthening organizational capacity and expansion, as well as enhancing contributions to the implementation of the Afambo Boarding School Project.

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

Source: APO

Sudan stands at the epicentre of one of the world’s “most severe” humanitarian crises, according to the UN.

Over 30 million people now need urgent humanitarian assistance, among them 9.6 million displaced from their homes and nearly 15 million children caught in a struggle for daily survival.

“This is one of the worst protection crises we’ve seen in decades,” said Kelly Clements, Deputy High Commissioner at the UN refugee agency (UNHCR).

The agency, along with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and the World Food Programme (WFP) have issued a joint humanitarian call to action, appealing for immediate international attention to address “the immense suffering and growing dangers” confronting millions across Sudan.

Return to rubble

As fighting eases in the capital Khartoum and other parts of Sudan, nearly 2.6 million people are returning to damaged homes, many without access to water, healthcare, or education.

“I met people coming back to a city still scarred by conflict, where homes are damaged and basic services are barely functioning. Their determination to rebuild is remarkable, but life remains incredibly fragile”, said Ugochi Daniels, IOM’s Deputy Director General for Operations.

To make matters worse, the spread of diseases such as cholera, dengue, and malaria, combined with soaring malnutrition rates, is putting thousands at imminent risk of death without immediate assistance, according to IOM.

Over 260,000 civilians besieged

Meanwhile, over 260,000 civilians, including 130,000 children, remain trapped under siege in El Fasher, North Darfur, in what the UN agencies have called a “deeply concerning” situation.

For more than 16 months, families have been cut off from food, water, and healthcare. As health systems collapse, reports of killings, sexual violence, and forced recruitment into armed militias continue to rise.

“Entire communities are surviving in conditions that defy dignity”, warned Ted Chaiban, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director.

“Children are malnourished, exposed to violence, and at risk of dying from preventable diseases. Families are doing everything they can to survive, showing extraordinary resolve in the face of unimaginable hardship,” he added.

Challenges ahead

So far, the humanitarian response in Sudan has reached over 13.5 million this year.

Despite this, funding shortfalls are making it increasingly difficult for the UN and its partners to deliver the appropriate aid.

Totalling US$4.2 billion, the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan for Sudan remains critically underfunded at only 25 per cent.

IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, and WFP remain committed to working together to provide life-saving aid and protection to children and families across Sudan.

“The humanitarian community is ready to respond, but it cannot do it alone —urgent global support is needed to save lives and help communities rebuild”, underscored the humanitarian agencies.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN News.

Source: APO

In South Sudan, the cascading effects of climate change have become increasingly visible and devastating with torrential rainfall displacing communities all across the country. In regions like the Greater Pibor Administrative Area, one of the most affected, high-water levels have surged across six counties, threatening to tip the region into a full-scale humanitarian crisis. 

Considered by many in the community to be among the worst floods in recent memory, the disaster has affected over 43,000 people taking with it homes, livelihoods and critical infrastructure.

For communities of GPAA, the Pibor dyke remains a vital barrier against rising floodwaters.  Constructed by South Korean peacekeepers under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) this cordon serves as the only protection for the airport, parts of the market, and key administrative buildings.  With all roads linking to the capital Juba remaining impassable until February, the Pibor airport strip serves as the only lifeline for delivering essential supplies to the isolated region.

Sharing the tragedy he has been witnessing over the past weeks, Deputy Chief Administrator Ogebe Omot Ochan, also stresses the importance of this connection:

“The situation is worse.  Farmlands are destroyed, disease is spreading and currently, support from the international community is our only chance of survival.”

With water levels escalating, health concerns are, too. In the stagnant water, malaria and waterborne diseases are spreading fast. Over 5,000 cases have been reported in just two months.

And there is no end in sight. 

“We do not know if the water is increasing or decreasing so we need to be prepared for anything,” explains Pibor resident Marang Rafayal the great uncertainty that has taken over previously bustling areas. 

For many, the means to earning a living have been washed away. Nyalimakol Bicham is one such example—once the proud owner of a thriving tea stall serving daily cups of chai to customers outside a ministry building.

“I’ve had to start over here because the dyke keeps this area safe,” she said. “But my customers are gone, and the home I once knew is now underwater.” 

Affected communities remain resilient, but resilience alone cannot hold back the waters. With continued maintenance and construction, there is hope that the dyke will safeguard the airstrip and maintain access for both peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Source: APO – Report:

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I extend my heartfelt thanks to His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium for the gracious reception today in Brussels, and for the strong and distinguished bilateral relations that bind our two nations. I also express my sincere appreciation to Mr. António Costa, President of the European Council, and Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, for hosting the inaugural summit between Egypt and the European Union within the framework of our strategic partnership.

The discussions with the European Union were rich and constructive, reaffirming the depth of our relations, which have reached an unprecedented level of alignment. I look forward to the implementation of the agreements and outcomes we have achieved, and to the second summit, which Egypt will host in 2026.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Source: APO – Report:

RichAfrica Consultancy is proud to announce that the Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) will return to Windhoek for its 8th edition from 14–16 April 2026. Building on the success of its previous editions, this milestone event will shape Namibia’s next chapter in its energy journey as the country moves towards first oil production by 2029.

Endorsed and supported by the Government of Namibia and the African Energy Chamber, NIEC 2026 offers a platform for international companies and their Namibian counterparts to connect, sign deals and advance the country’s energy agenda. Backed by leading international and local institutions, the conference is proud to confirm Standard Bank Namibia and Rand Merchant Bank as Sapphire Sponsors, reflecting confidence in Namibia’s energy sector and the conference as a platform that contributes to growth, collaboration, and creation of in-country value.

This next edition comes at a time when the energy industry is rapidly growing, with companies such as Rhino Resources making new discoveries (Voltans-1X), Galp Energia seeking partners to develop its Mopane field and TotalEnergies preparing to reach a final investment decision for its Venus project in 2026. It also comes as Namibia drives a clean energy agenda, with green hydrogen, solar and power developments at the forefront. As the country strives to position itself as the next African energy hub, NIEC 2026 provides a platform for the industry to discuss investments, partnerships and the road ahead.

Since its inaugural edition in 2012, themed “The Road to Discovery & Beyond,” NIEC has grown into Namibia’s leading platform for high-level dialogue, strategic partnerships and industry collaboration. The conference continues to attract government leaders, global investors and the business community, providing a platform that contributes to Namibia’s energy growth and supports the achievement of first oil while building a diversified and resilient energy future.

In 2026, this trend will continue. NIEC2026 will bring together senior government leaders, investors, operators, service providers, financial institutions, academics, innovators, and civil society. Discussions will cover oil and gas, renewables, nuclear, and power generation. Strategic topics include recent developments; creation and sharing of in-country value; human capital development and skills transfer; active participation of local enterprises and service companies; infrastructure development and export readiness; and energy security, supply chain resilience and renewable integration. Beyond dialogue, the conference will explore inclusive programs such as the Future Energy Leaders Initiative and the Internship Program, equipping the next generation and insuring youth participation.

The curated program includes plenary sessions, panel discussions, technical masterclasses, B2B matchmaking, networking receptions and an interactive exhibition showcasing technologies, services and investment-ready projects. NIEC 2026 offers strategic opportunities for sponsorship, speaking engagements and exhibition participation, providing investors and key stakeholders with insights, connections and an opportunity to shape Namibia’s energy landscape.

“From our first theme, ‘The Road to Discovery & Beyond,’ to today’s ‘The Road to First Oil & Beyond’ NIEC has mirrored Namibia’s energy journey — from ambition to achievement. This edition is not just another conference, it is a defining moment where we celebrate progress, confront challenges, and unlock opportunities together. More than a gathering of leaders, NIEC is a catalyst for collaboration, investment, and innovation — strengthening the enabling environment and laying the foundations for an energy future that goes beyond first oil to deliver diversification, security, growth, and shared prosperity,” states Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, CEO and Founder, RichAfrica Consultancy.

Over 12 years, NIEC has established a legacy of industry leadership. Over 12 editions, the conference has evolved to become one of the most strategic platforms for the country’s energy sector. The event welcomes 2,537 delegates from 46 countries, features 410 speakers and has over 1,500 companies represented. Additionally, the event features over 90% homegrown vendor participation. Beyond energy, the conference promotes tourism and supports the hospitality sector, enhancing Namibia’s visibility as a premier business and leisure destination.

For more information, participation, or customized opportunities, contact info@ RichAfricaCo.com or visit www.NIEConference.com.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.