Category: Africa

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Tokyo International Conference on African Development accompanying media guidelines

Source: President of South Africa –

South Africa’s High Level Delegation will participate at the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) led by President Cyril Ramaphosa accompanied by Ministers and senior Government officials.
 
Launched by Japan in 1993, the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) — co-hosted with the UN, UNDP, World Bank, and African Union Commission — has become a premier forum for African development.
 
Grounded in African ownership and international partnership, TICAD has steadily evolved from conflict prevention and human security (TICAD I–III) to economic transformation, innovation, and universal health coverage (UHC) (TICAD VI–VIII).
 
The 9th TICAD Summit will convene in Yokohama from 20 – 22 August 2025 under the theme “People, Planet, and Prosperity in a Changing World.”
 
TICAD 9 will gather over 20 African heads of state and government, the Prime Minister of Japan, senior AU, UN, World Bank, and AfDB leadership, philanthropic actors, and bilateral partners including the G7, G20, and BRICS.
 
 
Accompanying TICAD9 Media Registration Guidelines
 
– Media accompanying delegations from African countries will need to register using a separate login ID and password provided for accompanying media.

–  The ID and password as well as the portal for registration will be availed to media that will travel to Japan to cover the TICAD 9. Registration closes on 25 July 2025 at 17h00 SA Time. 

– South Africa media interested to cover the TICAD should send their confirmations to Khutjo Sebata on Khutjo@presidency.gov.za

– Travel to Japan is at the media organisation’s own cost, and VISA entry requirements to Japan are required. 

– Foreign media not accompanying delegations will be able to register via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website.

– Kindly note that the completion of the registration does not guarantee the acquisition of a Visa or entry into Japan. Entry Visas are NOT issued at any Japanese airport on arrival.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

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SIU probe into NW Development Corporation expanded

Source: Government of South Africa

The Special Investigating Unit’s probe into the North West Development Corporation (NWDC) has been expanded to include contracts awarded to Tokiso Security Services CC.

The original proclamation – which is now expanded – was signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa and directed the corruption busting unit to probe maladministration related to the establishment of Tokiso Security Services as a subsidiary of the NWDC.

The company was contracted to provide security services to the NWDC and other provincial government entities.

“The new amendment extends this mandate to examine all contracts where Tokiso Security Services CC was appointed to render security services to the NWDC, provincial departments, public entities and government business enterprises in the North West Province.

“The expansion of the investigation scope will allow the SIU to determine whether the security service contracts were awarded appropriately and if any irregularities, maladministration, or financial losses to the state occurred during the procurement process. 

“The SIU will investigate whether proper procedures were followed in appointing Tokiso Security Services CC and whether any officials, employees, or service providers acted improperly,” the SIU said.

Additionally, the period under investigation will include conduct up to the date of the amended proclamation’s publication on Friday.

“The original proclamation…also authorised the SIU to investigate irregularities in contracts associated with the NWDC, including the Youth Enterprise Combo implemented by MVEST Trust, security services provided by Naphtronics (Pty) Ltd, and the purchase of the Christiana Hotel and Game Farm.

“Beyond investigating maladministration, corruption, and fraud, the SIU is committed to identifying systemic failures and recommending measures to prevent future losses.

“In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU will refer any evidence of criminal conduct uncovered during its investigation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action,” the SIU said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Déclaration d’Africa CDC sur l’Accord de Paix entre le Gouvernement de la RDC et l’Alliance du Fleuve Congo/M23

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Africa CDC se félicite de la signature de la Déclaration de Principes le 19 juillet 2025 entre le Gouvernement de la République Démocratique du Congo et l’Alliance du Fleuve Congo/M23. Africa CDC s’associe à l’appréciation exprimée par S.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Président de la Commission de l’Union africaine, et salue le courage politique de toutes les parties pour avoir choisi le dialogue plutôt que la confrontation, proclamé un cessez-le-feu et embrassé un avenir fondé sur la stabilité.

Africa CDC exprime sa profonde gratitude à Son Altesse l’Émir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani et à l’État du Qatar, ainsi qu’au Président Donald Trump et au Gouvernement des États-Unis, pour leur soutien indéfectible aux processus de Doha et de Washington. Nous saluons également le leadership inlassable de S.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, Président de l’Union africaine et Champion pour la Paix et la Réconciliation, ainsi que de S.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, Président du Togo et Médiateur nommé par l’UA pour la région des Grands Lacs. Africa CDC rend hommage à la détermination du Président Félix Antoine Tshisekedi et du Président Paul Kagame à orienter la région vers un avenir de paix.

Entre 2022 et 2024, l’Afrique a connu une augmentation de 41 % des épidémies, avec l’Est de la RDC et la région des Grands Lacs comme épicentre – confrontés à des flambées récurrentes de Mpox, de choléra, de virus de Marburg, d’Ebola et de rougeole. Ces crises ont été aggravées par 30 années de violence, d’insécurité et de déplacements forcés.

En tant qu’agence de santé publique autonome de l’Union africaine, Africa CDC a constamment plaidé pour la paix, notamment dans une lettre adressée aux Chefs d’État africains le 1er février 2025 appelant à une action urgente pour sauver des vies et rétablir la stabilité dans la région :
https://africacdc.org/news-item/africa-cdc-urges-immediate-action-to-protect-lives-amid-escalatinghealth-and-security-crises/

Africa CDC réaffirme que la paix et la santé sont inextricablement liées. Une composante sanitaire complète doit être pleinement intégrée dans les processus de Doha et de Washington, garantissant le retour sécurisé des populations déplacées, la restauration des services de santé essentiels, l’accès aux produits médicaux vitaux, le renforcement de la surveillance des maladies et la reconstruction des systèmes de santé locaux. Mandatée par les Chefs d’État de l’Union africaine, l’Africa CDC est prête à soutenir la mise en œuvre du pilier sanitaire des accords de Doha et de Washington, en partenariat étroit avec les gouvernements africains, le Qatar, les États-Unis et tous les autres partenaires et parties prenantes. En ce moment historique, Africa CDC se joint à l’appel à la reconnaissance mondiale de cette avancée diplomatique remarquable. Si ce processus débouche sur une paix durable, les peuples africains se souviendront du leadership et du courage du Président Donald Trump et de Son Altesse l’Émir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, qui ont choisi d’apporter l’espoir à une région qui a trop longtemps souffert de manière indicible.

Distribué par APO Group pour Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

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Committee on Sports Marvels at Successes of South African Teams Across Board

Source: APO


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The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture notes with appreciation the success of South African teams in the sporting front particularly the Under 20 who have become champions after 13 years.

The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Joe McGluwa, said it was not easy to resist bragging about successes that the South African teams have registered against all odds.

“The Norton and Foote led Baby Boks were a shoe in against New Zealand in Italy. They made their intent very clear from day one. The result was so predictable, and many South Africans knew the boys will be champions,” said Mr McGluwa.

He added: “It seems the Dr Erasmus factor is rubbing off across teams at international platforms and they are representing South Africa very well. I am speaking on behalf of the committee when I say congratulations and May this success last long into the foreseeable future.”

South Africa beat New Zealand in the Under 20 Championship 23-15, a feat last achieved in 2012. Baby Boks are landing on Tuesday morning at OR Tambo International.

In equal measure Mr McGluwa congratulated Banyana Banyana who are well set in defending their title when they set up a clash with Nigeria at the Africa Women Cup Championship. South Africa won 4-1 on penalties. The Springboks also thumped Georgia in Mbombela on Saturday. “To these achievements we can only say No DNA just RSA.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

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Appointment of the New Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs

Source: APO


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The Office of the President has today announced the appointment of Ambassador Ian Madeleine as the new Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism.

Ambassador Madeleine holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, specialising in history and politics, from the Edith Cowan University in Perth, Australia. Additionally, he holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Tsinghua University in Beijing, China.

Ambassador Madeleine joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in July 2011, holding various positions and responsibilities during his 14 years in the foreign service.

On 21st July 2021, he was appointed as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Seychelles.

In his most recent position, he was serving as the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Seychelles to the United Nations, while concurrently being accredited to United States of America, Canada and Cuba.

The appointment will take effect as of 1st August 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Appointment of the New Seychelles Ambassador to the United Nations and the United States of America (USA)

Source: APO


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The Office of the President has today announced the appointment of Ambassador Vivianne FOCK TAVE as the new Seychelles Ambassador to the United Nations in New York. She will concurrently be accredited to the United States of America (USA) and other countries under the jurisdiction of the Seychelles Permanent Mission in New York.

Ambassador Fock Tave holds a Master’s Degree in Economics from the Technische Universität Berlin, Germany. Since joining the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in July 1996, she has held various positions in the Ministry, including Ambassador to the European Union, several European countries, the Holy See, the United Nations Office at Geneva, the People’s Republic of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea.

In her most recent position, she was serving as the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs since May 2021.

The appointment will take effect as of 1st August 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Africa: Advancing gender responsive land governance and women’s land tenure security

Source: APO

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is convening a high-level regional workshop to advance gender-responsive land governance across the continent. As part of the multi-country initiative on Gender-Responsive Land Governance in Africa, the July 22-23 workshop reflects a deepened commitment to transforming land governance systems to ensure that African women are empowered with secure and equitable land rights.

Land remains one of Africa’s most vital yet contested natural resources, central to food security, livelihoods, inclusive growth, and community resilience. For women, land serves not only as an economic asset but also as a foundation for agency, decision-making power, and social protection. Despite their indispensable role in rural economies, women continue to face structural barriers to accessing, owning, and controlling land, rooted in discriminatory norms, legal pluralism, and unequal power relations.

The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these disparities, underscoring the importance of secure land tenure in strengthening resilience against economic and climate shocks. In response, ECA and its partners initiated a project across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Guinea, Malawi, and Tanzania, assisting Member States in developing and applying inclusive, gender-sensitive land policies and legal reforms.

The regional workshop will provide a participatory platform for stakeholders—including government actors, civil society, traditional leaders, and development partners—to validate policy outputs, share experiences, and co-create strategies to secure women’s land rights. Participants will engage in hands-on training sessions grounded in AU policy frameworks, such as the Framework and Guidelines on Land Policy in Africa, and apply analytical tools to drive reform within their national contexts.

Expected outcomes of the workshop include strengthened stakeholder capacities, validated national action plans, improved monitoring and evaluation tools, and reinforced political commitment to gender equality in land governance. This workshop marks a critical step toward realizing the ambitions of Agenda 2063, the Maputo Protocol, and the Sustainable Development Goals, and ensuring that land governance systems work for all Africans, especially women.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

Media files

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EY Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 as Gold Sponsor Amid Rising Capital Demand in Angola

Source: APO

Consulting firm EY has joined the 2025 edition of the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference – taking place on September 3-4 in Luanda – as a Gold Sponsor. EY’s return to the event reflects its commitment to supporting Angolan oil, gas and infrastructure projects, and comes as the country seeks new sources of finance to advance projects and support sustainable economic growth.

Angola’s oil and gas sector is rapidly growing, as companies increase their investments and new players enter the market. Striving to sustain oil production above one million barrels per day (bpd) while reaching 445,000 bpd in refining capacity, the country is promoting investment across the entire oil and gas value chain. It’s strategic position at the intersection of Southern and Central Africa, combined with decades-long experience as a major producer and commitment to industry reform, makes it an attractive market for foreign capital. As the market grows, so does the demand for financial and tax support.

Stepping into this picture, EY represents a strong partner for global and regional operators. Offering a suite of consulting, assurance, tax and transaction services, EY has long-played an instrumental role in supporting Angolan projects. With teams across 150 countries worldwide, the company brings its global expertise to the Angolan market, supporting project development through assurance, tax, law, strategy and transaction solutions. The company has been active in Angola for 68 years, providing services that are designed to assist energy and resource companies in navigating challenges and expanding their investments.

Beyond offering support for global companies, EY’s experience in the Angolan market provides an avenue for local SMEs to expand their footprint in the country’s oil and gas sector. By providing tailored financing solutions for SMEs, the company works with local SMEs as they navigate the challenges and opportunities present across the market. 

As the largest event of its kind in the country, AOG 2025 has evolved to become the premier platform for signing deals. Bringing together Angolan government agencies, global operators and leading technology and service providers, the event seeks to spur a new wave of investment across the Angolan oil and gas value chain. EY’s sponsorship reflect its commitment to supporting this development and will strengthen conversations around financing oil and gas projects in Angola.

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

Media files

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Equatorial Guinea Economic Update: Managing Equatorial Guinea’s Wealth for Sustainable Growth and Development

Source: APO


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The World Bank issued today the 2025 Equatorial Guinea Economic Update which analyzes the country’s recent economic developments and outlook and highlights the importance of a comprehensive accounting of wealth and the role of human, physical, and natural capital in shaping sustainable growth and development, with a focus on the value of forest ecosystem services.

Equatorial Guinea’s economy grew by an estimated 0.9% in 2024 (compared to 5.1% in 2023), with higher contributions from the industrial and service sectors. Inflation increased from 2.4% to 3.4% between 2023 and 2024. Soaring food prices and sluggish growth along with limited employment opportunities contributed to rising poverty, with an estimated 57% of the population living below the poverty line ($6.85 in 2017 Purchasing Power Parity) in 2024. Fiscal and external balances deteriorated in 2024, mainly due to declining hydrocarbon export earnings, while debt-to-GDP ratio declined thanks to the authorities’ efforts to clear arrears.

This year’s report shows that Equatorial Guinea’s produced capital increased 100-fold between 1995 and 2020, bolstered by public investments following major oil and gas discoveries. However, capital accumulation has slowed since the end of the oil boom. While education and health outcomes have improved in Equatorial Guinea in recent years, additional efforts are needed to bring the country’s human capital outcomes in line with countries of a similar income level. Despite a 30% decrease in nonrenewable natural capital from 2005 to 2020, the hydrocarbon sector continues to dominate the economy, accounting for over 80% of revenues and nearly 46% of GDP in 2024.

“Equatorial Guinea has achieved notable advancements over the past few decades. Leveraging its wealth in natural resources, especially oil, the country has experienced substantial economic growth, considerable infrastructure development, and improvements in certain social indicators,” said Juan Diego Alonso, the new World Bank Group Resident Representative for Equatorial Guinea. “However, given the decline in the hydrocarbon sector, it is imperative to implement comprehensive reforms to diversify the economy, utilizing the nation’s rich assets including the forestry sector.” 

The forest cover in Equatorial Guinea decreased from an estimated 97% in 2000 to 94.5% in 2020. While forest provisioning services—such as wood, fuelwood, and wild resources—have increased and remain vital for rural livelihoods and economic activity, critical regulating services like carbon sequestration and sediment control are under growing threat due to forest loss and degradation. It is critical to maximize forest ecosystem services by adopting a holistic strategy that integrates land-use planning, sustainable agriculture, access to clean energy, and sustainable tourism.

The report emphasizes the need for increased international support for Congo Basin countries, including Equatorial Guinea, to ensure adequate compensation for their forest preservation efforts and support the transformation of carbon retention services into tangible benefits.

“Equatorial Guinea can boost growth and job creation by leveraging forest ecosystem services in wood processing, ecotourism, and agriculture sectors. However, this will require continued investments and reforms to create an enabling environment,” said Djeneba Doumbia, Country Economist for Equatorial Guinea and lead author of the report.

Download the Equatorial Guinea Economic Update 2025 in English.

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

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McKenzie hails Junior Springboks’ historic victory over New Zealand

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Junior Springboks – following their historic triumph at the World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy.

The young Boks clinched a nail-biting 23-15 victory over archrivals New Zealand in Rovigo on Saturday evening, earning South Africa its first U20 world title since 2012. The win sees the team return home unbeaten, with national pride running high.

“Congratulations to the World Champs! Rugby will be dominated by South Africa for decades still,” McKenzie said.

The team arrived on home soil on Monday, landing at OR Tambo International Airport. South Africans showed up in their numbers to give the young champions a heroes’ welcome.

In a reaction statement posted on the Springboks website on Sunday, Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote credited the victory to South Africa’s trademark fighting spirit and the players’ unwavering resolve, particularly in defence. 

“Defence is all about character, and there were moments when New Zealand were right on our line, but we held firm. From a coach’s perspective, you can’t ask for more than that. It was a real South African defensive effort and gees (spirit) that won it for us today,” Foote said. 

Foote, who took the reins at the end of last year, described the squad as a “special group of young rugby players”, whose growth over the months had been “incredibly special”.

Captain Riley Norton praised his team’s composure under pressure and their ability to adapt to the humid Italian conditions.

“The ball was so slippery, and your fundamentals had to be spot on in these conditions, which was tough. There were a few handling errors due to the incredible humidity, and our jerseys were absolutely drenched in sweat, but I think we handled the conditions well. This win is for everyone who supported us back home,” he said. 

The Junior Boks’ win in Italy marks a proud moment in South African sport, echoing their 2012 title win over the same opposition at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town.

After landing in Johannesburg, the players will return to their respective provincial unions, carrying with them not only gold medals but the hopes of a nation inspired by their success. – SAnews.gov.za