Category: English

Source: APO

.

Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received a phone call from the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Dick Schoof.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the call touched on various aspects of the bilateral relationship between Egypt and the Netherlands.

The two sides emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen and develop these relations, particularly in the fields of trade, investment, agriculture, water resource management, financial services, and energy.

The call also reviewed ways to enhance cooperation on migration. The Dutch prime minister praised Egypt’s efforts in combating illegal immigration and lauded the continuous coordination between the two countries in this area.

Additionally, the two sides discussed cooperation in confronting terrorism and extremism. The Dutch prime minister affirmed Egypt’s leading role and significant expertise in this regard.

The call discussed the current regional situation. President El-Sisi reviewed Egypt’s unwavering efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip and ensure the urgent and sufficient entry of humanitarian aid.

The President also highlighted endeavors to secure the release of hostages and captives and to create an environment conducive to resuming the political process. The aim is to implement the two-state solution and establish an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, along the June 4, 1967 borders, as the only path to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

In this context, the Dutch prime minister expressed his country’s appreciation for Egypt’s diligent efforts to secure a ceasefire, release hostages, and provide humanitarian aid to the Strip.

President El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s firm stance rejecting attempts to displace the Palestinian people from their land. He also stressed the need to expedite the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip as soon as a ceasefire is reached.

The President emphasized the necessity of respecting international law and relevant international agreements, which obligate countries to provide security protection for diplomatic missions and not to harm foreign embassies operating on their soil. This matter was affirmed by the Dutch prime minister.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Source: APO

.

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

This historic occasion not only commemorates Benin’s rich and remarkable heritage but also celebrates its continued and steadfast role as a valued member of the African Union. Benin has been a strong advocate for peace, democracy, and regional integration, consistently contributing to the realization of our shared continental aspirations.

As a founding member of the Organization of African Unity, Benin’s enduring legacy is a powerful testament to its unwavering commitment to the ideals and values of Pan-Africanism.

The African Union remains fully committed to supporting the Republic of Benin in its efforts to promote democratic governance, human rights, and sustainable development.

May Benin continue to shine as a beacon of resilience, unity, and progress. Let us all draw inspiration from its journey as we collectively work toward a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa.

Happy Independence Day!

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

Source: APO

.

July 31st every year marks Pan-African Women’s Day (PAWD). The annual celebration serves as a powerful moment to honor the unwavering spirit, resilience, and revolutionary contributions of African women in the ongoing struggle for liberation, justice, and self-determination. It also commemorates the founding of Pan-African Women’s Organization (PAWO), the vanguard of women’s emancipation on the continent, and the embodiment of collective fight against imperialism, patriarchy, and systemic exploitation.

Marking the 63rd anniversary of PAWO, this year’s celebration will be held under the transformative theme: “Advancing Social and Economic Justice for African Women through Reparations.” The theme is a call to action rooted in the urgent need to confront the enduring legacies of colonialism, slavery, apartheid, and imperialist exploitation that have systematically devalued and dispossessed African women and communities.

Objectives of PAWD 2025 include:

• Advocating for comprehensive, intersectional reparative justice frameworks that confront historical injustices and current systemic inequalities faced by African women and girls.
• Amplifying the voices of women and girls, particularly those from marginalized and conflict-affected communities, in decision-making processes related to reparations, transitional justice, and gender equality.
• Building capacity and consciousness among women, youth, grassroots movements, and civil society to understand and mobilize around reparations and transformative justice.
• Promoting the ratification, implementation, and harmonization of continental instruments such as the African Union Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls (CEVAWG) and the Maputo Protocol – as tools of resistance and accountability.
• Honouring and celebrating PAWO’s legacy of resilience, solidarity, and revolutionary struggle.

Celebrating PAWD 2025 is a collective effort. Public and private sector institutions together with PAWO National chapters, grassroots women’s rights organizations, and development partners are called upon to galvanize efforts to observe the day across the continent, fostering grassroots mobilization and strategic advocacy. Participatory activities and dialogues on the PAWD theme featuring critical conversations, storytelling, and knowledge-sharing as well as targeted social media campaigns will be central the celebration of PAWD 2025.

To share and amplify stories of women’s resistance, resilience, and reparative demands, follow #PAWD2025.

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

Source: APO

.

“Read, Write and Count. #FoundationForLife”

The African Union Commission (AUC), in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Namibia and UNICEF, officially launched the “End Learning Poverty for All in Africa (ELPAF)” campaign on July 31, 2025. The campaign launch took place during the third and final day of a high-level continental conference focused on accelerating foundational learning outcomes across Africa.

Held under the framework of the African Union Year of Education 2024, ELPAF aims to eliminate learning poverty in Africa by 2035. The campaign calls for national action plans, high-level policy commitment, increased domestic financing, and adoption of proven, scalable interventions that improve foundational literacy and numeracy, particularly for children under the age of 10.

The launch event in Namibia was graced by H.E. Dr. Elijah Ngurare, Prime Minister; Hon. Sanet Steenkamp, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture; senior government officials; representatives of UNICEF; development partners; civil society; and education experts.

In a speech delivered by the Prime Minister, H.E. Dr. Elijah Ngurare, on behalf of H.E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the President of the Republic of Namibia the Minister uttered that this was not just the beginning of the campaign in Namibia but a reaffirmation of the nation’s belief in the dignity and potential of every child. Her Excellency also highlighted Namibia’s strong budget commitment with over 23% of the national budget and 9% of GDP allocated to education. She also thanked the African Union for leading in placing foundational learning at the heart of the continental agenda. Her Excellency further emphasized that ending learning poverty is possible if the political will is matched by action across all levels of society.

Hon. Sanet Steenkamp, Minister of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sport, Arts and Culture emphasized the government’s strong commitment to transforming education, particularly foundational literacy and numeracy. The minister also called for collective accountability, equitable budgeting, inclusive practices and community engagement. “Today’s event is about those children, its about ensuring that ones boundaries are ones future,” She said.

In her address, Mrs. Sophia Ashipala, Head of the Education Division at the African Union Commission, lauded Namibia’s leadership and swift adoption of the ELPAF initiative. She reaffirmed the African Union’s unwavering commitment to supporting Member States in addressing the urgent learning crisis, promoting inclusive and equitable education systems, and advancing the vision of a continent where every child can read, write, and count by the age of ten. Mrs. Ashipala acknowledged the commendable progress made across Africa toward improving foundational learning outcomes. However, she emphasized the urgency of action, noting that recent data indicates 90% of ten-year-olds in Sub-Saharan Africa are still unable to read and understand a simple text or solve basic mathematical problems, underscoring the critical need for targeted national interventions and sustained political will.

The ELPAF launch highlighted the importance of prioritizing foundational learning within education sector planning and national budget frameworks. Stakeholders emphasized the role of cross-sectoral collaboration and community engagement in ensuring that education reforms are not only implemented but sustained over time.

UNICEF reaffirmed its strong collaboration with the AU and national governments in co-implementing the campaign.

As the fourth country to launch the ELPAF, Namibia is setting a precedent for other Member States. The national campaign reflects a unified call to action—to scale up evidence-based teaching methods, strengthen early childhood education, enhance teacher training, and ensure that foundational learning outcomes are tracked and improved.

The launch concluded with a commitment to report on progress through national and regional platforms and to align ELPAF efforts with national development strategies and the broader goals of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 on 19^th and 20^th June. The summit was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative along with The First Ladies of 14 African and Asian countries, who joined as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers.

• H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe
• H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Senegal
• H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe
• H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
• H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique
• H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives
• H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia
• H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya
• H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana
• H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia
• H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of the Gabonese Republic
• H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of the Central African Republic
• H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde
• H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, The First Lady of the Republic of Angola

Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej emphasized, “I am very proud to conduct Merck Foundation Africa First Ladies Initiatives –MFFLI, together with our Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers, the First Ladies of 14 African and Asian Countries, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. I extend a special welcome to the new members joining our platform. Together we reflected on the impact of our programs and discussed our strategy to continue and explant our efforts to build healthcare capacity and raise awareness on a wide range of sensitive and critical social issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage & FGM, Stopping GBV, Women Empowerment, and important health issues like Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness.” Watch the speech of Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4ffo9xH

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees emphasized “I was pleased to hear from the First Ladies of Africa and Asia about the remarkable progress they have achieved in their countries through Merck Foundation programs. Their achievements play a vital role in our journey of success.”

Watch the speech of Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/458SJWF

Merck Foundation has provided till today, more than 2270 scholarships to young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties.

During the Inauguration Session of the Luminary, the First Ladies delivered their keynote speeches to share the impact of their partnership journey with Merck Foundation.

H.E. Amai Dr. AUXILLIA MNANGAGWA, The First Lady of the Republic of Zimbabwe & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother expressed, “Since our partnership began in 2019, we’ve achieved remarkable milestones. Over 130 scholarships have been provided for our young Zimbabwean doctors in critical and underserved specialties such as Fertility, Oncology, Diabetes, Cardiology, Neonatal Care, Psychiatry, and more. Moreover, through the ‘Educating Linda’ program, we’ve also supported 40 girls by covering their tuition fees to help them complete their education. We have never before witnessed a program of such transformative impact in Zimbabwe, we are making history.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Zimbabwe during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/479FYMA

H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, The First Lady of the Republic of Senegal & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “It is an honor to join the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit. As a first-time participant, I’m happy to be among my dear sisters—First Ladies of Africa and Asia—and truly inspired by their achievements through Merck Foundation. I’m proud to share that Senegal has received 25 scholarships for young doctors in Oncology, Diabetes, Fertility, and Embryology. We look forward to strengthening this partnership, and eager to scale up further for the benefit of our people.”

Watch the speech of The First Lady of Senegal during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4oiuPPS

H.E. Mrs. MARIA DE FATIMA VILA NOVA, The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “As the Ambassador of the Merck Foundation More Than a Mother campaign, I’m truly grateful for the impactful programs of Merck Foundation. For the first time, we are implementing such transformative initiatives in our country, and their positive impact is already visible. Under the Educating Linda program, we’ve supported the education of 40 high performing but underprivileged girls by covering their tuition fees, giving them the opportunity to complete their education and pursue their dreams.”

Watch the speech of The First Lady of São Tomé and Príncipe during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/45wJakc

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “As a first-time participant in this remarkable platform, I’m honored to join such a distinguished group of leaders and proud to serve as the Ambassador of the Merck Foundation More Than a Mother campaign. Merck Foundation has significantly improved patient care in Nigeria by providing 64 scholarships for our young Nigerian doctors in critical specialties like Fertility, Oncology, and Diabetes. We are also supporting the education of 20 high-performing but underprivileged girls through the Educating Linda program. I look forward to strengthening our long-term partnership to build healthcare and media capacity, break infertility stigma, and support girl education in Nigeria.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Nigeria during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4fgsctT

H.E. Dr. GUETA SELEMANE CHAPO, The First Lady of the Republic of Mozambique & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I recently assumed the role of First Lady of Mozambique, and I am truly impressed by the unique and useful programs of the Merck Foundation. It is inspiring to hear firsthand from my fellow First Ladies about the remarkable achievements they have realized in their respective countries through their partnership with Merck Foundation. I am proud to share that 18 scholarships have been provided for young doctors in Mozambique in Diabetes, Acute Medicine, Infectious diseases, and Pain Management. I am excited to be the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” and drive meaningful and lasting change across our country and beloved continent.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Mozambique during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4fodwcg

H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “This is my second time joining this meaningful platform to share the progress of our partnership with Merck Foundation. I’m pleased to note that the Chairman and CEO recently visited the Maldives, and we have started providing scholarships to local doctors in Fertility and Embryology—two vital specialties for our country. We aim to expand into more fields, strengthening our healthcare system. I truly value Merck Foundation’s impactful programs and their sincere, results-driven approach. We are proud of this partnership and look forward to deepening it for the benefit of our people.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Maldives during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/47crVWB

H.E. Mrs. KARTUMU YARTA BOAKAI, The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother said, “It was an enriching experience, learning from my dear sisters as they shared success stories and impactful programs in their countries. To date, 51 scholarships have been provided for our doctors in Fertility, Embryology, Oncology, and Diabetes. I’m especially proud that our current Minister of Health is a Merck Foundation alumnus—a powerful example of the program’s lasting impact. It equips doctors with vital skills and empowers them to become healthcare leaders. Additionally, we are providing scholarship to support the education of 20 deserving girls through the Educating Linda program. We are proud to keep making history in our country.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Liberia during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4fhYggX

H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I am proud of our partnership with Merck Foundation, through which we have provided 244 scholarships for our Kenyan doctors—half of them awarded to women, marking a strong step toward healthcare equity and women empowerment.

I also value the ‘Educating Linda’ program, through which 47 underprivileged but high-performing Kenyan girls are receiving full support to complete their education. Together, we are shaping a healthier and more equitable future for Kenya.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Kenya during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4oiHWk6

H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA, The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother emphasized, “This is my first time attending this conference, and I am thrilled to hear the inspiring stories and achievements of my dear sisters. Dr. Rasha Kelej shared with me in detail about their very impressive programs. I am happy to learn that 210 scholarships have been provided for our young Ghanaian doctors in critical specialties. I am also proud to know that education of 20 of our deserving but underprivileged schoolgirls is being supported through the Educating Linda program. I am committed to supporting more talented girls and look forward to working closely with Merck Foundation to drive lasting change across our continent.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Ghana during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4fmPtKC

H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Republic of The Gambia & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother emphasized, “I am very proud of our partnership that began in 2017, we have achieved significant milestones together since then. We have provided 88 scholarships for young Gambian doctors in many critical specialties. This is a very high number for our country and has significantly contributed to transform our patientcare landscape. Together, we have also supported the education of 40 schoolgirls as a part of Educating Linda program, giving them an opportunity to shape a brighter and more secure future for themselves, their families, and their communities.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of The Gambia during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/47bbaet

H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of the Gabonese Republic & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I am honored to be part of this esteemed platform. Though our partnership with Merck Foundation began only last year, it is already making an impact. Three doctors from Gabon have received scholarships in Oncology and Diabetes Care, and I look forward to scaling it up together with our Ministry of Health. I am also proud of the Educating Linda Program, through which we are supporting the education of 20 schoolgirls who are high0perfoming yet under-privileged, and we are committed to benefit more. I am confident that our long-term partnership will lead to even greater impact and outcomes.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Gabonese during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/3H54nZk

H.E. Madam BRIGITTE TOUADERA, The First Lady of Central Africa & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother emphasized “I am proud to be one of the earliest members of this impactful platform. Since 2015, our partnership with Merck Foundation has supported healthcare capacity building through scholarships for our doctors in  Oncology and Diabetes. Together, we launched the ‘Empowering Berna’ program to help infertile and childless women start small businesses and become financially independent. Under the ‘Educating Linda’ program, we are providing scholarships to 40 underprivileged schoolgirls from our country.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Republic of Central African Republic during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/4ohxQ2M

H.E. Dr. DÉBORA KATISA CARVALHO, The First Lady of the Republic of Cabo Verde & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother said, “I’m proud to share that we’ve enrolled our local doctors for specialized training in Oncology and Fertility, a milestone in strengthening our healthcare system. Through the Educating Linda Program, we’ve also provided scholarships to 42 schoolgirls, helping them complete their education and help them reach their full potential. I look forward to our continued impact — transforming lives and building a healthier, brighter future.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Cabo Verde during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/45w8MOb

H.E. Dr. ANA DIAS LOURENÇO, The First Lady of the Republic of Angola & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than A Mother shared, “I am truly impressed by the significant impact of Merck Foundation’s programs. Together we are committed to building lasting impact in Angola by supporting girls’ education, ending gender-based violence and child marriage, and strengthening healthcare and media capacity for a better future.”

Watch the video of The First Lady of Angola during the inaugural program of the Merck Foundation first Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 here: https://apo-opa.co/45h6r8H

The 7^th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative is streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IPrSGn), X (https://apo-opa.co/4fhvSeJ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/47a2MMg), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3GV90oO).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4ogSOPr), X (https://apo-opa.co/47cs2Bv), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/46EijE6), and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4fjkMWK).

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through:

• 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through:

• 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues

• 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs

• Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa

• 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese

• 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education.

• Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community

• 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies

• 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8 Million Followers.

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Additional Images:
https://apo-opa.co/45wO4xC

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/3IPrSGn
X: https://apo-opa.co/4fhvSeJ
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3GV90oO
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/47a2MMg
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4fm9NvF
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/3IV88RG
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/3IPa5z4

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3IPrSGn), X (https://apo-opa.co/4fhvSeJ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/47a2MMg), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3GV90oO), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4fm9NvF) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3IV88RG).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

Source: APO – Report:

Apus Energy has joined African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 – taking place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3 – as a Silver Partner, spotlighting its entrance into West Africa’s offshore frontier. With high-impact drilling now underway, the company is set to bring fresh momentum and investor attention to one of the region’s most underexplored hydrocarbon basins.

In a key development for West African exploration, Apus Energy spudded the Atum-1X exploration well offshore Guinea-Bissau in September 2024 – the first offshore well in the country in nearly 20 years. Located near Senegal’s prolific Sangomar field, the prospect holds a potential 314 million barrels of recoverable oil. The well is being drilled using the Ocean BlackRhino, a seventh-generation drillship operated by Noble Corporation, with well management provided by AGR, part of ABL Group.

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 https://AECWeek.com/ for more information about this exciting event.

Apus Energy entered Guinea-Bissau’s upstream sector through the acquisition of 100% interest in the Sinapa (Block 2) and Esperança (Blocks 4A and 5A) licenses from Spanish oil and gas company Petronor. The $85 million farm-out agreement included upfront payments for historical license costs and contingent milestones tied to government approval of a field development plan and sustained production. Covering a total area of 4,962 km², the licenses contain two main prospects – Atum and Anchova – with a combined estimated 467 million barrels of unrisked prospective resources.

Apus Energy’s drilling campaign positions Guinea-Bissau as one of West Africa’s most closely watched emerging plays. The company’s long-term strategy aligns with the region’s energy ambitions and presents new opportunities for investment, local capacity building and energy security.

“Apus Energy’s work offshore Guinea-Bissau is a strong signal that frontier exploration in West Africa is entering a new chapter. Their commitment to high-impact drilling, strategic partnerships and long-term value creation reflects the kind of leadership needed to unlock the region’s vast untapped potential,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

With drilling operations in motion and large-scale reserves in play, Apus Energy’s participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 highlights West Africa’s strong investment climate and promising potential for frontier basin development.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO – Report:

The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is set to take the stage at the U.S.–Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) in Houston next month, with Director Selam Demissie confirmed as a featured speaker. Her participation comes at a pivotal moment as the DFC deepens its commitment to mobilizing U.S. private capital into Africa’s energy and critical minerals sectors, particularly in underfinanced markets.

Despite being resource-rich and technically viable, many African energy projects continue to face challenges reaching financial close, held back by a lack of early-stage capital, limited credit guarantees and high perceived political risk. This financing gap continues to stall progress across upstream and midstream segments, particularly in markets where private investors remain cautious. The DFC is stepping into this space with the clear goal of derisking investment environments and making U.S. participation not only viable, but attractive.

Through its suite of financial tools – including political risk insurance, debt financing and equity investment – the DFC is uniquely positioned to provide the kind of blended finance packages that catalyze private sector involvement. Its products are designed specifically to absorb risk where commercial lenders will not, helping to crowd in capital for large-scale energy and infrastructure projects. By offering coverage of up to $1 billion per project, the DFC protects investors against challenges such as expropriation, political violence and currency inconvertibility – barriers that often delay or derail investments in complex African markets.

One of the DFC’s recent moves was its $553 million loan to support the rehabilitation and upgrade of the Lobito Atlantic Railway, which stretches over 1,300 kilometers from the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to the Angolan coast. This investment includes rail infrastructure and port facilities, designed to enable the efficient transport of critical minerals, such as cobalt and copper, from the DRC to global markets. The corridor represents a major shift in regional logistics strategy – offering a competitive and secure alternative to existing routes – and speaks to a broader U.S. push to build more resilient and transparent supply chains for critical materials central to the energy transition.

The DFC’s participation at USAEF also signals that its focus extends beyond minerals. In the energy sector, the DFC has extended political risk insurance to gas and infrastructure projects, including in markets like Mozambique, where it played a role in supporting early-stage development of LNG facilities despite significant security and operational challenges. These efforts highlight how U.S. development finance can help move forward energy projects that might otherwise remain stalled in frontier markets.

At USAEF 2025, the DFC’s participation underscores its expanding role in Africa’s energy and critical minerals sectors. The agency’s growing footprint reflects a clear recognition of Africa’s pivotal role in the future of global energy systems and supply chains. By providing risk-tolerant capital for infrastructure such as gas processing, terminals and transport corridors, the DFC is helping to catalyze private investment and strengthen U.S. economic and strategic engagement across the region.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com or visit https://USAfricaEnergy.com. Join us in Houston to connect with the leaders shaping Africa’s energy landscape and experience the momentum that drives ECP’s events worldwide.

Source: APO – Report:

The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Oyo State Government will be joined by the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org) for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Oyo State Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone (SAPZ).

Headlining the ceremony, to be held 2 August 2025 in Ijaiye, Akinyele Local Government Area, will be Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, African Development Bank Group head, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, and Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, alongside senior government officials, development partners, and private sector leaders.

The SAPZ Programme is a flagship of the Bank’s Feed Africa strategy and aims to transform Nigeria’s rural economy by facilitating agro-industrialisation, expanding market access, and attracting private sector investment.

This marks the third groundbreaking under Phase I of the Nigeria SAPZ Programme, and the first in the country’s southwest, following successful launches in Kaduna (http://apo-opa.co/45vNMqL) and Cross River (http://apo-opa.co/4ovxCp4) States, in April 2025. It underscores the Bank’s commitment to fostering regionally balanced agro-industrial development across Nigeria.  

Nigeria’s SAPZ Phase I spans seven states in addition to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT): Kaduna, Cross River, Oyo, Ogun, Kwara, Kano, and Imo, with a total financing envelope of $538 million. The programme is co-funded by the African Development Bank, the Islamic Development Bank, and the International Fund for Agricultural Development, alongside federal and state contributions.

Oyo State, with a population approaching 8 million and the largest landmass in the southern part of the country, is one of Nigeria’s most agriculturally endowed states. Over 90% of its 28,454 square kilometers is arable, positioning it as a key contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural output. Its proximity to Lagos – the most populous city and largest subnational economy in Africa – makes it a natural hub for agro-industrial investment, trade, and market access.

The 300-hectare SAPZ site in Ijaiye lies just 29 kilometres from Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, and is connected to key infrastructure, including the Chief Obafemi Awolowo Railway Station (16 km) and a newly upgraded road network that links to the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport – which is being modernized into an international cargo facility. These assets position Oyo State as a natural hub for domestic and export-oriented agro-processing.

The SAPZ will capitalize on Oyo’s comparative advantage in cassava, maize, poultry, soybeans, and horticulture.

In addition to the Ijaiye hub, the state is also developing a 2,800-hectare agribusiness hub with an Agricultural Transformation Centre (ATC) in Eruwa, designed to serve smallholder farmers and youth agripreneurs through shared infrastructure and service platforms. Both facilities are supported by a $37 million financing package from the African Development Bank.

As the African Development Bank and the Government of Nigeria advance the program, the Oyo SAPZ launch signals the continued scale-up of integrated, inclusive agro-industrial growth across the country.

Under phase 2 of the SAPZ program, another 24 states will come on board. Phase 2 generated $2.2 billion in global investment interest at the Africa Investment Forum held in December 2024 (http://apo-opa.co/3UFakPH).

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

Contact:
Nkiruka Henrietta Ugoh
Nigeria Country Department
email: media@afdb.org