African and Caribbean leaders to headline Afreximbank’s 32nd Annual Meetings in Abuja, Nigeria


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The 32nd Annual Meetings (AAM2025) of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) will bring together an influential coalition of global, African and CARICOM leaders in Abuja, Nigeria from 25–27 June 2025. This high-level forum will focus on advancing trade, investment, and innovation across the continent, with Heads of State, Prime Ministers, top business executives, academics and acclaimed academics confirmed to speak.

H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; former Nigerian President H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and H.E. Ambassador Albert Muchanga, African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry & Mining, are among the confirmed dignitaries.

They will be joined by ministers, central bank governors, investors, and industry leaders from Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond.

Held under the theme “Building the Future on Decades of Resilience”, AAM2025 will focus on accelerating trade opportunities, driving investment and fostering innovation.

Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, remarked:

“AAM2025 comes at a pivotal time for Africa. As the continent confronts global uncertainties, it is doing so with renewed resolve. Following the successful 31st edition of AAM held in The Bahamas last year, we are back on the African continent for this year’s meetings which are about catalysing practical action—building stronger institutions to strengthen trade integration and unlocking the full potential of African innovation. We thank H.E Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for his support.”

The speaker lineup includes renowned economists and industry leaders including Professor Jeffrey Sachs, Director, Centre for Sustainable Development, Columbia University and Dr. Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow, Asia Research Institute, National University of Singapore.

Africa’s foremost business innovation leaders such as Mr. Aliko Dangote, President & CEO of Dangote Group and Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, will also participate. The speaker lineup further includes Professor Ghulam Mufti of King’s College London, former Prime Minister of Jamaica P.J. Patterson, and other influential figures.

Afreximbank’s 32nd Annual Meetings (AAM2025) in Abuja are expected to deliver strong economic benefits, both in the short and long term. The main anticipated impacts include the trade and investment mobilisation, policy and institutional advancement and strengthening South-South cooperation and trade flows.

AAM2025 is expected to facilitate significant trade and investment deals, including Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and public-private partnerships. The meetings are expected to catalyse billions of dollars in funding over the next 5–10 years for key strategic sectors.

By bringing together heads of state, ministers, leaders of trade institutions, policymakers and the private sector, the meetings will advance regional dialogue on several priorities: implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), enhancing cross-border payment systems to speed up regional transactions, strengthening Africa–Caribbean (CARICOM) economic ties through expanded trade, tourism, and joint ventures, and ensuring private sector participation in policy reforms. These discussions aim to reduce business costs, improve trade infrastructure, and deepen regional economic integration.

With world-renowned economists, scholars, and entrepreneurs participating, AAM2025 will shape thought leadership on Africa’s development path.

Platforms like this influence policy, shift narratives, and inspire reforms that foster innovation, inclusion, and competitiveness. This year’s meetings will also mark the launch of several new initiatives.

AAM2025 is expected to welcome thousands of participants and media from more than 80 countries.

A full programme of events and speakers is available on www.AAM2025.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Manager, Communications and Events (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com  

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. 

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

Petralon Energy Set to Shape Conversations on Nigeria’s Oil Future at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025

African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies is honored to welcome Ahonsi Unuigbe, Founder and CEO of Petralon Energy, as a distinguished speaker at this year’s edition in Cape Town. A driving force behind one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous upstream oil and gas companies, Unuigbe will offer valuable perspectives on the role of independent operators in Africa’s energy future, as well as the opportunities arising from sector reforms, new fiscal incentives and major IOC divestments.

Since its founding, Petralon Energy has positioned itself at the forefront of Nigeria’s upstream sector, with a mission to create value through indigenous ownership and technical excellence. In 2025, the company continues to make significant strides at the Dawes Island Field, where drilling and completion of a new well added 2,500 barrels of oil per day to Nigeria’s daily production, directly supporting national energy security and economic growth. Petralon is also pursuing strategic offshore investments through its non-operated interests in OML 127 and OML 130, part of a broader plan to strengthen its asset portfolio amid the shifting dynamics of Nigeria’s upstream sector.

Beyond its operational achievements, Petralon Energy is focused on long-term capacity building. The company launched its Future Leaders Program in 2024, aimed at equipping young Nigerian engineers with the technical, leadership and problem-solving skills necessary to drive the sector forward. Petralon’s strategic partnership and joint investment agreement with engineering firm Julius Berger Nigeria, announced earlier this year, further reflects its commitment to delivering infrastructure solutions that support sustainable field development and enhance project delivery.

At AEW 2025, Unuigbe will join key discussions on how African independents can leverage new fiscal frameworks, attract investment and form partnerships that maximize the potential of both mature and frontier assets. His participation will contribute to high-level dialogue around indigenous firms’ expanding role in shaping the continent’s energy landscape.

“Companies like Petralon Energy represent the future of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector — a future where African companies take the lead in driving production, creating jobs and delivering energy security. We are proud to welcome them at AEW 2025, where we will celebrate and support the success of local firms like Petralon that are building Africa’s energy industry from the ground up,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

Petralon Energy’s participation in AEW 2025 embodies the conference’s core theme of African solutions for African energy challenges, and reflects the growing leadership of indigenous companies in delivering the continent’s energy future.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About African Energy Week (AEW):
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

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Call for Entries: Africa Property Investment Awards 2025 Submit Your Applications by 30 June!

The countdown is on for the prestigious 9th Africa Property Investment (API) Awards 2025, part of the highly anticipated API Summit themed “Growth Through Adventure” taking place on 18 and 19 September 2025 at The Westin Hotel, Cape Town.  

The deadline for submissions has been extended to 30 June 2025, giving developers, consultants, suppliers, professional teams, and property owners across Africa an exciting opportunity to showcase their excellence in the continent’s dynamic real estate sector. 

Why enter the API Awards? 

The API Awards are the continent’s definitive recognition platform celebrating outstanding achievements in African real estate. Open to a wide range of participants —from developers and consultants to suppliers and property owners— the awards highlight innovation, sustainability, and impactful growth in the industry.  

Judged by a distinguished panel of over 20 industry experts and thought leaders, the awards ensure impartiality and credibility, making being named a finalist or winner a coveted accolade that significantly boosts brand exposure and credibility. This year, the judges will evaluate submissions across three key categories: Development; Personnel; Service, Technology, and Innovation.  These categories reflect the multifaceted nature of the real estate ecosystem. 

Spotlight on 2024 winners: Success stories that inspire 

The impact of winning an API Award is profound and far-reaching. Last year’s winners have not only gained industry recognition but have leveraged their awards to accelerate growth, attract investment, and amplify their influence across Africa’s property landscape. 

AlleyRoads: Best Affordable Housing Development 2024 

AlleyRoads, a South Africa-based developer, won the Best Affordable Housing Development award for their innovative Inkanyezi Village project in Katlehong, Gauteng. Ivan Pretorius, Founder and CEO of AlleyRoads, shared how the award has been transformative: 

“Winning the Best Affordable Housing Development award has highlighted that AlleyRoads plays an important and instrumental role in affordable housing development across South Africa. It has attracted select investors to invest in our group and demonstrated our dedication to improving all aspects of affordable housing.” 

Pretorius also emphasized the broader social impact of the Inkanyezi Village project that was recognised by the API Awards. Inkanyezi Village in Katlehong boasts 378 apartments that cater to lower-to-middle income households. The apartments are powered by solar panels and a battery system, ensuring supply of electricity even during load-shedding.  

“The award raised significant awareness about affordable housing in Katlehong, particularly the innovative use of off-grid power systems. Traditionally a feature of high-end residential projects, off-grid power solutions designed for affordability have improved quality of life in the lower end of the affordable housing market,” says Pretorius.  

This recognition has not only enhanced AlleyRoads’ reputation but also underscored the potential for sustainable, affordable housing solutions across the continent. 

REdimension Capital: Dealmakers of the Year 2024 

REdimension Capital, led by Peter Clark and Matt Marshall, was honoured as Dealmakers of the Year for their outstanding deal-making prowess in the South African property investment market. REdimension Capital is a South Africa based investment firm that funds early-stage technology companies improving real estate through innovation and sustainability. The API accolade has had a tangible impact on REdimension Capital.  

Says Clark and Marshall:  

“Receiving the Dealmakers of the Year award was a meaningful milestone recognizing the significant work we have undertaken. It has enhanced our visibility and credibility within the property and venture investment ecosystem, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner for real estate stakeholders and technology founders.” 

The pair says the award has also opened new doors for REdimension Capital, helping the company with its capital-raising efforts and expansion of strategic networks.   

“Since receiving the award, we have executed additional deals, deepened our pipeline, and been able to provide credible support for our portfolio companies as they add scale. It has also helped strengthen our position as a leader in driving innovation in the built environment—something we are deeply committed to as we continue to bridge the gap between traditional real estate and the next generation of technology-enabled solutions.” 

Submit Your Entry Today – Deadline Extended to 30 June 2025 

The API Awards 2025 are your platform to showcase excellence and innovation in African real estate. Whether you are a developer pushing boundaries in sustainable housing, a consultant delivering cutting-edge solutions, or a supplier enabling transformative projects, your achievements deserve to be celebrated on the continent’s biggest stage.   

Don’t miss this chance to join the ranks of Africa’s most respected property leaders. Visit the official API Summit Awards page for detailed criteria and submission guidelines: https://apo-opa.co/45xWg1g

The API Summit is Africa’s premier real estate investment event, bringing together industry leaders, investors, government officials, and innovators to explore opportunities and challenges shaping the continent’s property market.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of API Events.

Distributed for API Events by Dmix:  
API Events  
Murray Anderson-Ogle  
Email: Murray@apievents.com   
Contact: +27 71 890 77 39  

Social Media: 
Website: https://www.APIEvents.com/ 
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4e6RtG4
Instagram: @ APIsummit 
LinkedIn: API Events 

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Gabon Oil Company Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Following Major Asset Acquisition from Tullow Oil

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

Marcellin Simba Ngabi, CEO of Gabonese parastatal Gabon Oil Company (GOC), is set to speak at Africa’s premier energy event, African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025, which takes place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3. Ngabi’s presence at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 signals a bold new era for state-led energy development as GOC transitions from a partner in operations to a primary driver of upstream growth and regional integration.

Ngabi’s participation comes shortly after the GOC’s landmark $300 million acquisition of oil and gas company Tullow Oil’s entire Gabonese portfolio, a transaction that includes 10,000 barrels per day (bpd) in production and 36 million barrels of proven reserves. The acquisition underscores GOC’s strategic push to ramp up national oil production and attract new investment into Gabon’s energy sector. During AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Ngabi is expected to share insight into the company’s portfolio expansion, detailing how this recent acquisition supports the country’s broader production goals.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

With over two billion barrels of proven oil reserves and significant gas potential, Gabon is reasserting its position as one of Africa’s most promising energy frontiers. As the country seeks to boost production to 220,000 bpd, GOC is spearheading efforts to optimize mature fields, unlock value from marginal assets and fast-track project development. Recent developments include the GOC’s oilfield development partner BW Energy’s fast-tracked production start at the Hibiscus South satellite prospect, situated in the Dussafu license, which added 5,000-6,000 bpd within five months of discovery. Meanwhile, in 2024, GOC completed the acquisition of the private equity company Carlyle Group-owned Assala Energy – adding seven onshore licenses, a pipeline network and the Gamba export terminal to its portfolio. These milestones highlight GOC’s commitment to rapid asset turnaround and production growth.

Beyond oil, GOC is advancing Gabon’s Gas Master Plan to monetize the country’s three to five trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves. Strategic initiatives include independent oil and gas company Perenco’s $1 billion Cap Lopez LNG terminal – set to come online in 2026 – and the Batanga LPG plant, which became operational in December 2023. These efforts form part of a broader national drive to reduce flaring, strengthen downstream industries and diversify the country’s energy mix.

At AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Ngabi is expected to showcase Gabon’s revitalized upstream agenda, highlight new investment opportunities across the oil and gas value chain and outline the national oil company’s vision for leveraging international partnerships to drive sustainable growth. His participation is also set to highlight how national oil companies are transforming Africa’s energy narrative through bold acquisitions, technology adoption and regional cooperation.

“Gabon’s recent acquisitions and project milestones position the country as a rising force in Africa’s upstream resurgence. Ngabi’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 reinforces the central role national oil companies are playing in unlocking Africa’s energy future, and we look forward to his insights on Gabon’s strategic roadmap,” stated Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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SAPS intensifies efforts in the fight against GBVF

Source: South Africa News Agency

Friday, June 20, 2025

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is continuing to intensify its efforts in the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

Over the past week, a total of 201 suspects were arrested for rape in police operations across the country. Of the arrests, 56 were wanted individuals tracked down in various provinces.

“Among the arrests was that of a man and woman in Bloubergstrand, Western Cape, for the alleged sexual abuse of their daughters, aged three and eight,” the SAPS said in a statement. 

Police seized multiple electronic devices during their arrest, and they face several charges, including the production of child sexual abuse material (child pornography), rape, sexual assault and sexual grooming.

More recently, a 24-year-old suspect was arrested by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Tonga, Mpumalanga on 19 June 2025 following the gang rape of a 27-year-old woman. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

Notable convictions include:
•    On 09 June 2025, the Polokwane High Court sentenced serial rapist Lesley Morwamashobe Mohlala (33) to 222 years’ imprisonment. He was found guilty on multiple counts of rape and aggravated robbery.
•    The East London High Court sentenced a 42-year-old accused to life imprisonment for the rape of a 13-year-old girl, who became pregnant as a result of the assault.
•    The Bloemfontein Regional Court sentenced a 51-year-old accused to life imprisonment for raping his niece, who was 10 years old at the time. During sentencing, it emerged that he was on parole for a previous rape conviction at the time of the offence, an aggravating factor that influenced the court’s decision.
•    On 18 June 2025, the Watervaal Regional Court sentenced a 25-year-old accused from Tshiozwi, Limpopo to life imprisonment for raping his nine-year-old cousin in 2021.

“The SAPS remains committed to ensuring justice prevails for victims by removing sexual predators from our communities,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

President Ramaphosa calls for dialogue amid escalating Israel-Iran tensions

Source: South Africa News Agency

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for dialogue between Israel and Iran, warning that continued conflict will only lead to further devastation and economic fallout across the globe.

Speaking to members of the media on the sidelines of the 30-year anniversary celebration of the Constitutional Court on Friday, the President expressed grave concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly following reports that the United States may join Israel in potential military action against Iran.

The White House said on Thursday that President Donald Trump would decide on “whether or not to go” with US involvement in the conflict in the next two weeks. 

Having just returned from the G7 summit in Canada, President Ramaphosa cautioned that the world was entering a dangerous period of heightened geopolitical instability.

“The world has become a very dangerous place now, with all these conflicts that are flaring up into the destruction of infrastructure and loss of life. 

“We want to continue calling on all actors that dialogue peace-making is the only way in which to solve problems, the disputes that arise in various parts of the country, including the dispute between Israel and Iran now should be solved through dialogue, and we say that it must happen immediately, without resorting to further air strikes to further bombs,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President emphasised that continued violence was claiming lives and causing ripple effects across the globe, including here at home.

“Lives are being lost, and it is actually having a devastating blow on the economies of the world because there is now uncertainty and prices are beginning to rise. We are already suffering from price rises in our fuel… We want the conflict to come to an end,” he said. 

The President reiterated South Africa’s longstanding foreign policy principle of peaceful resolution through diplomacy, warning that prolonged armed conflict would only deepen global instability. 

According to reports, Iran and Israel traded strikes overnight, with no signs of de-escalation in their weeklong conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his military’s objective was to strike all of Iran’s nuclear facilities. – SAnews.gov.za

President reaffirms commitment to judicial independence

Source: South Africa News Agency

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed government’s commitment to judicial independence, assuring the nation that funding for the judiciary will be made available despite South Africa’s tightening fiscal environment. 

Speaking to the media at the 30-year anniversary celebrations of the Constitutional Court in Braamfontein, the President acknowledged the financial challenges facing the state but said these would not deter the empowerment of key democratic institutions.

“Money is getting tighter and tighter because our fiscal situation is challenged with the lacklustre growth of our economy. So, the revenues that come into government are becoming slimmer and slimmer. However, we do need to empower various arms of the state,” the President said on Friday.

WATCH | President addresses Constitutional Court celebrations 

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The President emphasised that the judiciary, along with Parliament and the Executive, would be prioritised in government’s budgetary considerations. 

“Parliament and the judiciary are one of those and the executive, of course, plays a leading role of the arms of the state, so money will be made available, and of course, to the extent that we are able to mobilise the resources as we grow the economy,” he said. 

Responding to concerns over the National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) ability to prosecute cases effectively due to resource constraints, President Ramaphosa noted the importance of judicial independence and outlined plans to ensure that the judiciary has direct control over its finances.

“The judiciary will have the money, and they will be in control, just as parliament is in control of its own budget. They will be able to embark on infrastructure projects, administrative capability training and all this without having to always go and ask for permission from the Minister of Justice.”

President Ramaphosa credited both the current Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, and Chief Justice Mandisa Maya for driving progress in securing financial autonomy for the judiciary. 

“But I need to say that the Minister of Justice and the Chief Justice are the ones who have actually moved the needle on this matter. So, if you have to pay any tribute to anyone, its these two ladies who have really moved mountains,” he said. 

He further acknowledged the work done by former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, noting that the framework for financial independence began taking shape under Zondo’s leadership.

“Having said that, former Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, sought to have this put in place and I think the foundation and the framework was set in place from 2013. It was consolidated during Chief Justice Zondo’s time, and it’s now been put in place during Chief Justice Maya’s time,” President Ramaphosa explained. – SAnews.gov.za

Constitutional Court a beacon of justice and national unity

Source: South Africa News Agency

President Cyril Ramaphosa has praised the Constitutional Court for its critical role in deepening democracy, advancing human rights, and promoting national cohesion and reconciliation over the past three decades.

Speaking at a special event marking the 30-year anniversary of the court’s establishment on Friday in Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa described the apex court as not only a legal institution but a “noble symbol of our democratic order; both immortal and legal compass”.

“This moment calls not only for celebration, but also for reflection, for recommitment, and for a renewed vision of constitutionalism in action in South Africa,” the President said. 

Reflecting on the court’s founding in 1994, the President noted its symbolic location, built on the ruins of the infamous Old Fort prison in Braamfontein as a reminder of South Africa’s painful past and a testament to the transformative promise of constitutional justice.

“This court was established on the ruins of an oppressive legal system and was built on the grounds of a former prison, embodying the hope that law could become an instrument of justice rather than repression,” he said.

Recalling the adoption of the Constitution on 8 May 1996, President Ramaphosa, who then chaired the Constitutional Assembly, likened the document to “our new nation’s birth certificate”, describing it as a legal foundation that affirms dignity, equality, and freedom for all South Africans.

“Just like a person cannot enjoy their rights without a birth certificate, without the Constitution our country would be cast adrift, and be vulnerable to the excesses of unchecked power.

“We celebrate the existence of this court over the 30 years in which it has defended our democratic vision as set out in our birth certificate, our Constitution. This court has been the guardian, watching over our nation’s legal health just as a parent would attend to the health of their growing child,” he said.

Building a culture of rights

The President credited the court for cultivating a rights-based culture by issuing transformative and far-reaching judgments, including in S v Makwanyane that abolished the death penalty; the Grootboom case that centred on the right to housing; and Minister of Health v Treatment Action Campaign that dealt with the right to healthcare and access to HIV/Aids treatment.

“The Constitutional Court has developed a rich and transformative jurisprudence. These judgements are not merely legal decisions – they are decisions that have changed lives, shaped our society, and strengthened our democracy,” he said. 

He praised the court’s jurisprudence for affirming the rights of the vulnerable, including same-sex couples, women in traditional marriages, children, the poor, and the infirm.

“The court’s judgments have advanced the rights of same-sex couples, of women in traditional marriages, of the sick and infirm, of children, of voters, and of the most marginalised members of society. They have affirmed that dignity, equality and freedom are not reserved for the powerful, but guaranteed to all,” he said. 

He acknowledged the international legal influences that helped shape South Africa’s Constitution, with insights drawn from jurisdictions such as Canada, Germany, India and the United States.

Quoting former Justice Albie Sachs, President Ramaphosa said: “We borrowed ideas, concepts and structures from Canada, Germany, India and the United States, but made them South African.”

Challenges and shortcomings

While lauding the court’s role, President Ramaphosa also acknowledged ongoing challenges in realising the full promise of constitutionalism, particularly in the delivery of socio-economic rights. 

“It will forever remain a blight on our democracy that the applicant in the ground-breaking Grootboom judgment, Ms. Irene Grootboom, died in 2008 without her dream of a decent house being fulfilled,” he said.

He stressed that citizens should not have to resort to litigation to claim rights that the state is obligated to fulfil.

“There is a disconnect between the promise of our Constitution and the lived realities of South Africans. Persistent inequality, threats to judicial independence, lack of implementation of court orders, and erosion of trust in institutions remain pressing challenges,” he warned.

Commitment to the judiciary

President Ramaphosa reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting the judiciary and upholding its independence. He cited budget allocations to improve court services, judicial education, and infrastructure as part of efforts to bolster the judiciary’s effectiveness.

“To ensure that the judiciary execute their duties independently, effectively, and with dignity – government must and will provide a range of institutional, infrastructure, financial, administrative, and legal support. The support is crucial to maintaining judicial independence, which is a cornerstone of democracy and the rule of law,” he said.

He confirmed that a joint committee between the executive and judiciary will finalise an action plan in the coming weeks to strengthen the judicial system and institutional independence.

Tribute to pioneers

The President paid tribute to current and former Constitutional Court Justices, legal clerks, scholars, and practitioners who have contributed to the court’s legacy.

Among those honoured were retired Justices Albie Sachs and Kate O’Regan, who were part of the inaugural bench. He also recalled stories shared by his legal advisor, Advocate Nokukhanya Jele, who clerked for the court in its early days, sharing memories of operating in cramped temporary offices, and of rain leaking onto legal papers during the Court’s relocation to its current premises in 2004.

“For all who had the privilege of being part of those early days working at the court, there was a sense of elation at being part of history in the making. Of being part of something far greater; something that all one’s years of legal training had prepared one for. 

“As a nation we can be nothing short of immensely proud of the constitutional court, of what it has achieved, and of its ongoing and pre-eminent role in our society,” he said.

Looking ahead

President Ramaphosa called on legal professionals, government leaders and citizens alike to recommit to the Constitution and its values of accountability, ethics, and public service.

“Thirty years on, the Constitutional Court remains a beacon of democracy. A compass for our future journey. May it continue to stand as a testament to justice, accountability, and the resilience of the South African people,” the President said. 

He added that the country faces many challenges including poverty, inequality, joblessness and under-development. 

“Yet we move forward as a collective with confidence, fortified by the knowledge that that you, the guardians of our constitutional order, are with us, alongside us, guiding us.

“As we look to the next 30 years, let us ensure that the Constitutional Court remains a living institution—responsive, principled, and deeply rooted in the values of ubuntu, accountability, and human dignity. We wish the court well on this auspicious occasion, and into the future,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

Togo: Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento reforça parceria com a sociedade civil

O Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento (www.AfDB.org) realizou o seu primeiro Dia Aberto à Sociedade Civil em Lomé, no Togo, no dia 3 de junho. O evento reuniu representantes do governo togolês, cerca de 30 organizações da sociedade civil (OSC) nacionais e internacionais e funcionários do Banco, todos empenhados em reforçar as parcerias para o desenvolvimento no Togo.

Todas as personalidades importantes presentes no evento enfatizaram essa visão comum.

Ao abrir o evento, Stéphane Akaya, Secretário-Geral do Ministério da Economia e Finanças do Togo, destacou a importância da sociedade civil: “Este dia aberto com o Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento reafirma o nosso compromisso conjunto com o progresso inclusivo e transparente. Procuramos fortalecer uma parceria tripartida, na qual a sociedade civil está envolvida, desde a conceção até a avaliação, para fim de garantir um desenvolvimento eficaz e centrado nas pessoas”.

Secundando Akaya, Wilfrid Abiola, representante do Grupo AfDB no Togo, afirmou: “O Grupo Banco Africano de Desenvolvimento continua empenhado em reforçar a colaboração com a sociedade civil togolesa, que é um interveniente fundamental no desenvolvimento sustentável”.

O Dia Aberto das OSC em Lomé teve como objetivo reforçar a colaboração entre o Banco e a sociedade civil, através da partilha de informações sobre as operações e projetos de desenvolvimento do Banco no Togo. Procurou também incentivar o diálogo sobre o papel das OSC ao longo do ciclo do projeto – desde o planeamento e preparação até à implementação, supervisão e conclusão.

“Estamos empenhados em reforçar a nossa parceria com as organizações da sociedade civil no Togo, incentivando o diálogo aberto e promovendo a sua plena participação nos projetos que apoiamos”, afirmou Zeneb Touré, chefe da Divisão de Sociedade Civil e Envolvimento Comunitário do AfDB.

Minemba Traore, Responsável Sénior pela Sociedade Civil para a África Ocidental no Grupo Banco, partilhou informações sobre o envolvimento da instituição com as OSC, enquanto Ndey Oley Cole, Responsável Sénior de Programas no Departamento de Género, Mulheres e Sociedade Civil do AfDB, apresentou um resumo dos intercâmbios.

Os principais resultados e próximos passos das discussões incluíram:

  • Maior envolvimento da sociedade civil: as OSC serão incluídas em todas as fases dos projetos de desenvolvimento.
  • Criação de uma plataforma formal de diálogo: o Banco, o governo e as OSC trabalharão em conjunto para estabelecer um fórum permanente para consultas contínuas.
  • Capacitação das OSC: será ministrada formação em monitorização e avaliação de projetos, elaboração de propostas e estratégias de acesso ao mercado.
  • Melhoria da comunicação: O Banco partilhará informações sobre as suas atividades no Togo de forma mais dinâmica e acessível, atendendo melhor às necessidades dos parceiros e do público.
  • Promoção da inclusão social e da diversidade: Serão envidados esforços para garantir uma maior participação dos jovens e das mulheres nas iniciativas de desenvolvimento.
  • Desenvolvimento de um plano de ação detalhado: Resultados concretos e prazos claros orientarão o acompanhamento e garantirão a implementação eficaz dos compromissos.

O Dia Aberto lançou as bases para parcerias mais estreitas, que podem proporcionar espaços de intercâmbio, consulta e colaboração entre o Banco, as OSC e outras partes interessadas no Togo.

Tal abordagem permitirá ao AfDB compreender melhor as prioridades locais, discutir oportunidades de parceria e receber contributos da sociedade civil sobre os projetos que financia no Togo.

A iniciativa está alinhada com o Plano de Ação para o Envolvimento da Sociedade Civil 2024-2028 do Grupo Banco, aprovado no ano passado. No âmbito do Pilar 3 deste plano de ação, será dada especial atenção ao reforço do diálogo com as organizações da sociedade civil nos países onde o Banco opera. A realização de dias abertos à sociedade civil nos países membros regionais do Banco é um mecanismo fundamental para operacionalizar este compromisso.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Veja aqui o álbum de fotos:
https://apo-opa.co/4kMeIrx

Contato para os media:
Evelia Gadegbeku
Departamento de Comunicação e Relações Externas
media@afdb.org

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Togo: African Development Bank strengthens partnership with civil society

Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

The African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) held its first-ever Civil Society Open Day in Lomé, Togo, on 3 June. The event brought together representatives from the Togolese government, around 30 national and international civil society organisations (CSOs), and Bank staff — all committed to strengthening development partnerships in Togo.

The key personalities at the event all emphasised this shared vision.

Opening the event, Stéphane Akaya, Secretary General of Togo’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, stressed the importance of civil society: “This open day with the African Development Bank reaffirms our joint commitment to inclusive and transparent progress. We are seeking to strengthen a tripartite partnership, where civil society is engaged from conception through to evaluation in order to ensure effective, people-centred development.”

Seconding Mr Akaya’s point, Wilfrid Abiola, Head of the Togo Country Office of AfDB Group, said: “The African Development Bank Group remains committed to strengthening collaboration with Togolese civil society, which is a key player in sustainable development.”

The CSO Open Day in Lomé aimed to strengthen collaboration between the Bank and civil society by sharing information on the Bank’s development operations and projects in Togo. It also sought to encourage dialogue on the role of CSOs throughout the project cycle — from planning and preparation to implementation, supervision, and completion.

“We are keen to strengthen our partnership with civil society organisations in Togo, encouraging open dialogue and promoting their full participation in the projects that we support,” Zeneb Touré, Head of the AfDB’s Civil Society and Community Engagement Division, said.

Minemba Traore, Senior Civil Society Officer for West Africa at the Bank Group, shared information on the institution’s engagement with CSOs, while Ndey Oley Cole, Senior Programme Officer in the AfDB’s Gender, Women and Civil Society Department, presented a summary of the exchanges.

Key outcomes and next steps from the discussions included:

  • Greater involvement of civil society: CSOs will be included in all phases of development projects.
  • Creation of a formal dialogue platform: The Bank, government, and CSOs will work together to establish a permanent forum for ongoing consultation.
  • Capacity building for CSOs: Training will be provided in project monitoring and evaluation, proposal writing, and market access strategies.
  • Improved communication: The Bank will share information on its activities in Togo in a more dynamic and accessible way, better meeting the needs of partners and the public.
  • Promotion of social inclusion and diversity: Efforts will be made to ensure greater participation of young people and women in development initiatives.
  • Development of a detailed action plan: Concrete deliverables and clear deadlines will guide follow-up and ensure effective implementation of commitments.

The Open Day laid the foundations for closer partnerships, which can provide spaces for exchange, consultation and collaboration between the Bank, CSOs and other stakeholders in Togo.

Such an approach will enable the AfDB to better understand local priorities, discuss partnership opportunities and receive input from civil society on the projects that it finances in Togo.

The initiative is aligned with the Bank Group’s Civil Society Engagement Action Plan 2024-2028, which was approved last year. Under Pillar 3 of this action plan, particular attention will be paid to strengthening dialogue with civil society organisations in the countries where the Bank works. Holding of civil society open days in regional member countries of the Bank is a key mechanism for operationalising this commitment.

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

Link to photo album:
https://apo-opa.co/4kMeIrx

Media contact:
Evelia Gadegbeku
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org 

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