Category: Africa

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Canon expands its cinema camera range with the EOS C50 – a compact, flexible new addition for creative professionals

Source: APO – Report:

Canon Europe (www.Canon-Europe.com) today announces the new EOS C50, a highly versatile, full-frame, RF-mount hybrid Cinema EOS camera for professional videographers and agile production crews.

As the smallest camera in the Cinema EOS range to date, the EOS C50 fits seamlessly into a wide variety of filming set-ups – from fast-paced shoots to large scale productions. Its compact design, however, conceals a wealth of professional capabilities.

At the heart of the EOS C50’s unique design is a new 7K full-frame CMOS sensor which, together with an advanced DIGIC DV 7 processor, delivers outstanding image quality for both video and stills – including internal RAW video recording at up to 7K 60P, high frame rate recording at up to 4K 120P / 2K 180P, and detailed 32MP high-resolution photos.

The EOS C50 is the first Cinema EOS camera to offer open gate recording, which uses the entire area of the sensor for maximum resolution and flexibility. Capturing the full width and height of the sensor using the new Full Frame 3:2 sensor mode [i] provides a larger image that utilises the full image circle of full-frame lenses. Open gate recording offers filmmakers greater flexibility in post-production, enabling horizontal and vertical movie formats to be freely edited from the same footage, with ample room for reframing shots. When paired with anamorphic lenses, the result is a taller image with a wide immersive cinematic look.

For videographers facing fast turnarounds, a full-angle image and a cropped vertical or square version – ideal for social media and advertising – can be captured at the same time using the EOS C50’s Simultaneous Crop Recording function. The cropped area can be shifted horizontally for optimum framing and recorded in a different format to meet delivery requirements.

Combining high-resolution with hybrid capability for video and stills

As a true hybrid camera, the EOS C50 combines advanced 7K video and 32MP stills capabilities. The display is optimised based on whether the camera is in Video or Photo mode – featuring the familiar Cinema EOS interface for video and classic Canon EOS R menu system for stills.

Videographers and photographers alike can take advantage of Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF II, offering high-speed, high-accuracy subject detection and tracking. Precision extends to selecting which eye to prioritise in people, dogs, cats and birds – with additional controls for tuning autofocus speed and tracking response to suit the subject.

A unique and versatile design that adapts to dynamic shoots

Built for agility, the EOS C50’s lightweight, modular design enables intuitive operation, whether shooting handheld or on a gimbal. With its linear, low-profile body and multiple accessory mounting points, it integrates seamlessly into modern rigging setups. The camera can be mounted either horizontally or vertically, with the display and menu settings automatically adjusting to support vertical orientation.

The EOS C50’s detachable handle unit improves control and comfort. It features two full-size 3-pin XLR audio terminals and control dials for professional-quality audio recording, plus a REC button and zoom rocker for convenient, camcorder-style control during fast-paced shoots.

In addition to native support of the diverse range of RF lenses, EF/PL lenses can be attached to the EOS C50 via the optional Canon PL-RF Mount Adapter, which can be securely fastened to the camera body, as well as a selection of Canon EF-EOS R mount adapters.

Effortless connection options for diverse workflows

An extensive selection of connectivity options ensures that the EOS C50 meets the demands of modern professional productions. In addition to XLR inputs, the camera features a MIC terminal, Timecode terminal, HDMI OUT (Type-A) and USB (Type-C). Dual card slots for CFexpress and SD cards provide a wealth of simultaneous recording options, including different file formats, resolutions and proxy setups.

The EOS C50 includes UVC/UAC support for high-resolution livestreaming at up to 60P/50P via a single USB cable, plus XC Protocol for remote operation of the camera using compatible smartphone applications or hardware accessories such as Canon’s RC-IP1000 Remote Controller. Video clips and still images can be transmitted to clients in real time over Wi-Fi or USB [ii] with Canon’s professional Content Transfer Professional (CTP) app [iii].

Canon’s collaboration with Adobe has been extended to the EOS C50 by making the camera compatible with Frame.io’s Camera to Cloud connectivity. Along with the EOS C400 and the EOS C80, this compatibility allows proxy files to be sent directly from the camera to the Frame.io platform, enabling a seamless and reliable path from production to post.

With its robust connectivity, flexible design and powerful full-frame capabilities, the EOS C50 sets a new standard for compact cinema cameras. Building on the success of the EOS R5 C, it delivers uncompromising image quality for both video and still photography.

Canon is also delighted to announce a range of significant free-of-charge firmware updates for existing Cinema EOS cameras coming later this year. This includes the addition of 3:2 Open Gate RAW Recording at 6000×4000 resolution to the EOS C400, View Assist during Playback on the EOS C80, among other improvements to core features such as focus peaking on both cameras, as well as the EOS R5 C and EOS C70.

Key features of the EOS C50:

  • High-resolution hybrid capability: 7K 60p internal RAW video recording, 32MP still photos
  • Advanced 7K full-frame CMOS sensor with open gate video recording
  • 7K oversampling for higher resolution 4K movies
  • Dual Base ISO support (ISO 800/6400 [iv]), with up to 15+ stops of dynamic range
  • Flexible range of professional recording formats, including 12-bit Cinema RAW Light, Canon Log 2, Canon Log 3 and XF-AVC S / XF-HEVC S
  • Versatile, compact design with detachable handle unit and extensive rigging capability
  • Native RF mount, compatible with mount adapter attachment for EF/PL lenses
  • Two XLR audio inputs, Timecode terminal, HDMI OUT (Type-A), USB (Type-C), Multi-function shoe
  • Dual slots for CFexpress and SD cards, enabling simultaneous recording of different formats to each card

For more information about the new EOS C50, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/45Y4vU8

 

[i] Only supported for Cinema RAW Light / XF HEVC S recording

[ii] Refer to the Content Transfer Professional user guide for details on USB cables for wired connections

[iii] Only MP4, JPEG, WAV, and XML (NewsML-G2) files can be transferred

[iv] For Canon Log 2/Canon Log 3/RAW recording

– on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (http://apo-opa.co/4gkrtIH) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

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Government welcomes Walmart’s investment

Source: Government of South Africa

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

Government has welcomed plans by Walmart to open its first branded stores in South Africa later this year.

“Government welcomes Walmart’s investment in South Africa as an expression of confidence in the country. The investment underscores a strong belief in the country’s economic trajectory and confirmation that South Africa remains a reliable investment destination,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.

This announcement comes in the footsteps of Walmart’s first growth summit that was held in South Africa and resulted in the company recruiting small and medium-sized suppliers from South Africa and the rest of the African continent. 

“Walmart’s commitment to sourcing locally produced products will contribute to the growth of the economy and job creation, which are apex priorities of the government’s medium term development plan (MTDP),” GCIS said.

Walmart International President and CEO Kath McLay expressed that the company was thrilled to begin the journey of introducing the iconic Walmart brand to South African associates, customers and communities.

“By listening and working together, we aim to build lasting relationships and deliver a delightful shopping experience that reflects the needs and aspirations of South Africans,” McLay said.

Walmart’s South African stores will offer a wide range of merchandise, including fresh groceries, household essentials, apparel and technology. 

Walmart will also offer a variety of locally sourced products. 

“By partnering with South African suppliers and entrepreneurs, Walmart will bring its signature Every Day Low Prices and global standards to the market, while celebrating the country’s rich culture.

“With sites already in development, these new stores are set to open before the end of the year, with official opening dates to be announced in October. The company will share further details about store locations, hiring and community initiatives in the coming months,” McLay said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Postbank not yet ready for full banking licence, says President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa says Postbank is not yet in a position to be granted a licence to operate as a fully-fledged State-owned bank.

Responding to questions in the National Assembly on Tuesday, the President stressed that while financial inclusion remains a national priority, Postbank still has work to do before it can qualify for a commercial banking licence.

ANC Member of Parliament, Mdumiseni Ntuli, asked what measures government is taking to support the Postbank in obtaining its commercial banking licence and whether government has established the need to capitalise the institution. 

“According to the Minister, Postbank has not yet fully met the conditions for a banking licence, particularly around its card key management processes and compliance with prudential standards.

“Its immediate challenge is to strengthen its governance, ensure compliance with prudential standards and stabilise its finances,” President Ramaphosa said.

Government remains committed to supporting the Postbank to obtain its licence, as it is meant to play a critical role in extending affordable banking services to underserved communities, small businesses, and youth- and women-owned enterprises.

“When more South Africans, especially those in rural and underserved communities, are able to access affordable banking and credit, we unlock entrepreneurship, support job creation and stimulate growth in local economies.

“Financial inclusion also empowers youth- and women-owned enterprises, narrows inequality and builds resilience in households and communities,” he said.

The President explained that South Africa has a well-developed and competitive financial services sector and its commercial banks, development finance institutions, co-operative banks and new digital entrants, all provide a range of financial products and services to small businesses and individuals. 

“The Postbank Amendment Act was enacted to strengthen the diversity of our financial sector and ensure a dedicated focus on underserved communities.

“The Act was meant to establish Postbank as a developmental State-owned commercial bank, offering accessible financial services to all South Africans,” he said. 

The President further explained that while capitalisation will be considered, it will only take place after Postbank has been granted authorisation to establish a bank. Once authorisation is secured, the institution will have 12 months to raise the necessary funding to be registered as a bank.

He said that this will be determined by its business case, for which the Postbank board is responsible, and submitting that business case to government via the Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies.

“These steps are essential to ensure that Postbank obtains its banking licence and is able to fulfil the vital mandate that it bears to promote financial inclusion for all,” President Ramaphosa said.

In answering further supplementary questions on the matter, President Ramaphosa indicated that government will not rule out the possibility of bringing together African Bank and Postbank as part of establishing a state bank. 

He told Parliament that all available assets may need to be leveraged to extend banking services to South Africa’s unbanked population.

“There is a general agreement that we need a state bank. The key question is how we move forward to put a bank together, and how we put all key elements together – whether it resides in Postbank or whether African Bank could be part of it.

“We must remind ourselves that African Bank has other shareholders who aren’t state entities. All those entities need to be synchronised to create a state bank,” the President told MPs. – SAnews.gov.za

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Acting Police Minister engages WC communities on gang violence

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia on Tuesday held an engagement with community stakeholders in Mitchells Plain and Mfuleni in an effort to curb violence linked to gang activity in the Western Cape.

The Minister’s visit forms part of a broader Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster effort aim to implement practical, community-driven interventions against gang violence and foster safety.

Among the stakeholders attended the engagements included representatives from civic groups, religious leaders and Community Policing Forums (CPFs). 

Cachalia said gang violence in the province are as a result of organised transnational crime, stressing the need for a coordinated response. 

Cachalia said he requested a briefing from National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola on what the South African Police Service (SAPS) is doing to curb the violence, including the effectiveness of anti-gang units that has been established.

“I am aware of course that some time ago anti-gang units were put in place. There’s been some question about their effectiveness, and I intend to look into that,” he said.

Gang violence in areas like Mitchells Plain and Mfuleni has been going on for some time, with communities experiencing high levels of extortion, shootings and drug-related crimes. 

The Cape Flats, including some suburbs, sees frequent clashes between rival gangs such as the Americans and Mongrels, leading to crossfire that endangers innocent residents.

Mitchells Plain residents told Cachalia that they need increased police presence to protect them from gangsters’ violence.

Cachalia pledged to do everything in his power to improve policing and reducing crime in the country. 

Cachalia said the provincial commissioner and the head of crime intelligence presented him with a strategy to fight crime in the affected areas.

“They must still implement that plan. They must still resource that plan, that plan is needed. So we need a stabilisation plan.

“We need to go on the offensive against the drug lords, stabilise our communities, make sure that we are in charge, not the criminals,” he said.

Cachalia said that they might have to put in place special measures to get rid of gangsterism.

A number of people have died in gang-related violence. 

The acting Minister and his delegation are expected to meet with the Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, on Thursday. – SAnews.gov.za

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De l’Afrique à Moscou: la capitale russe s’impose comme nouveau pôle mondial de la mode

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French

Les créateurs africains renforcent leur présence sur les podiums internationaux, témoignant de la scène mode dynamique et en pleine expansion du continent. Cette année, le calendrier mondial des Fashion Weeks a débuté à Moscou, avec la participation enthousiaste des pays africains. La Moscow Fashion Week (https://MoscowFashion.ru/), qui s’est tenue début septembre, a dépassé les attentes en attirant l’attention mondiale et en présentant les talents venus du monde entier.

Des créateurs de 13 pays se sont donné rendez-vous à Moscou pour l’événement. Parmi eux figurait David Tlale, le couturier sud-africain de renom. Habitué des podiums russes, David Tlale a déjà présenté ses collections à Moscou par le passé. Cette saison, il entend raconter au monde une histoire authentique de l’Afrique à travers ses créations.

« Chaque collection raconte des histoires africaines dans des tons sophistiqués mais puissants, reliant les traditions ancestrales à l’innovation de la mode contemporaine », déclare David Tlale.

Créateur déjà établi, David Tlale a présenté ses œuvres lors des Fashion Weeks de New York, Paris, Shanghai et Dubaï. Cette année, il a choisi Moscou pour dévoiler sa nouvelle collection.

« La collection célèbre la femme moderne active – confiante, élégante et d’une polyvalence sans effort. Conçue pour des transitions fluides, elle passe du bureau au thé de l’après-midi, puis au cocktail du soir avec grâce. Elle incarne la sophistication raffinée en toute circonstance », explique David Tlale.

Les marques russes gagnent également du terrain en Afrique. Des créateurs comme Solangel ont participé à la Soweto Fashion Week en Afrique du Sud en 2024, tandis que Darya Kipriyanova a présenté sa collection lors de la Hub of Africa Fashion Week en 2025. Les liens solides entre l’Afrique et la Russie s’étendent à tous les secteurs, y compris la culture et la mode, reflétant un échange croissant d’idées et d’inspiration.

Parallèlement à la Moscow Fashion Week, le BRICS+ Fashion Summit (https://FashionSummit.org/) s’est récemment tenu dans la capitale russe. L’événement a réuni des délégations des membres à part entière des BRICS – Afrique du Sud, Égypte et Éthiopie –, ainsi que des représentants d’autres pays. Parmi les participants africains figuraient Mmantlha Sankoloba, directrice générale de l’Association des exportateurs et fabricants du Botswana ; Nana Tamakloe, directeur générale de l’Accra Fashion Week (Ghana) ; Kalistu Ramos Mukoroli, directeur de la MTC Windhoek Fashion Week (Namibie) ; et Brian James Kihindas, directeur du Kenya Fashion Council et de la Nairobi Fashion Week (Kenya). Le Sommet a offert aux dirigeants de l’industrie africaine une tribune unique pour échanger leur expertise avec leurs homologues européens, américains et russes.

« Mes attentes se concentrent sur l’approfondissement de la collaboration mondiale, notamment entre les écosystèmes de mode africains et les marchés émergents », souligne Brian James Kihindas. « Je suis particulièrement désireux d’explorer des partenariats stratégiques qui peuvent conduire à des systèmes de mode plus inclusifs et équitables, où les créatifs et artisans africains ne sont pas seulement célébrés mais activement intégrés dans les chaînes de valeur mondiales. »

La mode africaine captive toujours le public moscovite. Authentique, audacieuse et vibrante, elle raconte les histoires riches et les traditions de ses nations à travers les couleurs, les textures et les émotions. Pour l’Afrique, la Moscow Fashion Week représente bien plus qu’un événement – c’est une porte d’entrée vers la reconnaissance internationale, favorisant les échanges culturels et ouvrant les portes des marchés mondiaux de la mode.

Distribué par APO Group pour Moscow Fashion Week.

Contact:
Amanda Smith
info@globaltalents.digital

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From Africa to Moscow: The Russian Capital Emerged as a New Global Fashion Hub

Source: APO – Report:

African designers are making a stronger presence on international runways, reflecting the continent’s dynamic and fast-growing fashion scene. This year, the global Fashion Week calendar began in Moscow, and African countries eagerly participated in the event. Moscow Fashion Week (https://MoscowFashion.ru/), held in early September, surpassed expectations, attracting global attention and showcasing talent from all over the world.

Designers from 13 countries converged on Moscow for the event. Among them was David Tlale, the acclaimed couturier from South Africa. A familiar face on Russian runways, David Tlale has showcased his collections in Moscow before. This season, he aims to tell the world an authentic story of Africa through his designs.

“Each collection narrates African stories in sophisticated yet powerful tones, connecting past traditions with modern fashion innovation,” says David Tlale.

Already an established designer, David Tlale has presented his creations at New York, Paris, Shanghai, and Dubai Fashion Weeks. This year, he chose Moscow to debut his new collection.

“The collection celebrates the modern working woman – confident, elegant, and effortlessly versatile. Designed for seamless transitions, she moves from the office to high tea, and on to an evening cocktail party with grace. She embodies refined sophistication in every setting,” explains David Tlale.

Russian brands are also gaining momentum in Africa. Designers like Solangel participated in South Africa’s Soweto Fashion Week in 2024, while Darya Kipriyanova presented her collection at Hub of Africa Fashion Week in 2025. Strong ties between Africa and Russia extend across industries, including culture and fashion, reflecting a growing exchange of ideas and inspiration.

Alongside Moscow Fashion Week, the BRICS+ Fashion Summit (https://FashionSummit.org/) recently unfolded in the Russian capital. The event brought together delegations from full BRICS members South Africa, Egypt, and Ethiopia, as well as representatives from other countries. Among the African attendees were Mmantlha Sankoloba, CEO of the Botswana Exporters and Manufacturers Association (Botswana); Nana Tamakloe, CEO of Accra Fashion Week (Ghana); Kalistu Ramos Mukoroli, Director of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week (Namibia); and Brian James Kihindas, Director of Kenya Fashion Council and Nairobi Fashion Week (Kenya). The Summit offered African industry leaders a unique stage to exchange expertise with European, American, and Russian counterparts.

“My expectations center around deepening global collaboration, especially between African fashion ecosystems and emerging markets,” notes Brian James Kihindas. “I’m particularly keen on exploring strategic partnerships that can lead to more inclusive and equitable fashion systems, where African creatives and artisans are not only celebrated but actively integrated into global value chains.”

African fashion in Moscow always captivates the audience. Authentic, bold, and vibrant, it tells the rich stories and traditions of its nations with color, texture, and emotion. For Africa, Moscow Fashion Week is more than an event – it is a gateway to international recognition, fostering cultural exchange and opening doors to global fashion markets.

– on behalf of Moscow Fashion Week.

Contact:
Amanda Smith
info@globaltalents.digital

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Ambassador Han Jing met with Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning of Zambia

Source: APO – Report:

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On 9 September, the Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Mr. Han Jing, met with the Hon. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning of Zambia, to exchange views on further deepening China-Zambia tangible cooperation.

Ambassador Han stated that the China and Zambia shares a long-standing tradition of friendship. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of two countries, cooperation across various fields has continued to deepen and become more substantive. Key projects such as the revitalization of TAZARA have made positive progress, while bilateral debt restructuring has accelerated, bringing substantial benefits to the peoples of both nations.

Minister Musokotwane expressed gratitude for the Chinese government’s longstanding support across various sectors in Zambia. He noted that Chinese enterprises investing in Zambia have provided local employment opportunities and driven the nation’s economic development. The Zambian government will foster a better environment to welcome more Chinese enterprises to invest, achieving mutual benefit and pursuing shared development with Zambia.

– on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Zambia.

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Multilateral development banks hit record $137 billion in climate finance, driving sustainable development worldwide

Source: APO – Report:

  • New report shows climate finance by multilateral development banks rose 10% in 2024 compared with previous year.
  • MDBs’ climate finance for low- and middle-income economies increased 14% to more than $85 billion.

Multilateral development banks (MDBs) delivered a record $137 billion in global climate finance last year—a 10% increase that underscores the growing scale of international climate investment. The majority of this funding flowed to low- and middle-income economies, according to a report published today by the European Investment Bank (EIB) with participation from other MDBs, including the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org).

In addition, MDBs mobilized $134 billion in private finance for climate action in 2024, a 33% increase from the year earlier, according to 2024 Joint Report on Multilateral Development Banks’ Climate Finance.

Expanding climate finance will be a central theme at COP30, which is scheduled to take place in Belém, Brazil in November 2025. At the COP29 summit, held late last year in Baku, countries agreed to scale up support for developing countries to at least $1.3 trillion annually from public and private sources by 2035. The findings are expected to inform discussions during the conference.

“Africa is pushing the pedal on actions that transform Africa’s green potential in energy, nature-based solutions, innovation and a vibrant workforce,” said Anthony Nyong, African Development Bank Director for Climate Change and Green Growth.

“And we are putting climate adaptation at the heart of this effort. At the African Development Bank, we are walking the talk, we continuously meet our climate finance annual target and over half of our climate finance goes to helping African countries build resilience, protect livelihoods, and secure a climate-resilience future, while still investing in greener future,”

Key report findings

Low- and Middle-Income Economies

  • Received $85.1 billion in MDB climate finance, representing a 14% year-on-year increase
  • Climate finance in these countries more than doubled over the past five years
  • $58.8 billion (69%) targeted climate change mitigation, while $26.3 billion (31%) addressed adaptation
  • Private finance mobilized for climate investments stood at $33 billion

High-Income Economies

  • Received $51.5 billion in MDB climate finance
  • $46.5 billion (90%) supported climate change mitigation, with $5 billion (10%) addressing adaptation
  • Private finance mobilized for climate investments reached $101 billion

The 2024 Multilateral Development Bank Climate Finance Report was prepared by the EIB with assistance from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. It combines data from both institutions as well as from the African Development Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the Council of Europe Development Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank Group, the Islamic Development Bank, the New Development Bank and the World Bank Group.

The report comes as MDBs are taking steps to increase the transparency of their climate financing through digitalization initiative that will make their data more accessible and user-friendly.

Click here for an overview of the 2024 report results.

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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Ambassador Han Jing Meets with Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia

Source: APO – Report:

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On 9 September 2025, Ambassador Han Jing met with Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, and exchanged views on the bilateral relations and other issues of mutual interest. 

Ambassador Han said that China and Zambia had so far achieved fruitful results in their cooperation across the board and enjoyed close communication and coordination in multilateral arena. Following the three major global initiatives, the Global Governance Initiative, proposed by President Xi Jinping, is another important global public good that China has contributed to the world. China is ready to offer more Chinese wisdom and solutions to the reform of the global governance system and will continue to collaborate closely with Zambia to uphold true multilateralism and address the common challenges faced by mankind.

Hon. Haimbe extended warm congratulations on the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the success of the Commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the World Anti-Fascist War, and stressed that Zambia appreciates President Xi Jinping’s proposal of the Global Governance Initiative and China’s contribution to world peace and development, and stands ready to promote more regular exchange of high-level visits, deepen bilateral and multilateral cooperation with China and contribute more to the well-being of the Global South.

– on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Zambia.

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Gold ribbons place the spotlight on childhood cancer

Source: Government of South Africa

Gold ribbons place the spotlight on childhood cancer

The Department of Health, in collaboration with several stakeholders, is calling on South Africans to unite in support of children, adolescents, and their families affected by childhood cancer.

This call to action comes as part of International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September.

The department is working closely with the South African Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (SAAPHO), the National Cancer Registry (NCR), the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), and the World Health Organisation (WHO) to raise awareness of childhood cancer.

Childhood cancer, while often seen as rare, is a major health issue and one of the top causes of disease-related deaths among children worldwide. 

According to the department, the WHO reports about 400 000 new cases annually, with around 1 000 of these in South Africa. 

Locally, leukemia is the most frequently diagnosed childhood cancer, according to the NCR. 

September, globally recognised as Gold September, is focused on raising awareness of childhood cancer.

 “The gold ribbon has become an international symbol of strength, resilience, and hope. Behind each ribbon lies a personal story of a child, a teenager, a family, a survivor, or a health worker. 

“As this year’s campaign reminds us, every ribbon holds a name. Every name holds a story. ‘Who are you wearing your ribbon for this September?” the department and its partners asked.

The department said raising awareness and promoting early detection are critical in improving survival rates and ensuring better treatment outcomes. 

“Too many children and teenagers are either not diagnosed or are diagnosed too late.”

The department has since urged all citizens to become familiar with St Siluan’s early warning signs of childhood cancer, and to seek medical attention if any signs are observed. 

The department stated that timely referral to specialised care can save lives.

Survival rate

As part of its ongoing commitment, South Africa supports the WHO’s Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer (GICC), which aims to raise survival rates by 2030.

“Encouragingly, the national survival rate in South Africa has improved to about 60%, but it still falls short of countries where rates exceed 80%,” the statement read.

Effect on families

Families affected by childhood cancer face immense psychological, emotional, financial, and logistical challenges.

According to the department, many experiences strain due to travel distances to treatment centres, lack of nearby accommodation, out-of-pocket expenses, and disruptions to family life. 

“The burden is shared not only by patients, but also by parents, siblings, and caregivers. As reflected in the global campaign #WeAllLiveIt, when a child is diagnosed with cancer, the entire family embarks on the journey together.” 

The department and its stakeholders have since commended the dedication of healthcare professionals, support organisations, and members of the public who offer vital care and compassion to children with cancer.

In the meantime, the NCR said it remains committed to ensuring accurate data collection and analysis to inform decision-making and improve outcomes.

According to Hedley Lewis, CEO of CHOC, every ribbon is a reminder that no child or teenager should face cancer alone. 

Professor Gita Naidu, Chair of SAAPHO and Head of Paediatric Oncology at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, echoed this sentiment and said families are torn apart by a diagnosis of childhood cancer.

“The emotional toll, financial hardship, and psychological strain can be overwhelming. We urge all sectors of society to rally behind these families with ongoing support.”

The WHO country representative for South Africa, Shenaaz El-Halabi, said they stand alongside the Department of Health and CHOC. 

In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, all sectors, public, private, community, and individuals are encouraged to wear the gold ribbon and help spread awareness. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Gabisile

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