Category: Africa

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Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation Board Inaugurated

Source: APO


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Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko has inaugurated the Board of the Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation (GDPC)

During the inauguration he stated that one of the critical roles of the GDPC was to safeguard the deposits of ordinary Ghanaians and strengthen public confidence in the financial system.

The Board is chaired by Governor of the C Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiamah, Other members include Galahad Alex Andoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation; Mr. Prosper Ayinbilla Awuni, representing the Ministry of Finance; Benjamin Amenumey; and Paul Kwasi Agyemang.

The Board Chairman expressed gratitude to His Excellency the President and the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, for the confidence reposed in the team.

He again gave assurance of the Board’s commitment to providing effective leadership and strengthening the deposit protection scheme.

Dr. Asiamah further noted that the Board will ensure transparency, good governance, and the use of innovative tools to improve the Corporation’s operations.

Additionally, he stated the the Board’s plans to explore the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, among other strategies, to enhance how the Corporation serves the people.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Finance – Republic of Ghana.

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New Forest Standard for Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to leverage responsible forest management

Source: APO

The DRC could soon unlock access to global markets for certified forest products and increase the value of verified ecosystem services impact, especially carbon, water, biodiversity, recreation, and culture, with the new FSC Forest Stewardship Standard (FSS) (www.Africa.FSC.org) for the DRC.  The standard promotes responsible forest management through FSC certification. It would not only strengthen the conservation of DRC’s rich biodiversity but also contribute to reducing the increasing illegal logging driving deforestation in the Democratic Republic of Congo and help the country meet its climate target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 21% by 2030. By conforming to the standard’s requirements, forest managers can increase the benefits they generate from the forest resources they manage. FSC certification is a core stepping stone to align with the European Union (EU) Regulation on Deforestation-free Products (EUDR), a legislation requiring companies to ensure their products are not linked to deforestation. Once stakeholders utilize the FSC certification system in the DRC, this alignment allows their forest products to compete in the growing market for sustainably sourced forest products.

DRC boasts over 155 million hectares (67% of DRC’s total area and 60% of the Congo Basin’s Forest area), representing 18% of the world’s tropical forests and storing around 8% of the world’s forest carbon. These forests, which are mainly comprised of equatorial rainforests, dry forests, swamp forests, and mountain forests, are home to incredibly rich biodiversity with over 23 million hectares of protected areas and play a crucial socio-economic role for over 40 million people.

So far, over 6 million hectares of forest in the Congo Basin have been certified as sustainably managed under FSC certification (which represents roughly 12% of exploitable forests estimated at 47.5 million ha by OFAC). Different studies demonstrate that FSC-certified forests in the Congo Basin help protect large mammals and critically endangered species, such as gorillas and elephants. Embracing the new FSC standard for DRC offers an excellent opportunity for the sustainable management and protection of these high conservation value forest areas, promoting long-term environmental sustainability.

This could create a pathway for the DRC government, the private sector, and development partners to unlock the potential of the country’s forest sector.

The development process of this FSS began in 2015 with the creation of a chamber-balanced standard development group in the DRC. The standard development group developed the national standard following a multi-stakeholder engagement process with companies, NGOs, civil society organizations, and social stakeholders, including representatives of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. The new Standard was subjected to field testing and stakeholder involvement to ensure its applicability in the country, address concerns, give equal opportunities for feedback, and foster consensus from economic, environmental, and social perspectives to ensure sustainability.

The standard will provide independent evidence of responsible forest management and promote continuous improvement in addressing key issues like maintaining intact forest landscapes, preserving the country’s biodiversity, and protecting the rights of local communities, Indigenous, and Traditional Peoples.

For any queries on the standard, please get in touch with Pepe DUNGU, FSC Standard Development Group Coordinator, DRC. email address: pepedungu@gmail.com

The FSS for the Democratic Republic of Congo (English and French versions) can be consulted in the FSC Document Center (https://apo-opa.co/4lFUjo3).

Visit FSC Africa website (https://apo-opa.co/46Ab93t) for more related news.

Links to some news feeds on the standard development process:

Meeting to finalize FSC standard concludes in DR Congo (https://apo-opa.co/44BEub1)

Relaunch of the National Forest Stewardship Standard development process in the Democratic Republic of Congo (https://apo-opa.co/3GDzyul)

“After a long development process, the DRC has received approval of its FSC certification standard. This is a strong signal and an unforgettable achievement in the history of forest management in our country.

This tool will serve as a lever to ensure the sustainable management of our forests, guaranteeing high production and opening up to more profitable timber and carbon markets. The momentum of forest certification in the DRC is aligned with the vision of the forest regime at a time when the country is developing its first-ever forest policy, which will lead to the revision of the Forest Code and its implementing measures. 

We commend the efforts made by the FSC Policy Manager in Africa, as well as all the members of the Standard Development Group (SDG-DRC) since the beginning of the process.” 

(Pepe DUNGU, DRC Standard Development Group Chairperson).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Forest Stewardship Council.

Media contacts:
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 

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Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) Board Inaugurated

Source: APO


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Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko, has sworn in an eight-member Board of the Ghana Infrastructure Investment Fund (GIIF) at a brief ceremony in Accra.

Speaking at the inauguration, the Deputy Minister highlighted the government’s confidence in the newly constituted Board, stating that their appointment reflected trust in their expertise and leadership.

He urged the Board to prioritize the identification and funding of bankable infrastructure projects that have the potential to attract both local and international investment, thereby advancing sustainable economic growth and development.

The newly sworn-in Board is chaired by Mr. Franklin Mensah, with other members including GIIF Chief Executive Officer Nana Dwemoh Benneh, Hon. Theresa Lardi Awuni, Dr. Eric Afful, Hon. Thomas Worlanyo Tsekpo, Ms. Harriet Anewenah, Ms. Linda Quaynor, and Nana Ansah Kwao IV.

On his part, Board Chairman Mr. Franklin Mensah expressed gratitude to President Mahama and the Minister for Finance for the confidence reposed in the team and assured that the Board will be results-driven and committed to delivering on its mandate.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Finance – Republic of Ghana.

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From Innovation to Impact: Angolan Oilfield Service Providers Join Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025

Source: APO

With Angola’s oil and gas industry on track for significant growth, driven by $60 billion in upstream investment over the next five years, the demand for innovative oilfield services is also anticipated to rise. As sub-Saharan Africa’s second largest oil producer, the country already boasts the presence of several major regional and global service providers, all of which are eager to step-up their support of Angola’s upstream oil and gas projects.

This year’s Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition – taking place September 3-4 in Luanda – will feature speakers from Angola’s leading service providers. At the helm of these is Bráulio de Brito, President of the Angola Oil & Gas Service Companies Association (AECIPA). As an association representing the country’s service companies, AECIPA promotes, supports and sponsors professional initiatives of service companies in the country, with the aim of driving economic growth through inclusive investments and local content. At AOG 2024, de Brito highlighted the value of preparing Angolan service providers to better-support the industry. De Brito returns to AOG 2025 to discuss strategies for fostering inclusion and innovative growth.

João Filipe, Chairman & CEO of Cabship, has also joined the event as a speaker. Celebrating 16 years of operations in 2025, Cabship continues to prioritize digitalization, diversification and optimized service delivery across the country. The company is strengthening the Angolan oil and gas value chain by driving investment in key sectors, including logistics and infrastructure. Notable developments include the acquisition of a 50,000 m² construction yard near Malongo in Cabinda. The yard will enhance the company’s fabrication and logistics capabilities in both Cabinda and Soyo. Cabship is also developing a diving and offshore marine support company in the Cabinda Special Economic Zone. Groundwork for the establishment is already underway, signaling new opportunities for enhance service delivery offshore Angola. Cabship is also a Gold Sponsor of AOG 2025.

Oceaneering is also expanding its service offerings with aims to strengthen oil and gas project support in Angola. With a strong track record of delivering innovative solutions offshore, Oceaneering has committed to supporting Angolan oil production. The company offers a variety of services, including remotely operated vehicles and remote operations, diving services, asset integrity and inspection, vessel management and engineering, machining and fabrication. The company has provided support for projects across Block 17 – one of Angola’s legacy fields -, Block 18 and Block 31. Earl Childress, CCO and SVP: Business Development at Oceaneering, will speak at AOG 2025. Oceaneering is a Silver Sponsor at the event.

Landry Pouna, Director of Operations, KAESO Energy Services, is expected to share insight into the company’s tailored and cost-effective solutions. With operations across Angola and Namibia, KAESO Energy Services seeks to improve asset reliability, extend production lifecycles and reduce operational risks, all while building domestic technical capabilities. At AOG 2025, Pouna’s insights will support future partnerships between the company and international operators.

Meanwhile, Aarti Dange, Director of Customer Experience, Emerson, will build on these discussions, sharing insight into the company’s expansion strategy in Angola. Emerson recently partnered with MSTelcom – a subsidiary of Angolan national oil company Sonangol – to provide its full automation portfolio for energy and industrial customers in the country. The partnership supports Angolan hydrocarbon production by leveraging Emerson’s global expertise and modernized technologies.

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

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Message from the Chairperson of the African Union Commission on Independence Day of the Republic of South Sudan

Source: APO


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The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, extends his warmest congratulations to the Government and people of the Republic of South Sudan on the occasion of their Independence Day.

This day marks an important milestone in South Sudan’s journey toward freedom, unity, and nation-building. The African Union commends the resilience and determination of the South Sudanese people and stands in solidarity with their aspirations for peace, stability, and development.

The African Union remains firmly committed to working hand in hand with South Sudan to advance regional integration, promote sustainable development, and uphold the shared values of Pan-Africanism and unity.

Happy Independence Day!

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Message of support by Deputy Minister Nonceba Mhlauli to the Breakfast Engagement on Emergency Response to Teenage Pregnancy, Tshedimosetso House, GCIS Offices

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Director,
Honourable Deputy Minister Letsike,
Distinguished guests, colleagues, and partners from across Government and civil society,
Good morning,

I am honoured to offer a message of support at this critical engagement. Teenage pregnancy in South Africa has reached deeply concerning levels, with more than 90,000 births recorded among girls aged 10 to 19. These are not just numbers, they are a stark reflection of our socio-economic challenges, and a call to action.

Teenage pregnancy is more than a health crisis. It represents the intersection of poverty, gender-based violence, inequality, and systemic exclusion. It disrupts education, deepens economic hardship, and too often leads to long-term cycles of vulnerability for young mothers and their children.

Our response must therefore be urgent, coordinated and compassionate.

As we close Youth Month, we must reaffirm a central truth: young people deserve the freedom and support to reach their full potential. That starts with keeping them in school, encouraging participation in sport, arts, leadership programmes, and community initiatives. It is through these avenues that young people build confidence, life skills, and purpose.

We must also say, without hesitation, that it is not normal or acceptable for teenage girls some as young as 10 to be giving birth. Many of these cases point to statutory rape, abuse of power, and the failure of enforcement. We need stronger prevention, accountability, and community action.

Government cannot do this work alone. We need the support of all pillars of society: parents, faith leaders, educators, civil society, the media, and the private sector. As the saying goes, “it takes a village to raise a child.” That village must now stand tall.

As The Presidency, we are committed to supporting this cause through improved coordination, targeted interventions, and policy coherence because the future of our country depends on the safety, empowerment and well-being of our children.

Let us use today to renew our resolve. Let us move from discussion to decisive action.

Thank you. Kea leboha. Enkosi.

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Minister tables R509 million DPME budget

Source: Government of South Africa

The Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) has been allocated a budget of R509 million for the 2025/26 financial year, which will support efforts to strengthen government capacity and deliver on South Africa’s key development priorities.

Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, supported by Deputy Minister Seiso Mohai, presented the 2025 Budget Vote of the department in Parliament on Tuesday.

Addressing Parliament, Minister Ramokgopa highlighted the DPME’s key mandate to coordinate and integrate government planning, monitor implementation of the National Development Plan (NDP) Vision 2030 and the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024–2029, and evaluate government programmes to improve performance and accountability across the state.

“Over the past few years, attempts have been made to strengthen the mandate of DPME through the Planning Bill. We are now shifting focus and considering a White Paper process which will enable us to clarify a cohort of questions that have been raised by various stakeholders within and outside of government,” said the Minister.

The Minister reported significant progress, including Cabinet approval of the MTDP 2024–2029 in February 2025, with implementation already underway. The MTDP’s strategic priorities are:

  • Driving inclusive economic growth and job creation,
  • Reducing poverty and addressing the high cost of living,
  • Building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

“Successful implementation of the MTDP must be demonstrated through the achievement of its set targets and improved living conditions of citizens. It is not enough to plan — we must see results, and we must be held accountable for those results,” said Ramokgopa.

The DPME is facilitating the alignment of national, provincial, and local government planning processes, including efforts to integrate the MTDP with Provincial Growth and Development Strategies, beginning with the Northern Cape.

The Minister emphasised the department’s role in reforming State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), with the tabling of the National State Enterprises Bill (B1-2024), which proposes a centralised shareholder model to improve SOE governance, performance, and economic impact.

In addition, the DPME is leading the implementation of a forward-looking Evidence Plan to enhance research, evaluation, and data systems. This will enable evidence-based decision-making and improve transparency and accountability, supported by modernised reporting and digital dashboards.

“Our work must be backed by credible evidence, and that evidence must lead to impact. We are committed to building a state that listens, learns, and delivers measurable change,” said Ramokgopa. 

The Minister noted the importance of strengthening collaboration with Parliament, oversight institutions, and other stakeholders, highlighting recent capacity-building workshops and ongoing bilateral engagements.

South Africa’s role as Chair of the Development Working Group under the G20 Presidency was also underscored, with priorities including mobilising finance for development, advancing social protection floors, and championing global public goods. – SAnews.gov.za

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Department working on turning SA into a successful tourism nation

Source: Government of South Africa

Department working on turning SA into a successful tourism nation

Tourism is a vehicle for creating jobs, destroying poverty and creating inclusive economic growth and sustainability, says Deputy Minister of Tourism Maggie Sotyu.

“The nation has given this Government of National Unity a clear mandate to turn South Africa into a successful tourism nation and to unite all of us – citizens, visitors and tourists alike – in the joy of discovering our country, discovering each other, and in the shared hope of equality for all,” said the Deputy Minister.

She was speaking at the tabling of the department’s Budget Vote in Cape Town on Tuesday.

Sotyu said sustainable SMMEs are key drivers of inclusive growth and poverty eradication; therefore, economic growth without transformation entrenches exclusion and transformation without growth is unsustainable

The department, together with South African Tourism, champions conditions for sustainability. 

“To lower the many barriers that inhibit SMMEs’ entry into the hotel industry, for example, the department has a programme called the Tourism Grading Support Programme (TGSP) which continues to subsidise grading costs. 

“In financial year 2024/25, the TGSP supported 2 970 establishments, encouraging active participation in the TGCSA’s grading system. These efforts contribute to the standardisation of service excellence, helping South Africa to remain competitive in global tourism markets.”

To sustain profits and benefit the local economy, the department will continue to support the tourism industry towards reaching the threshold of local development.

“Some big hotels do not appear in the list of graded establishments on the website of the Tourism Grading Council but still ‘sell’ themselves as 5-star hotels. 

“To ensure that the grading system remains world-class and relevant to our local environment in South Africa, we have initiated the Grading Criteria Review which will be finalised this financial year. 

“Grading of tourist establishments that host international events is a crucial factor in the sustainability of economic growth and job creation. 

“It is for this reason the South African National Conventions Bureau (SANCB), through the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sub-sector, will focus on capitalising on previous successes to accelerate growth through the consolidation of multiple national efforts when bidding for international meetings.”

The secured conferences will also contribute to the regional spread of business events. 

Given that tourism is a highly labour-intensive industry, people will rightfully expect to see significant local employment within these successfully bided international conferences. 

The Deputy Minister said the biggest international conference to be held in South Africa later this year, the G20, will be a catalyst for this yearned-for job creation. 

“The G20 presents an opportunity to showcase the nation’s unparalleled hospitality, world-class infrastructure, quality-assured accommodations, and experiences, as well as its ability to host global events. 

“As the department, we are very committed to ensure that no one is left behind on the knowledge, importance and benefit of this G20,” said Sotyu. – SAnews.gov.za

Janine

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Gauteng’s Rustervaal Clinic closes temporarily

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng’s Rustervaal Clinic closes temporarily

The Gauteng Department of Health has announced the temporarily closure of the Rustervaal Clinic for safety reasons emanating from infrastructural challenges.

“During the temporary closure, patients are advised to access health services from neighbouring public health facilities. Furthermore, there will be daily transportation via the Gauteng Scheduled Emergency Transport (G-SET) to and from Rustervaal Clinic to Market Avenue Clinic in Vereeniging between Monday to Friday at 8 am,” said the department.

The clinic, which serves the community of Emfuleni, including Rochnee, Springcol and the Ramaphosa informal settlement closed on Monday.

“The Department of Employment and Labour has issued a prohibition notice preventing the use of the Rustervaal Clinic until the identified infrastructural challenges (such as the dilapidated sections of building, collapsing ceiling in one of the rooms, poor electrical network in another section) are addressed. 

“The Gauteng Department of Health affirms its commitment to addressing the infrastructural challenges at Rustervaal Clinic as part of the broader Infrastructure Revitalisation Plan that is underway across all five health districts in the province,” said the department in a statement on Tuesday.

The plan includes not only rehabilitating existing infrastructure, but also constructing new facilities to meet the increasing demand. 

“It is not yet clear how long the clinic will be closed. This will be subject to a full assessment of the facility and budget reallocation. However, as part of the commitment to expand access to healthcare services for the growing community of Emfuleni, work is already underway to convert Johan Heyns Community Health Centre (CHC) into a district hospital. 

“This will improve access to quality health care by expanding primary health care and specialist services to both in-patients and outpatients, ultimately reducing the volume of referrals to Sebokeng Regional Hospital.”

The provincial department assured the community of Emfuleni that the required infrastructural upgrades at the clinic is receiving urgent attention and appeals for cooperation as patients are diverted to nearby facilities. – SAnews.gov.za

Neo

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SARS extends due date for filing EMP201

Source: Government of South Africa

SARS extends due date for filing EMP201

South African Revenue Service (SARS) Commissioner, Edward Kieswetter, has extended the due date for EMP201 filing and payment to 14 July 2025.

EMP201 is a tax return that is submitted by an employer to SARS on a monthly basis.

The extension was granted following the higher than expected volumes that were experienced on Monday which caused SARS systems to take longer to respond than expected. 

“We recognise that some employers experienced delays in submitting their monthly EMP201’s and as a result we will consider not imposing penalties and interest in relation to employers who would otherwise have been compliant.

“This process of payment is governed by paragraphs 2(1) and 14(2) of the Fourth Schedule to the Income Tax Act 58 of 1962, which provides for the payment of Pay As You Earn (PAYE), Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) and Skills Development Levy (SDL), and the submission of the EMP201 form within a period of seven days after the end of the month during which the amounts that were withheld from remuneration paid to employees,” SARS said.

In terms of section 3 of the Income Tax Act, the Commissioner for SARS has the discretionary power to extend the respective due dates. 

“In the exercise of that discretionary authority, SARS Commissioner has extended the due date for filing and payment be extended to Monday, 14 July 2025.

“The practical implication of this decision is that SARS will not impose penalties and interest in relation to employers who would otherwise have been compliant. Taxpayers are encouraged to submit their EMP201 returns before 14 July to avoid late penalties,” the revenue service said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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