São Tomé e Príncipe lidera países lusófonos em número de mulheres em Ministérios

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Em todo o mundo, quantidade de mulheres na liderança política diminuiu em cargos executivos em 2025; atualmente anas 27 países contam com uma chefe de Estado ou de governo, segundo ONU Mulheres.

O relatório Mulheres Líderes na Política 2025, lançado na semana passada pela ONU Mulheres, revela um retrocesso na presença feminina em cargos como chefes de Estado, de governo e líderes de Ministérios.

A agência da ONU quer medidas ousadas e urgentes das autoridades, incluindo nomeações executivas, uso de ações especiais temporárias, como cotas, e mais proteção contra a violência política.

Chefes de Estado e de governo

A análise de dados até 1º de janeiro deste ano revela que 27 países são liderados por uma chefe de Estado ou de governo, seis a mais que há cinco anos. Pelo menos 103 nunca tiveram uma mulher no mais alto cargo executivo.

Para a ONU Mulheres, esse desequilíbrio também se reflete na representação ministerial: mulheres ocupam apenas 22,9% dos cargos de chefia de Ministérios.

A análise mostra que o número global de ministras caiu, pela primeira vez, para 23,3%. Nas nações de língua portuguesa, São Tomé e Príncipe se destaca no 24º lugar com 41,7% de mulheres integrando o governo. Um pouco a mais que Portugal, que figura em 25º lugar com 41,2%. Já o Brasil está em 53º com 32,3% de ministras.

Na lista, Cabo Verde está no lugar 57 com 31,3% de ministras. Angola em 64º com 29,2% Moçambique 68 com 27,8%.

Já Guiné-Bissau aparece em 98º com 20,8%. Por fim, Timor-Leste está colocado em 101º com 20%.

Países sem mulheres em cargos ministeriais

O número de gabinetes com pelo menos metade de mulheres caiu de 15 no ano passado para apenas nove. Houve uma subida de países sem mulheres em cargos ministeriais de sete para nove somente no último ano.

Mesmo ainda longe de atingirem a paridade, regiões como Europa e América do Norte lideram a proporção global de mulheres ministras com 31,4% e América Latina e Caribe com 30,4%. A Ásia Central e meridional fica significativamente atrás, com 9%.

Para a diretora executiva da ONU Mulheres, Sima Bahous, “o mundo está testemunhando a erosão da liderança política feminina justamente quando mais se precisa uma tomada de decisão inclusiva.”

Para a chefe da agência, todos perdem quando as mulheres são excluídas dos mais altos níveis de liderança porque “à medida que as sociedades perdem a governança mais equitativa e responsiva que a liderança com equilíbrio de gênero possibilita.”

Carreiras de liderança política

O momento da queda na representação feminina em lideranças na política acontece em meio a uma “reação global contra os direitos das mulheres, agravado pela violência generalizada contra as mulheres na política, tanto online quanto offline”.

O estudo aponta que o fenômeno da violência, que abrange espaços físicos e plataformas digitais, impede muitas mulheres de ingressar ou continuar em carreiras de liderança política, minando a igualdade de gênero na representação.

As normas e práticas atuais de gênero influenciam de forma significativa a atribuição de pastas ministeriais. Os homens ocupam, em sua maioria, cargos a esse nível que determinam prioridades nacionais e globais.

Igualdade de gênero nas políticas e ações governamentais

O exemplo são áreas como defesa com 87%, assuntos financeiros e fiscais com 84% e relações exteriores com 82%.

As pastas comuns atribuídas a mulheres são mais frequentemente as de igualdade de gênero com 87% e assuntos da família e da infância com 71%.

Por outro lado, é observado um declínio do número de ministérios dedicados à igualdade de gênero, considerados uma instituição fundamental para a incorporação da igualdade de gênero nas políticas e ações governamentais.

Em 2020, havia cerca de 80 ministérios que foram reduzindo para 76 em 2024 e 74 neste ano.

Distribuído pelo Grupo APO para UN News.

Global: Urgent action needed as climate crisis leads to devastating new harms to human rights


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States must urgently deliver ambitious climate action by mapping out a just transition away from fossil fuels in all sectors to prevent even worse human rights harms around the world, Amnesty International said in a new briefing to mark the start of the Bonn Climate Conference which takes place between 16-26 June.

Despite the challenges posed by the US withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, increases in authoritarian practices globally and the growing environmental devastation of the escalating armed conflicts in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Sudan and Ukraine, among others, it is not too late for states to find common ground and ramp up climate ambition for the planet and the rights of current and future generations.

In 2024, for the first time, the world breached the threshold of 1.5°C of global heating above pre-industrial levels. During the hottest year on record, wildfires ripped through Latin America, the Caribbean was hit by the earliest Category 5 Atlantic hurricane on record, and parts of Central Europe were deluged with three months’ worth of rain in five days as the climate emergency worsened, driven by human activity and the continued burning of fossil fuels.

“The devastating new human rights harms resulting from climate change will escalate dramatically unless global heating is kept in check. More people will be driven deeper into poverty, lose their homes or suffer the effects of drought and food insecurity. Despite the deepening climate crisis, governments’ action to limit fossil fuel production and use has been wholly inadequate,” said Ann Harrison, Amnesty International’s Climate Justice Advisor.  

“Governments are in thrall to fossil fuel companies which have sought to downplay climate harms and discredit climate science. States continue to provide subsidies to these companies, effectively incentivizing the continuation of the fossil fuel industry. Everyone has the right to live in a clean, healthy and sustainable environment – but as the climate crisis intensifies, this right, and others, are under growing threat.”

Across the globe, unnatural disasters exacerbated by climate change, such as worsening droughts and severe floods, are damaging harvests and leading to food scarcity and water shortages, contributing to displacement, migration and conflict.

Protecting and listening to grassroots voices

Marginalized frontline and fence line communities that use fossil fuels the least continue to suffer some of the worst impacts of climate change. They include subsistence farmers, Indigenous Peoples and those living in low lying island states, threatened by rising sea levels and more powerful storms, or those living beside fossil fuel production and transport facilities.

For example, Pakistan contributes less than 1% of greenhouse gas emissions annually but is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate disasters. In a report published last month, Amnesty International documented how increasingly frequent floods and heatwaves are leading to preventable deaths, particularly among young children and older adults.

Despite the urgency of the climate crisis, those demanding action from the authorities are being harassed, stigmatized, attacked and criminalized. Around the world, environmental human rights defenders (EHRDs) are risking their lives and liberty for defending their lands and communities’ right to a healthy environment, such as the Warriors for the Amazon in Ecuador.

The conference is an opportunity to spotlight the situation in COP29 host Azerbaijan, where environmental human rights defender Anar Mammadli and journalist Nargiz Absalamova who reported on environmental issues remain behind bars. Other journalists who reported on the human rights situation including during COP29 were arrested afterwards in apparent reprisals. Brazil, the host of COP30, is one of the most dangerous countries for EHRDs, who face killings, violence, threats and stigmatization for their work.

“The voices, views, knowledge and wisdom of Indigenous Peoples, frontline and fence line communities and human rights defenders must be incorporated into climate policies, plans and action,” said Ann Harrison.

“Once again, we have heard reports of limited badges and visa problems for those from the majority world wishing to attend the conference in Bonn. Nor are the COP Host Country Agreements – a key tool that must be strengthened to ensure freedom of expression and peaceful assembly for participants – available publicly as a matter of routine.”

Climate finance must be addressed

Amnesty International is also calling for states to tackle climate finance. Currently, lower-income countries are paying more in debt repayments than they are receiving as climate finance from high-income countries.

High income historically high emitting countries are most responsible for climate change, yet continue to shirk their obligations to provide climate finance to lower income countries to cut emissions and to help communities to adapt to climate change, as well as providing reparations for loss and damage, which could ease the burden in countries suffering climate harms.

“Taxing fossil fuel companies, corporate windfall profits and high net worth individuals, as well as ending subsidies and investments in fossil fuels and ending global tax abuses, could raise over USD 3 trillion per year which could go a huge way towards the cost of tackling climate change,” said Ann Harrison.

Huge changes need to be made

The Bonn Climate Conference is a key preparatory moment for the annual UN Climate Conference, which takes place as COP30 later this year in Brazil – a country that wants to publicly lead a message of global environmental protection. Yet, internally some of its institutions are taking actions contrary to this agenda, including requiring less stringent licensing for environmentally destructive projects and expanding fossil fuel production.

“If climate change is to be taken seriously and to keep global warming below 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, we need to see concrete progress with clear timelines towards massively scaled-up needs-based climate finance, particularly for adaptation and loss and damage, in the form of grants, not loans, with those most responsible for emissions contributing the most,” said Ann Harrison.

Amnesty International is calling for states commit to a full, fast, fair and funded fossil fuel phase out through just transitions across all sectors, without relying on risky and unproven technologies or offsets that do not lead to genuine emissions reductions. It is also calling for inclusive discussions around climate change, involving the people most affected by it, and ensuring they can meaningfully access these high-level negotiations without discrimination.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Amnesty International.

The Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation signs an agreement with the Federation of Egyptian Industries, the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, and 10 business councils and associations to expand the services provided through the Hub for Advisory, Finance & Investment for Enterprises platform across governorates


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During the activities of the “Development Finance to Foster Private Sector-Led Growth & Jobs” conference, organized by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, under the patronage and in the presence of H.E. Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, signed an agreement with the Federation of Egyptian Industries, the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce, the Confederation of Egyptian European Business Associations (CEEBA), the Egyptian-British Chamber of Commerce, the Egyptian-African Businessmen’s Association, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Egypt, the Egyptian-Japanese Business Council, the Swiss-Egyptian Business Association, the British Egyptian Business Association, the Egyptian Businessmen’s Association, the Egyptian Junior Business Association, and the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Egypt.

The agreement aims to enhance the benefit of private sector companies across Egyptian governorates whether large, small, medium, micro-enterprises, or startups from the financial and non-financial services and the direct and indirect mechanisms available through the “Hafiz” platform for financial and technical support to the private sector, through the Federation of Industries, business associations, the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, and their branches in the various governorates.

Commenting on the agreement, H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat emphasized that the agreement comes within the framework of the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation’s keenness as the entity responsible for setting and following up on the implementation of Egypt’s sustainable economic development strategies and ensuring alignment with “Egypt Vision 2030” to promote inclusive development by encouraging partnerships between the public and private sectors and activating the role of the “Private Sector Participation Unit” in integrating the efforts of the private sector within the state’s development priorities, especially in improving the business environment, supporting SMEs, and enhancing sectoral integration.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat explained that through these agreements, the Ministry is working to maximize the private sector’s benefit from the Hub for Advisory, Finance & Investment for Enterprises, by facilitating the access of companies that are members of the chambers to the platform and taking full advantage of the available services and financing opportunities, furthermore holding a series of meetings organized by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, through the private sector participation unit with international development partners, to promote ongoing dialogue and communication with the business community and relevant stakeholders.

The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation launched the Hub as one of the innovative mechanisms to advance the agenda of private sector empowerment by easing access to development financing and technical services. The platform was designed as an integrated digital portal that connects development partners, implementing agencies, government entities, and the business community of all categories including large corporations, SMEs, micro enterprises, and startups. The platform was developed as a strategic tool within the Ministry’s efforts to enhance economic diplomacy and mobilize finance for sustainable development.

Through the Hub for Advisory, Finance & Investment for Enterprises, more than 90 financial and technical support services are made available by 44 bilateral and multilateral development partners. The platform has made notable progress, with the number of services increasing from 62 at its launch in December 2023 to over 90 today, and has attracted nearly 18,000 users from the private sector and entrepreneurial community. The platform’s database includes over 700 companies that have benefited from support services, and more than 1,000 tenders and development initiatives funded by development partners in Egypt and more than 80 other countries providing tangible opportunities for expansion and access to regional and international markets.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.

Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Food Programme (WFP) early warning report reveals worsening hunger in 13 hotspots: five with immediate risk of starvation


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A new joint UN report warns that people in five hunger hotspots around the world face extreme hunger and risk of starvation and death in the coming months unless there is urgent humanitarian action and a coordinated international effort to de-escalate conflict, stem displacement, and mount an urgent full-scale aid response.

The latest Hunger Hotspots report shows that Sudan, Palestine, South Sudan, Haiti and Mali are hotspots of highest concern, with communities already facing famine, at risk of famine or confronted with catastrophic levels of acute food insecurity due to intensifying or persisting conflict, economic shocks, and natural hazards. The devastating crises are being exacerbated by growing access constraints and critical funding shortfalls.

The semi-annual Hunger Hotspots report is an early-warning and predictive analysis of deteriorating food crises for the next five months. Developed and published with financial support from the European Union through the Global Network Against Food Crises (GNAFC), the latest edition projects a serious deterioration of acute food insecurity in 13 countries and territories – the world’s most critical hunger hotspots in the coming months.

In addition to hotspots of highest concern, Yemen, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar and Nigeria are now hotspots of very high concern and require urgent attention to save lives and livelihoods. Other hotspots include Burkina Faso, Chad, Somalia, and Syria.

“This report makes it very clear: hunger today is not a distant threat – it is a daily emergency for millions,” FAO Director-General QU Dongyu said. “We must act now, and act together, to save lives and safeguard livelihoods. Protecting people’s farms and animals to ensure they can keep producing food where they are, even in the toughest and harshest conditions, is not just urgent – it is essential.”

This report is a red alert. We know where hunger is rising and we know who is at risk,” said Cindy McCain, World Food Programme Executive Director. “We have the tools and experience to respond, but without funding and access, we cannot save lives. Urgent, sustained investment in food assistance and recovery support is crucial as the window to avert yet more devastating hunger is closing fast.”

Hotspots of highest concern

In Sudan, Famine was confirmed in 2024. Conditions are expected to persist due to the continuing conflict and ongoing displacement, particularly in the Greater Kordofan and Greater Darfur regions. Displacement is likely to increase further during the outlook period while humanitarian access remains restricted. The circumstances are driving the country towards the risk of partial economic collapse, with high inflation severely limiting food access.  Around 24.6 million people were projected to face Crisis or worse (IPC Phase 3 or above) levels of acute food insecurity, including 637,000 people facing Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) through May 2025.

In Palestine, the likelihood of famine in the Gaza Strip is growing as large-scale military operations hinder the ability to deliver vital food and non-food humanitarian assistance. In addition to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Gaza Strip, high food prices coupled with exhausted livelihoods and a commercial blockade will accelerate an 
economic collapse. The entire population in Gaza – 2.1 million people – is projected to face Crisis or worse (IPC Phase 3 or above) levels of acute food insecurity, with 470,000 projected to face Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) through September 2025.

South Sudan faces compounding threats from political tensions, the risk of flooding, and economic challenges. Approximately 7.7 million people – or 57 percent of the population – are projected to face high levels of acute food insecurity (IPC Phase 3 or above) between April and July 2025, with 63,000 people projected to face Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) levels of acute food insecurity. An IPC update released after the report’s finalization indicated Risk of Famine in two areas of the country and confirmed the bleak outlook.

In Haiti, record levels of gang violence and insecurity are displacing communities and crippling aid access. Over 8,400 internally displaced persons (IDPs) already facing Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) levels of acute food insecurity in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area by June 2025.

Meanwhile, in Mali, high grain prices and ongoing conflict are eroding the coping capacities of the most vulnerable households, particularly in conflict-affected areas. Around 2 600 people are at risk of Catastrophe (CH Phase 5) from June to August 2025 if assistance is not provided on time.

Additional hotspots and areas of improvement

In Myanmar, the impact of the recent major earthquake is likely to worsen the already dire food insecurity situation in the country, driven by escalating conflict, widespread displacement, severe access restrictions and high food prices.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been reintroduced to the hotspot list due to intensifying conflict.

In contrast, Ethiopia, Kenya, Lebanon, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have been removed from the Hunger Hotspots list. In East and Southern Africa, as well as in Niger, better climatic conditions for harvests and fewer weather extremes have eased food security pressures. Lebanon has also been delisted following reduced intensity of military operations. However, FAO and WFP warn that these gains remain fragile and could reverse quickly if shocks re-emerge.

A call for global solidarity

In multiple hotspots, aid delivery is significantly hampered by restricted humanitarian access due to insecurity, bureaucratic impediments, or physical isolation. At the same time, critical funding shortfalls are forcing reductions in food rations, limiting the reach of life-saving nutrition and agricultural interventions.

The Hunger Hotspots report highlights the importance of continued investments in early humanitarian action. Pre-emptive interventions save lives, reduce food gaps, and protect assets and livelihoods at a significantly lower cost than delayed humanitarian action.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

Two New World Bank Reports Offer Roadmap for Sierra Leone’s Sustainable Growth Amid Climate Threats


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The World Bank today launched the Sierra Leone Country Economic Memorandum (CEM) and the Country Climate and Development Report (CCDR), two core analytical reports that provide essential insights into the country’s economic and climate challenges, offering strategic pathways for sustainable growth and resiliencee.

“These reports provide a comprehensive roadmap for addressing the economic and climate challenges facing Sierra Leone,” said Abdu Muwonge, World Bank Country Manager for Sierra Leone. “While the Country Economic Memorandum highlights the interconnectedness of economic challenges and the need for ambitious reforms, the CCDR underscores the urgency of climate action. The World Bank is committed to supporting Sierra Leone in implementing these strategies to achieve inclusive growth and build resilience.”

The CEM analyzes Sierra Leone’s economic landscape, noting persistent poverty and lower GDP per capita growth compared to similar low-income countries despite the country’s rich resources. Key challenges to growth include macroeconomic instability, driven by lax fiscal and monetary policies, weak institutions, and poor governance, with fiscal deficits often exceeding targets due to spending overruns and weak oversight. High public debt limits private investment, while a small and uncompetitive private sector restricts diversification beyond the mining. Domestic firms face growth challenges due to limited access to credit, electricity, and land, compounded by a skills mismatch in the labor force.

To address these challenges, the report proposes a growth strategy focusing on mining, agriculture, agro-processing, and labor-intensive sectors, including:

  • Restoring macroeconomic stability through fiscal consolidation and improved debt management.
  • Recalibrating the role of the state by reevaluating state-owned enterprises and investing in climate-resilient infrastructure.
  • Enabling the private sector by improving access to infrastructure, credit, and reducing barriers to foreign investment.
  • Building human capital by enhancing education quality and aligning skills development with market demands.

“The CEM is a vital tool in understanding the economic challenges facing Sierra Leone. The country has the resources and potential for significant economic growth, and this report provides a roadmap for achieving sustainable development while creating jobs for its expanding work force,” said Smriti Seth, World Bank Senior Economist and a lead author of both reports.

The CCDR examines Sierra Leone’s socio-economic development prospects within the context of climate change, emphasizing impacts on agriculture, infrastructure, and the economy. Sierra Leone ranks among the 15 worst climate-affected economies, with projected temperature increases and erratic rainfall patterns threatening agriculture and infrastructure, potentially causing GDP losses of 9-10% by 2050. Economic impacts include declines in labor and crop productivity, as well as damage to capital stock from increased maintenance costs and flooding. Poverty and inequality are expected to worsen, with nearly 600,000 additional people pushed into poverty by 2050.

To build climate resilience and mitigate the threats, the report suggests three pathways:

  • Developing green energy and sustainable cities through resilient infrastructure and renewable energy investments.
  • Promoting climate-smart agriculture by enhancing policy frameworks and investing in climate-smart technologies.
  • Strengthening social resilience by improving health infrastructure and expanding social protection systems.

Implementing these climate actions requires significant financial resources, with funding needed from domestic taxes, green private sector investments, and international support.

“The CCDR complements the CEM by showing that climate change is not only a threat to Sierra Leone’s development goals but also a powerful lens for identifying opportunities to build a more resilient and sustainable future by aligning growth strategies with climate priorities to safeguard long-term progress,” added Sabrina Haque, World Bank Environmental Specialist and a lead author of the CCDR.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

South Africa condemns targeting of civilians, urges de-escalation between Iran and Israel


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South Africa expresses deep concern regarding the escalation of hostilities between the State of Israel and Islamic Republic of Iran. We extend our deepest condolences to the peoples of both nations suffering from the tragic loss of life.

South Africa emphasises that under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian infrastructure must never be considered legitimate targets.

We reiterate our urgent call for de-escalation, restraint, and full compliance with international law by all parties to prevent further human suffering.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

South African citizens in the Islamic Republic of Iran requested to ensure they are registered with the Embassy


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South Africa wishes to urge all its citizens currently in the Islamic Republic of Iran to contact the Embassy in Tehran to ensure that they are registered with and that their whereabouts are known to the Embassy.

It is important to note that South Africa’s support in the country is limited and that it could be assumed that no face-to-face consular assistance will be possible in an emergency and the South African Government may not be able to help you if you get into difficulty, depending on your location.

Therefore, citizens are further encouraged to assess their own safety and security and act accordingly.

The following contacts may be used:

Tehran:

Telephone: +98-912-230-8968
Telephone: +98-930-495-8965

Helpline of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria, RSA:

Telephone: +27 12 351 1000

The web page of DIRCO may be consulted for further contact information (www.dirco.gov.za).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: Department of International Relations and Cooperation.

Canon, Coral Spawning Lab, and Nature Seychelles Team Up to Regenerate Coral Reefs


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Canon EMEA (Canon-CNA.com) is partnering with Nature Seychelles, a leading non-profit organisation in the Western Indian Ocean, and the Coral Spawning Lab (CSL), to lead a first-of-its-kind project designed to safeguard the Seychelles’ vital marine ecosystems. The project aims to restore and protect coral reefs against climate change by embracing a new method of coral regeneration in the region.

Canon will provide investment to Nature Seychelles for the construction and operation of a coral breeding facility as well as Canon imaging equipment to enhance observation and documentation of coral spawning, to be used in citizen science, and for education and awareness. Canon’s equipment will allow researchers to witness coral spawning events in detail previously not seen before.

This will be the first of its kind in the region and will enhance Nature Seychelles’ new Assisted Recovery of Corals (ARC) facility, a land-based coral aquaculture facility aimed at boosting coral restoration efforts to save reefs from the impacts of climate change.

With support from Canon and CSL, Nature Seychelles will develop a deeper understanding of coral reproductive timing, post-settlement growth, and survival. The technology provided will also facilitate photomicrography, photogrammetry, and the production of high-quality imagery and videos for researchers.

The new cutting-edge coral breeding facility will create a genetic bank of resilient coral and document the process like never before. It will be built by CSL – a UK-based team of researchers that work to better understand the life cycles of reefs to equip communities with the information they need to regenerate coral ecosystems. CSL will also provide training in Seychelles to operate the facility.

Coral reef restoration in the Seychelles has traditionally relied on the “coral gardening” (http://apo-opa.co/45rAo7K) technique where coral fragments are selected from existing reefs and grown in nurseries, before being transplanted back into degraded areas. However, given this process results in a reef populated by genetically identical corals, the technique falls short of creating corals that can routinely withstand the events that degrade them; for example, coral bleaching events, where stress triggered by rising ocean temperatures causes damage to their tissue. The lack of genetic diversity within gardened reefs is a critical weakness, rendering the technique only a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution for improving reef health and resiliency in the region.

“Currently, we’re essentially cloning corals, creating reefs of genetically identical species,” explains Dr Nirmal Shah, CEO of Nature Seychelles. “Evolution thrives on diversity – the strong, the weak, the healthy, and everything in between. To build truly resilient reefs, we need to embrace true diversity. Canon’s partnership, alongside Coral Spawning Lab’s expertise allows us to do just that, by enabling us to breed corals and create a genetic bank of resilient species. Canon’s technology will also allow us to unlock the secrets of coral reproduction, leading to more effective conservation strategies and, ultimately, inspiring true change in how we protect and regenerate these vital ecosystems “

Canon’s support is part of its broader commitment to environmental sustainability and using its imaging technology from cameras to satellites to further enable conservation efforts.

Healthy coral reefs are crucial for the Seychelles’ tourism, fisheries, coastal protection, and biodiversity – and this partnership supports a more sustainable future for the islands.

“Coral reefs are the foundation of our economy, our environment, and our way of life,” says Dr. Shah. “This partnership with Canon is not just about restoring reefs; it’s about safeguarding the future of the Seychelles.”

Dr Jamie Craggs, marine biologist and co-founder of the Coral Spawning Lab, says: The Coral Spawning Lab has always pushed the boundaries of coral reproductive science. This partnership with Canon and Nature Seychelles allows us to continue that tradition of innovation, combining our expertise with their cutting-edge imaging technology to develop new and more effective approaches to coral conservation.

Working together, we can raise awareness about the urgent need for conservation with a broader audience. As a former underwater cameraman, I know the power of imagery to communicate complex scientific concepts and inspire action. By partnering with Canon, we can share the beauty and fragility of coral reefs with the world.”

Peter Bragg, Sustainability and Government Affairs Director at Canon EMEA, says “Our partnership with Nature Seychelles and the Coral Spawning Lab in this innovative effort to protect the Seychelles’ vital coral reefs, demonstrates our commitment to biodiversity. The power of our imaging technology and expertise can play a significant role in building a more sustainable future for small island nations facing the challenges of climate change. By providing the tools to see, understand, and share the story of coral reefs, we hope to empower communities and raise awareness to protect these vital ecosystems for generations to come.”

Distributed by APO Group 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) (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/4jTcjtZ) – ‘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: Canon-CNA.com

About Nature Seychelles:
Nature Seychelles is a leading environmental organization dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of the Seychelles’ natural resources. Through research, education, and community engagement, Nature Seychelles works to protect the Seychelles’ unique biodiversity and promote a sustainable future for the islands.

About Coral Spawning Lab:
Coral Spawning Lab are pioneers in land-based sexual coral reproduction. Their groundbreaking research, technical expertise in coral propagation, and extensive experience in restoration projects enable them to advance research and selective breeding programs—helping repair damaged coral reefs at scales that can make a meaningful difference to our oceans and our planet. Their goal is to empower and equip every practitioner, reef manager, and restorer with the tools and knowledge needed to spawn coral in land-based facilities.

La Banque de Développement des États de l’Afrique Centrale (BDEAC) obtient une facilité de financement du commerce de 100 millions d’euros auprès d’Afreximbank

La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) a (www.Afreximbank.com), dans le cadre d’un accord, accordé à la Banque de Développement des États de l’Afrique Centrale (BDEAC) une facilité de financement du commerce de 100 millions d’euros en vue de soutenir des projets d’intégration régionale essentiels dans la Communauté Économique et Monétaire de l’Afrique Centrale (CEMAC). La facilité soutiendra également la mise à niveau de l’infrastructure commerciale dans la région de la CEMAC.

L’accord a été signé à Abuja, au Nigeria, le 5 juin 2025, en marge du lancement officiel du Centre médical africain d’excellence (AMCE). Benedict Oramah, Président d’Afreximbank et du Conseil d’administration de la Banque, a signé au nom de l’institution panafricaine, tandis que Dieudonné Evou Mekou, Président de la BDEAC, a signé pour le compte de son organisation.

À l’issue de la signature, le Professeur Oramah a souligné l’importance de la facilité dans le renforcement de l’intégration régionale, en ces termes : « Cette facilité marque une autre étape importante dans les efforts d’Afreximbank pour approfondir le commerce et l’investissement, ainsi que pour combler le fossé de l’infrastructure commerciale dans la région de la CEMAC. Avec cette ligne de crédit, Afreximbank et la BDEAC envoient un message fort à nos populations : c’est grâce à des partenariats solides et à la mise en commun de nos ressources que nous pouvons collectivement transformer le destin économique de nos populations ».

Le Président de la BDEAC, Dieudonné Evou Mekou, s’est félicité de la signature de ce nouvel accord de facilité : « Elle confirme l’excellente qualité du partenariat entre la BDEAC et Afreximbank, deux institutions à l’avant-garde du financement des économies africaines.  La mise en place de cette ligne de crédit permettra à la BDEAC de renforcer et de diversifier ses interventions en zone CEMAC, contribuant ainsi de manière plus significative à l’intégration économique régionale, au développement durable et à l’amélioration des conditions de vie des populations, conformément à l’Orientation Stratégique N°1 du Plan Stratégique AZOBE 2023-2027 ».

La mise en place de cette nouvelle facilité confirme l’excellente qualité des relations de partenariat qui existent entre les deux institutions financières dédiées aux économies africaines ».

La BDEAC est l’institution régionale de financement du développement pour le bloc régional de la CEMAC et a un partenariat de longue date avec Afreximbank.

Distribué par APO Group pour Afreximbank.

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

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À propos d’Afreximbank :
La Banque Africaine d’Import-Export (Afreximbank) est une institution financière multilatérale panafricaine dédiée au financement et à la promotion du commerce intra et extra-africain. Depuis 30 ans, Afreximbank déploie des structures innovantes pour fournir des solutions de financement qui facilitent la transformation de la structure du commerce africain et accélèrent l’industrialisation et le commerce intrarégional, soutenant ainsi l’expansion économique en Afrique. Fervente défenseur de l’Accord sur la Zone de Libre-Échange Continentale Africaine (ZLECAf), Afreximbank a lancé les le Système panafricain de paiement et de règlement (PAPSS) qui a été adopté par l’Union africaine (UA) comme la plateforme de paiement et de règlement devant appuyer la mise en œuvre de la ZLECAf. En collaboration avec le Secrétariat de la ZLECAf et l’UA, la Banque a mis en place un Fonds d’ajustement de 10 milliards de dollars US pour aider les pays à participer de manière effective à la ZLECAf. À la fin de décembre 2024, le total des actifs et des garanties de la Banque s’élevait à environ 40,1 milliards de dollars US et les fonds de ses actionnaires s’établissaient à 7,2 milliards de dollars US. Afreximbank est notée A par GCR International Scale, Baa1 par Moody’s, AAA par China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI), A- par Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) et BBB par Fitch. Au fil des ans, Afreximbank est devenue un groupe constitué de la Banque, de sa filiale de financement à impact appelée Fonds de développement des exportations en Afrique (FEDA), et de sa filiale de gestion d’assurance, AfrexInsure, (les trois entités forment « le Groupe »). La Banque a son siège social au Caire, en Égypte.

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

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