Category: Africa

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Uganda Deploys 348 New Community Health Extension Workers to Strengthen Integrated Services Delivery

Source: APO – Report:

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Uganda’s ambition to transform Primary Health Care through resilient community health systems entered a decisive phase on 4 March 2026, when a cohort of 348 newly trained Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) was passed out in a high-profile ceremony held in Mbarara City and Rukungiri District. 

The passing out event marked not only the deployment of a new cohort of frontline health workers but also a tangible milestone in the country’s long journey to fortify Primary Health Care (PHC) and accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). 

The latest deployment brings the national total of trained CHEWs to 5,616, with the Ministry of Health targeting 21,432 CHEWs by 2029 to ensure full parish-level coverage. Mbarara City and District produced 138 graduates, while Rukungiri District added 210. Each CHEW completed six months of competency-based training at a cost of approximately USD 2,100-2,200 per trainee. 

CHEWs are now deployed in 40 districts, with expansion planned to 30 more by August 2026. WHO has pledged sustained technical support, from programme design and evaluation to role clarity, emergency preparedness, and supervision frameworks, to ensure Uganda’s community health workforce thrives.

The ceremony was officiated by the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, and attended by a high-level delegation including the WHO Representative, Dr Kasonde Mwinga; diplomats; national and local leaders; and members of the public. Their presence underscored the growing political commitment and international support for Uganda’s CHEW programme, an initiative years in the making and designed to address longstanding gaps within the existing community health system, which had previously been served only by Village Health Teams (VHTs) introduced in 2001.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Aceng hailed CHEWs as the “foundation of a resilient PHC system in communities, where most health challenges originate and can be resolved”, urging them to champion sanitation, hygiene, preventive health behaviours, and timely linkage and referral of community members to care; among other integrated services being offered by the CHEWs.

The newly deployed CHEWs join a programme already showing early success. Since the 2022 pilot in Mayuge, Lira, and Lira City, the CHEW model has contributed to improved immunisation coverage, antenatal care attendance, facility-based deliveries, and early detection of malnutrition compared to districts where the scale-up has not reached.  These gains reflect the programme’s implementation science approach, in which district teams, researchers, and stakeholders continually refine strategies based on real-time data.

In her remarks, Dr Mwinga reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to strengthening Uganda’s Primary Health Care architecture. She underscored the role of CHEWs in expanding promotive, preventive, and basic curative services to underserved populations, thereby reducing inequities and improving health outcomes. She further emphasised that the CHEW model aligns with WHO’s global health workforce strategies, noting that Uganda’s persistent distribution gaps make community-level cadres essential to resilient health systems.

However, the CHEWs’ full integration into district and national structures remains a work in progress. The WHO called for stronger coordination platforms, better monitoring tools, and sustainable government-led financing models across all districts.

As the 348 graduates take their posts, they bring renewed hope that Uganda’s long-term vision for a strong, people-centred PHC system is becoming a reality.

– on behalf of World Health Organization – Uganda.

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Dr. Rasha Kelej Continues to Advance Cancer Care in Africa by Providing 269 Oncology Scholarships for 34 African Countries and Beyond

Source: APO – Report:

  • Merck Foundation together with African First Ladies and Ministries of Health continues to build cancer care capacity by providing around 269 Scholarships of One-year Clinical Training in many oncology sub- specialties, and One year and Two year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management.
  • Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
  • Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO together with African First Ladies recently released “Ray of Hope” children’s storybook and Animation Film for Cancer Awareness in three languages. Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4sMUSjt

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com) with Africa’s First Ladies and Ministries of Health is continuing to build and advance cancer care capacity through their Cancer Access Program, with the aim to increase the limited number of Oncologists in Africa.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) explained, “At Merck Foundation, we are transforming cancer care in Africa by addressing one of its most critical gaps: late diagnosis and the shortage of trained specialists.

Together with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, we have strengthened cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 269 Oncology Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 African and Asian countries, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and developing the multidisciplinary cancer care teams. In several of these countries, there wasn’t even a single oncologist. We are very proud that we are making history by training the first oncologists and first multidisciplinary cancer care teams in many countries like The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Niger, and many more.”

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialities.

“Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of patient care in general, and cancer care in particular, leading Africa toward a healthier future,” Dr. Rasha Kelej further explained.

As part of their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation has to date provided 269 Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 countries as per the following:

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of One year clinical training in most of oncology sub- specialties such as; Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Genital Urinary oncology, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Moreover, Merck Foundation provides One-year and Two-year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

The 34 countries include Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

According to WHO data (2022), Africa sees roughly 1.1 million new cancer cases and up to about 700,000 cancer deaths each year. Cancer mortality rates in Africa are much higher than in many other regions of the world, reflecting late diagnosis, limited access to care, and gaps in health systems. Therefore, Merck Foundation’s oncology scholarships play a critically important role in strengthening cancer care capacity across the continent.

Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “Nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early, and up to one-third can be prevented by reducing key risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, and lifestyle-related causes. To raise awareness about it, we have recently launched a children storybook and its adaptive animation film “Ray of Hope”, in partnership with African First Ladies. The story deals with childhood cancer and highlights the critical importance of early detection and access to well-trained cancer care teams capable of recognizing early warning signs.”

Read ‘Ray of Hope’ storybook here:

https://apo-opa.co/3P7SV2R#

Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here:

https://apo-opa.co/4sMUSjt

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.

Dr Judith Mkwaila, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “It was a great honor and privilege to be awarded the Merck Foundation Scholarship to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, India. The fellowship gave me both, theoretical and hands-on training in complex oncological procedures for head and neck cancers, breast, upper gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers. I was exposed to a multidisciplinary team approach in cancer care hence deepening my knowledge and skills in multimodality approach to cancer treatment for both curative and palliative purposes. Due to the knowledge and skills acquired through the training, I was able to start a General Surgical Clinic and become the First and Only Female Chief Surgeon at the Mzuzu Central Hospital. I am very thankful to Merck Foundation for the opportunity given to me to pursue this fellowship program and for continuing this noble cause of increasing access to high quality cancer care.”

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

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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 (https://apo-opa.co/4bBoJVb), X (https://apo-opa.co/3N9Ttof), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3NxQXbj), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/41aXMTl), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4rGzqfk) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4shAvuW).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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South Africa: Communications and Digital Technologies Committee to Host Roundtable on Podcasting

Source: APO – Report:

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The Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies will host a roundtable with podcasters and key stakeholders on 24 March 2026 under the theme: “A Multi Stakeholder Dialogue on Podcasting: Legislators, Policymakers, Regulators, Podcasters, and Industry Stakeholders Charting Balanced Regulation for Sustainable Growth, and Strong Accountability”.

The roundtable comes amid the rapid growth of podcasting in South Africa, driven by increased smartphone usage, wider internet access and a dynamic creator economy. As podcasts continue to reach wider audiences across news, culture and community-focused programming, questions have emerged about how existing regulatory frameworks apply to on-demand audio content distributed over the open internet.

The committee Chairperson, Ms Khusela Sangoni-Diko, said that the engagement is intended to provide a constructive platform for dialogue between Parliament, regulators, creators, platforms and civil society.

“Podcasting represents one of the most exciting developments in South Africa’s digital content ecosystem. It has opened space for diverse voices, languages and perspectives, while creating new opportunities for innovation and economic participation,” said Ms Diko.

She further said that the roundtable would help clarify how public-interest protections can be balanced with the need to nurture a growing creative sector.

Participants will include representatives from the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, regulators, independent podcasters, digital platforms, legal experts, civil society organisations and academic institutions. Discussions will focus on how podcasts fit within the existing legal framework, possible co-regulatory models, mechanisms for handling complaints and measures to expand opportunities for local creators.

Ms Diko said that the committee hopes the engagement will produce clear and actionable outcomes to guide future policy considerations. “Our intention is not to stifle creativity, but to ensure that as the sector grows, it does so within a framework that supports innovation, protects the public interest and expands participation in South Africa’s digital economy,” she said.

The roundtable is expected to produce a report outlining consensus points, areas for further work and recommended next steps for policymakers, regulators and industry stakeholders.

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Afreximbank annonce l’ouverture des inscriptions au Certificat de financement du commerce en Afrique pour l’année 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

L’Académie d’Afreximbank (AFRACAD) (https://apo-opa.co/4bgB4zc) a annoncé l’ouverture des inscriptions pour son Certificat de financement du commerce en Afrique (COTFIA) 2026, l’un de ses programmes phares conçu pour renforcer les capacités de l’Afrique en matière de financement du commerce. Le programme (COTFIA) vise à développer les compétences liées au commerce et à combler les lacunes critiques en matière de capacités, permettant ainsi au continent d’être plus compétitif sur le marché mondial.

Selon AFRACAD, les inscriptions au programme, ouvertes aux professionnels du secteur bancaire et à d’autres praticiens intéressés par le domaine du financement du commerce, prendront fin le 31 mai 2026.

Développé par AFRACAD, en partenariat avec Factors Chain International, l’Université américaine du Caire (AUC) et Quarter Bank, le programme est conçu pour améliorer la compréhension des participants de tous les aspects du financement du commerce international et est continuellement mis à jour pour se conformer aux meilleures pratiques. Le programme aborde également divers aspects de la mise en œuvre de la Zone de libre-échange continentale africaine (ZLECAf) qui devrait avoir un impact significatif sur l’amélioration du commerce intra-africain.

À l’instar du programme 2025, le programme COTFIA 2026 se déroulera selon un format mixte, avec cinq modules dispensés en ligne lors de sessions virtuelles animées par un formateur, un module en présentiel sur le campus de l’AUC à New Cairo, en Égypte, et le module final en ligne de manière asynchrone.

Commentant le programme, M. Stephen Kauma, Directeur Général des Ressources Humaines (Afreximbank), a souligné son importance stratégique pour former une nouvelle génération de professionnels hautement qualifiés dans le domaine du financement du commerce, capables de faire progresser les priorités commerciales de l’Afrique et sa diaspora ainsi que renforcer la capacité du continent à être compétitif sur le marché mondial.

 M. Kauma a encouragé les professionnels du secteur bancaire Africain et les autres professionnels dans le domaine du financement commercial à tirer pleinement parti de ce programme. Il a annoncé qu’AFRACAD offrirait des bourses couvrant 50 % des frais de scolarité aux sept premiers candidats cette année, renforçant ainsi l’engagement de la Banque à élargir l’accès au renforcement des capacités de haute qualité en matière de financement commercial à travers l’Afrique.

AFRACAD a été récompensée pour le programme COTFIA en octobre 2025, remportant le prix d’argent dans la catégorie de « Développement Professionnel » lors de la cérémonie officielle de remise des prix connue sous le nom de « Excellence in Practice Awards 2025 » discernés par la Fondation Européenne pour le Développement du Management ‘EFMD’ en sigle à Stockholm, en Suède. Ces prix reconnaissent officiellement les partenariats d’apprentissage et programmes de développement de haute qualité dans les domaines du développement des cadres, des professionnels, des talents et des organisations.

Le programme COTFIA a été lancé en 2016, initialement sous le nom de « Certificate of Finance in International Trade » (COFIT), mais a été restructuré en 2021 grâce à un partenariat entre AFRACAD et l’Université Américain du Caire – École de Commerce Onsi Sawiris afin de renforcer sa rigueur académique et sa pertinence régionale.

À ce jour, le programme a formé plus de 150 professionnels issus de tout le continent, en les dotant des compétences techniques, réglementaires et pratiques nécessaires pour renforcer l’écosystème du financement du commerce en Afrique et ouvrir de nouvelles opportunités pour le commerce intra-africain et mondial.

Les professionnels intéressés par le programme COTFIA 2026 peuvent s’inscrire à travers ce lien : https://apo-opa.co/471Rqt6

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

Contact Presse :
Vincent Musumba
Responsable des communications et de la gestion événementielle (Relations presse)
Courriel : press@afreximbank.com

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, avec une perspective stable, Baa2 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) et A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR). Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

Pour de plus amples informations, veuillez visiter : https://www.Afreximbank.com/

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Government dissolves Ingonyama Trust Board amid governance concerns

Source: Government of South Africa

Government dissolves Ingonyama Trust Board amid governance concerns

Land Reform and Rural Development Minister Mzwanele Nyhontso has dissolved the Ingonyama Trust Board following a series of resignations of several board members before the expiry of their terms of office.

The move comes after the Minister consulted with the Ingonyama and the KwaZulu-Natal Premier due to concerns about the resignations of several board members.

This reduced composition has raised serious questions about governance and operational stability.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Minister said due to the resignations, the board now has only four serving members alongside the Ingonyama, King Misuzulu Zulu, who serves as Chairperson in terms of the KwaZulu-Natal Ingonyama Trust Act.

“The administrative regulations issued under the KwaZulu-Natal Ingonyama Trust Act provide that five members of the accounting authority constitute a quorum for a meeting of the board.

“The regulations further provide that where a quorum is not present at the first meeting, a further meeting may be convened, and the members present at that later meeting may form a quorum for that meeting,” Nyhontso said.

Nyhontso has, however, concluded that the present circumstances have created a governance position that is no longer sustainable for the effective administration of the trust.

The Minister has taken this view, having regard for the current composition of the board, the practical difficulty of ensuring stable and effective governance under the present arrangements, and the need to secure continuity in the lawful administration of the trust and the management of trust land for the benefit of the communities for whom such land is held in trust.

In terms of this arrangement, the Minister said an administrator will be designated in terms of section 49(3) of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

“The administrator will oversee the day-to-day operations of the trust, ensuring administrative stability and continuity during the transition period,” the Minister explained.

The department confirmed that the process to reconstitute the Board will proceed in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the applicable consultation requirements.

Additionally, the Minister is satisfied that this course of action is necessary to protect the continuity of the lawful administration of the trust and to safeguard the interests of the communities for whose benefit the trust land is held.

Further details regarding the implementation of the transitional administrative arrangement and the process to reconstitute the board will be communicated in due course. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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Ethiopia’s national dialogue was meant to heal the nation, but divisions are deepening

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Dereje Melese Liyew, Lecturer, Political Science, Debre Markos University,

Ethiopia launched a national dialogue process in 2022 to address deep political divisions and help steer the country towards stability.

In theory, such dialogues can help societies move beyond war, rebuild trust and agree on new political rules. This has happened in countries such as Kenya, Tunisia and Yemen.

Ethiopia’s process involved setting up a national dialogue commission. It stated it wanted to build national consensus, strengthen nation building and support democratic transition.

The working mandate of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has been extended twice. First for six months in February 2025 and then for eight months in February 2026.

However, the dialogue is not on the right track. I have researched Ethiopia’s political landscape and peace efforts for nearly a decade, and in a recent paper, I examined why the dialogue process is facing a crisis.

I found that Ethiopia’s national dialogue is struggling due to legitimacy deficits, limited inclusion and weak process design. Four years after the process launched, it has produced limited tangible outcomes.

Mesfin Areaya, chief commissioner, Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission. ENA

National dialogues are most effective when they are broadly inclusive, trusted by key actors and conducted in a relatively stable political environment.

Ethiopia’s current context raises doubts on all three fronts.

The process has excluded influential political and armed actors. Opposition groups and civil society actors have also raised concerns about the commission’s independence from the ruling party. Ongoing conflicts further undermine the conditions needed for sustained negotiation.

These issues risk undermining the dialogue before it delivers meaningful results. This matters because national dialogue was meant to resolve Ethiopia’s political disputes peacefully. If it fails, the country risks missing a chance to manage conflict without violence.

Inclusivity

Inclusiveness is a defining feature of successful national dialogues. Key political forces, including armed groups, must see the process as a legitimate forum for negotiation.

In Ethiopia, several influential actors are absent.

Armed groups such as the Oromo Liberation Army, the Tigray People’s Liberation Front and the Amhara Fano have not been part of the process. Yet these groups are central to ongoing conflicts in Oromia, Tigray and Amhara regions. Holding a national dialogue while major armed confrontations continue – and without the participation of those directly involved – raises practical and political concerns.

Some opposition parties and civil society groups have also complained of inadequate consultation during the preparatory phase.

Exclusion weakens ownership. Without ownership, implementation becomes unlikely.

Trust

A national dialogue is usually convened during political crises or transitions. Its purpose is to bring together political forces, civil societies and non-state armed groups to negotiate fundamental questions about the state.

Ethiopia’s political tensions are rooted in unresolved questions about state structure, identity, historical narratives, the constitution and the balance between unity and self-determination.

A genuine dialogue could provide a platform to address these foundational disputes. However, the way the process has been designed and implemented has generated resistance.

One of the most contested issues has been the selection of commissioners.

The 11 members of the commission were appointed by parliament. Critics argue that the ruling party, which holds a majority of seats, dominated the process. Several opposition parties questioned the way the commission was set up.

When major political actors doubt the neutrality of conveners, the credibility of the entire process suffers. In divided societies, even the perception of bias can discourage participation.

In Ethiopia’s case, some opposition leaders have described the dialogue as a government-driven project rather than a nationally owned process. That perception alone is a serious obstacle.

There is also deep societal mistrust. Public confidence in political institutions – including parliament, courts and security institutions – has declined in recent years.

Dialogue requires a minimum level of trust before it can change anything.

Instability

National dialogues can occur during fragile transitions. But they rarely succeed in the middle of active and expanding armed conflicts.

Ethiopia continues to experience violence in multiple regions. In Tigray and parts of Amhara and Oromia, insecurity limits even basic state functions. Under such conditions, it’s difficult to set an agenda and get broad participation.

Ethiopia’s position in the Horn of Africa adds another layer of complexity.

Tensions linked to its Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and shifting alliances involving Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea and Somalia have heightened regional rivalries. Gulf States have also expanded their influence in the region.

Read more: Egypt-Ethiopia hostilities are playing out in the Horn – the risk of new proxy wars is high

National dialogues are domestically driven. However, external geopolitical competition can shape internal dynamics through diplomatic pressure, economic leverage or security alignments. A fragile domestic process becomes even more vulnerable in such an environment.

Experiences with national dialogues from Sudan, South Sudan and Kenya offer mixed lessons for Ethiopia.

In Sudan, dialogue initiatives lacked genuine political openness and failed to create an environment for talks. In South Sudan, there were questions about government interference, and key opposition actors weren’t included. Kenya’s 2008 dialogue, by contrast, succeeded in halting violence and led to constitutional reform. This was largely because it included major political rivals and was supported by mediation that was accepted.

The core lesson is consistent: inclusion, neutrality and timing matter.

Is a reset necessary?

Some Ethiopian scholars and political actors argue for pausing and rethinking the dialogue.

In my view, a reset should involve:

  • re-examining how commissioners are selected to ensure the process is seen as fair

  • expanding engagement with opposition parties and civil society

  • exploring ways to include or at least negotiate with influential armed groups

  • taking parallel steps to reduce violence and build confidence.

A national dialogue is not a magic solution. It cannot, on its own, resolve deep ideological disagreements. But it can help manage them if the process is widely seen as legitimate.

If Ethiopia’s dialogue continues without addressing concerns over trust, inclusion and ongoing conflict, it risks becoming another missed opportunity in the country’s long political transition.

The stakes are high. A credible process could help stabilise the political landscape. A flawed one may deepen scepticism and polarisation.

– Ethiopia’s national dialogue was meant to heal the nation, but divisions are deepening
– https://theconversation.com/ethiopias-national-dialogue-was-meant-to-heal-the-nation-but-divisions-are-deepening-278321

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Constitution brought “profound transformation” to South Africa

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitution brought “profound transformation” to South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Andries Nel, has described the Constitution as a path altering legal document that has “profoundly transformed” South Africa.

The Deputy Minister addressed the National Council of Province’s debate on Human Rights Day on Wednesday afternoon.

This year, South Africa commemorates the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution as the country’s superior legal authority.

“The Constitution is the supreme law of the land, the basis for the transformation of our society into a united, non-racial, non-sexist democratic state founded on the values of human dignity, the achievement of equality and the advancements of human rights and freedoms.

“The Constitution has, over the past three decades, profoundly transformed South Africa’s political and legal landscape into a constitutional democracy. [It’s] progressive because it not only recognises the injustices and the inequalities of the past, but it places an obligation on government and citizens, women and men, young and old to work to heal the divisions of the past and establish a society based on democratic values, social justice and fundamental human rights,” he said.

The Deputy Minister described the Constitution as “both revolutionary and transformative”.

“It advances the objective of building a South African nation united in its diversity, of building a democratic and developmental state which meets the needs of the people, of building a transformed, inclusive and thriving economy that works for all South Africans and of building a united, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous society based on the best of human values,” Nel said.

Furthermore, he called on members of the House to consider reciting the Preamble of the Constitution every time they gather.

“We appeal to you, the Chairperson and the members here present, to consider making the reciting to the Preamble of the Constitution a standard practice when we meet as the freely elected representatives of the people of South Africa to discharge our duties and responsibilities in terms of the Constitution which we have all sworn an oath to uphold.

“It is a powerful reminder of where we come from, who we are and the values that inform what we seek to become as a nation,” the Deputy Minister explained.

This year also ushers in the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the 1976 student uprisings and the 70th anniversary of the 1956 women’s march where more than 20 000 women marched against the apartheid state’s laws.

“As we celebrate the rights that have been enshrined in our Constitution, we also recall the events at Sharpeville on that day in 1960 when the apartheid police opened fire on unarmed protestors, killing 69 people and injuring many more.

“Human Rights Day reminds us of the sacrifices of our past, the struggles of our present and the hopes of our future,” Nel said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB

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SA Innovation Week highlights gains of investing in research and development

Source: Government of South Africa

SA Innovation Week highlights gains of investing in research and development

Science, Technology and Innovation Deputy Minister Dr Nomalungelo Gina says innovation is the lifeblood of any forward-looking country and industrialisation. 

“…All fast-growing economies are driven by strong investments in research and development (R&D) and a robust system for commercialising prototypes,” Gina said at the opening of the South African Innovation Week (SAIW) 2026 held at Nasrec, Johannesburg.

Further, the Deputy Minister said all countries that innovate, rather than import technology solutions, are “the strongest”.

“The department’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Decadal Plan (2022-2032), a government strategic roadmap to place innovation at the heart of the country’s socio-economic development, sets an ambitious target to increase funding for research and innovation to a Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) of 1.5% of the GDP, an improvement from the current 1%,” Gina said. 

Gina said R&D has been under-funded and industries have not been investing enough in R&D to develop new technologies.

“Another hurdle we face is that agencies like the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research and universities host many technology demonstrators as prototypes that have not been translated into the economy. 

“In other words, the private sector is not taking up these technologies, which are ready for diffusion into the economy. It is these innovation gaps that we seek to address through industry partnership engagements as the DSTI. The Decadal Plan further defines key priority areas as grand challenges to be addressed through our efforts,” she said.

Gina said another challenge the country faces is that the future economy, driven mainly by new technologies, including AI, is confronted with a skills deficit.

“We have a skills mismatch as a country. More graduates are unemployed because they have skills that this gig economy doesn’t really need, yet we need to develop these skills and capabilities very quickly to be critical players in this emerging economy. 

“At the heart of our efforts is building the new pipeline of STEM-related professionals, who will be key players in the new economy, including future innovators.”

Gina told delegates that innovation is an engine of industrialisation and development, and that government is making a call for a coordinated approach, instead of different players functioning in silos.

“Part of this coordination is pooling funding instruments to support research, development, and commercialisation, including the registration of Intellectual Property (IP). Ecosystem-wide coordination is fundamental to the system’s success. 

“Our adopted mantra is ‘Placing Science, Technology and Innovation at the Centre of Government, Education, Industry and Science’.” 

The SAIW26 brings together the energy, talent and capital of the innovation ecosystem into one shared showcase, networking and dialogue platform. It is designed as a week-long national programme to feature provincial innovation engagements across South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Government welcomes easing of CPI

Source: Government of South Africa

Government welcomes easing of CPI

Government has welcomed a further easing of the annual consumer price inflation (CPI) to 3.0% in February 2026, down from 3.5% in January 2026, indicating sustained progress in stabilising prices. 

The monthly change in the CPI was 0.4%, reflecting contained price pressures across the economy.

The lower inflation outcome was supported by several key factors, including a notable decline in fuel prices, which recorded a month-on-month decrease of 3.1% and contributed to a significant annual drop of 10.1% in the fuel index.

“Encouragingly, food inflation slowed for the first time in four months, easing to 3.7% from 4.4% in January. Consumers benefited from lower prices across a range of essential food items, including cereals, meat products, and cooking oils, providing some relief to household budgets.

“Government notes that while certain categories, such as alcoholic beverages, recorded moderate increases, the overall inflation outlook remains contained and within a manageable range,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Wednesday.

Government will continue to monitor price developments closely and remains committed to implementing measures that support economic stability, protect consumers, and promote inclusive growth. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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O Afreximbank anuncia a abertura de inscrições para o certificado de financiamento comercial em África de 2026

Source: Africa Press Organisation – Portuguese –

A Academia do Afreximbank [Afreximbank Academy (AFRACAD) (https://apo-opa.co/4bgB4zc) anunciou a abertura das inscrições para o seu Certificado de Financiamento Comercial em África (COTFIA) de 2026, um dos seus programas emblemáticos concebido para reforçar a capacidade de financiamento comercial de África, melhorando as competências relacionadas com o comércio e resolvendo à lacunas críticas em termos de capacidade, permitindo assim que o continente concorra de forma mais eficaz nos mercados globais.

De acordo com a AFRACAD, as inscrições para o programa, que está aberto a profissionais do sector bancário e outros especialistas interessados na área do financiamento do comércio, encerram a 31 de Maio de 2026.

Desenvolvido pela AFRACAD, em parceria com a Factors Chain International, a American University in Cairo (AUC) e o Quarter Bank, o programa foi concebido para aprofundar a compreensão dos participantes sobre todos os aspectos do financiamento do comércio internacional e é constantemente actualizado para se adequar às melhores práticas. Aborda igualmente vários aspectos da implementação da Zona de Comércio Livre Continental Africana (ZCLCA) que se prevê ter um impacto significativo na melhoria do comércio intra-africano.

À semelhança do grupo de 2025, o programa COTFIA de 2026 será ministrado num formato misto, com cinco módulos ministrados em linha em sessões virtuais orientadas por formadores, um módulo em sessões presenciais no campus da AUC em New Cairo, no Egipto, e o módulo final em linha de forma assíncrona.

Ao comentar sobre o programa, o Sr. Stephen Kauma, Director-Geral de Recursos Humanos do Afreximbank, “sublinhou a sua importância estratégica na formação de uma nova geração de profissionais altamente qualificados em financiamento comercial, capazes de impulsionar a agenda comercial de África e reforçar a capacidade do continente de competir de forma eficaz no mercado global.”

O Sr. Kauma instou os profissionais africanos do sector bancário e outros profissionais da área do financiamento comercial a tirarem partido do programa, anunciando que a AFRACAD vai oferecer bolsas de estudo que cobrem 50% das propinas aos primeiros sete candidatos deste ano, reforçando ainda mais o compromisso do Banco em expandir o acesso à capacitação de alta qualidade em financiamento comercial em toda a África Global.

A AFRACAD foi reconhecida pelo programa COTFIA em Outubro de 2025, tendo ganho o Prémio de Prata na categoria de Desenvolvimento Profissional nos Prémios de Excelência na Prática de 2025 da Fundação Europeia para o Desenvolvimento da Gestão (EFMD), entregues durante uma cerimónia em Estocolmo, Suécia. Estes prémios celebram parcerias de aprendizagem e desenvolvimento de grande impacto e alta qualidade nas áreas de desenvolvimento executivo, profissional, de talentos e organizacional.

O programa COTFIA foi lançado em 2016, inicialmente como Certificado de Finanças no Comércio Internacional (COFIT), mas foi reestruturado em 2021, com a AFRACAD a estabelecer uma parceria com a Onsi Sawiris School of Business da AUC para reforçar o seu rigor académico e relevância regional.

O programa já formou, até ao momento, mais de 150 profissionais de todo o continente, dotando-os das competências técnicas, regulamentares e práticas necessárias para reforçar o panorama de financiamento do comércio africano e abrir novas oportunidades para o comércio intra-africano e global.

Os profissionais interessados no programa COTFIA 2026 podem inscrever-se através da seguinte hiperligação: https://apo-opa.co/471Rqt6

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para Afreximbank.

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

Siga-nos no: 
 X: https://apo-opa.co/4br0UPS
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3Pi3yzY
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/3NmYmdF
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/479v4G5

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

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

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