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President Ramaphosa meets with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa meets with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Friday held a bilateral meeting with his Namibian counterpart, President Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of the Republic of Namibia.

The Presidency said the meeting took place in Johannesburg on the occasion of Her Excellency President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s working visit to South Africa.

“South Africa and Namibia share deep, fraternal diplomatic and historical relations forged through their shared struggles against colonialism and apartheid.

“Ties are cemented by strong economic interdependence, as Namibia and South Africa’s bilateral relationship is founded on political ties, leadership and economic integration; both share ideals on the Global South and are members of the SADC [Southern African Development Community] and SACU [Southern African Customs Union],” said the Presidency.

It added that the two countries maintain high-level engagement through a Bi-National Commission (BNC) and have signed over 150 memoranda of understanding covering diplomacy, defence, and trade. –SAnews.gov.za

 

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Deputy President to deliver eulogy at King Makhosonke II funeral

Source: Government of South Africa

Deputy President to deliver eulogy at King Makhosonke II funeral

Deputy President Paul Mashatile will deliver the eulogy at the Special Official Funeral service of the late His Majesty King Makhosonke II, King of the amaNdebele nation, on Sunday, 14 June.

The funeral service will be held at the Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.

His Majesty King Makhosonke II passed away on Tuesday, 9 June 2026, at the age of 65 after reigning for 40 years.

“King Makhosonke II was a symbolic leader who, through his reign, led communities with humanity and honour. The late King was dedicated to the empowerment of rural communities and strengthening relationships between government and traditional leadership. He championed cultural preservation through annual events fostering social cohesion and nation-building,” the Presidency said on Saturday.

It further added that His Majesty’s efforts led to the creation of the Forum of Majesties in South Africa, where he served as Chairperson until his departure.

“For his passion for education and willingness to serve the people, a local school was named after him, the King Makhosonke II Secondary School in KwaMhlanga.”

The Presidency said the King will be remembered for his unconditional love, sacrifice and determination to preserve the Ndebele history and culture.

In his tribute earlier this week, President Cyril Ramaphosa described the King as a pillar of national unity in diversity and as a champion of development, with education and land restitution as part of his vision.

READ | Condolences for His Majesty King Makhosonke II

On Friday, President Ramaphosa announced that the traditional leader of the amaNdebele akwaManala, King Makhosoke II – Enock Makhosoke Mabhena – had  been afforded a special Official Funeral Category 1, with military honours.

READ | Special Official funeral for amaNdebela akwaManala King

Tributes to the King continued throughout the week.- SAnews.gov.za

 

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Chikunga calls for representation for persons with Down syndrome

Source: Government of South Africa

Chikunga calls for representation for persons with Down syndrome

Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has urged governments, organisations and communities to ensure that persons with Down syndrome are meaningfully included in decisions that affect their lives.

The Minister made the call at a side event hosted by Down Syndrome South Africa and the African Down Syndrome Network on Thursday, on the sidelines of the 19th Session of the Conference of States Parties to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (COSP19).

Held under the theme: “Nothing About Us Without Us: Self-Advocates Moving From Participation to Representation”, the event focused on strengthening the role of persons with Down Syndrome in leadership, decision-making and public life.

Addressing delegates, self-advocates, disability rights organisations and stakeholders, Chikunga called for a global shift from visibility to voice, from presence to power, and from participation to representation.

She emphasised that disability inclusion must go beyond consultation and token participation to ensure that persons with disabilities are represented where decisions are made.

“The future of disability inclusion lies not only in recognising the rights of persons with disabilities, but in ensuring that they are empowered to shape the policies, programmes and institutions that affect their lives,” the Minister said.

The Minister reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities through inclusive policies and active participation in global efforts aimed at breaking barriers to development and equality.

She highlighted South Africa’s support for the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS), describing it as a critical framework for promoting disability inclusion across all areas of the UN’s work and strengthening the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

South Africa joined governments including Lesotho, Austria, Costa Rica, Finland, Poland and China, as well as the International Disability Alliance, in supporting the side event and advancing disability inclusion on the international agenda.

United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy

Chikunga welcomed the launch of the revised United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS 2.0), describing it as an important framework for addressing current and emerging challenges while accelerating progress towards disability-inclusive development by 2030.

“The United Nations must continue to lead by example. An inclusive United Nations is better positioned to support Member States in implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” Chikunga said.

While acknowledging progress made globally since the adoption of UNDIS in 2019, the Minister noted that millions of persons with disabilities continue to face barriers in accessing education, healthcare, employment, social protection and decision-making processes.

She warned that these challenges are often exacerbated by poverty, inequality, conflict and humanitarian crises, making it imperative for governments and international institutions to strengthen efforts towards inclusion and accessibility.

As the international community marks the 20th anniversary of the CRPD, the Minister said the launch of UNDIS 2.0 presents an opportunity to renew commitments to building a more responsive and inclusive multilateral system.

She also called for stronger accountability mechanisms within the UN system and greater involvement of persons with disabilities in the design, implementation and evaluation of policies and programmes.

“The United Nations should continue strengthening a culture of accessibility and ensure that persons with disabilities are actively involved in shaping the decisions that affect their lives,” Chikunga said.

Chikunga affirmed South Africa’s support for ongoing UN reform efforts and proposed elevating the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy to an Under-Secretary-General-led office to strengthen its visibility, autonomy and institutional capacity.

The side event served as a platform to amplify the voices of self-advocates with Down syndrome and reinforce the principle that meaningful inclusion requires more than participation—it requires representation, leadership and influence.

As delegates reflected on the theme “Nothing About Us Without Us”, the message from the gathering was clear: persons with Down syndrome and other disabilities must not only be present in conversations about their future, but must be empowered to lead, influence decisions and help shape the future. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tanzania Advances Emergency Medical Team Readiness with Emergency Medical Team (EMT) 10 Steps and Emergency Medical Team Coordination Cell EMTCC Training

Source: APO


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As part of its commitment to strengthening preparedness, early detection, and rapid response to public health emergencies under the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS), the Government of Tanzania is enhancing national emergency response capacity through Emergency Medical Team (EMT) and Emergency Medical Team Coordination Cell (EMTCC) training taking place in Morogoro from 8–12 June 2026. 

Led by the Ministry of Health with support from the Pandemic Fund and the World Health Organization (WHO), the training is helping operationalize Tanzania’s emergency preparedness and response priorities by equipping health workers and emergency responders with the skills needed to deploy and coordinate effective responses during outbreaks, disasters, and other public health emergencies. 

The five-day training brings together 50 participants from Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, including clinicians, EMT coordinators, and partners. It combines the WHO EMT 10-Step approach for operational readiness with EMTCC training focused on coordination, leadership, and information management. 

Using a simulated Ebola outbreak scenario, participants are strengthening practical skills in emergency deployment, coordination, infection prevention and control, and rapid decision-making. The training builds on EMT induction training conducted in Zanzibar earlier this year and supports Tanzania’s efforts to establish a fully operational national EMT system aligned with WHO standards. 

Speaking during the training, Dr. Erasto Sylvanus from the Ministry of Health emphasized the importance of translating preparedness plans into action. 

“This training moves us from theory to practice. It strengthens our ability to deploy well-organized teams and coordinate them effectively during emergencies. Our goal is to ensure that Tanzania has a fully operational EMT system that can respond quickly and save lives.” 

The training comes at a critical time as countries in the region continue to face disease outbreaks and other public health threats. By strengthening emergency coordination mechanisms and rapid deployment systems, Tanzania is reinforcing its ability to detect, contain, and respond to emergencies before they escalate. 

Dr. Janeth Masuma from WHO highlighted the broader impact of the initiative. “Strengthening EMT and EMTCC capacities in line with WHO global standards enables Tanzania to respond more effectively to emergencies while also contributing to regional surge capacity. This investment not only improves national readiness but ensures faster, safer, and more coordinated care for affected populations.” 

The training is expected to produce key operational tools, including national EMT frameworks, deployment plans, standard operating procedures, and strengthened coordination structures, contributing to a more resilient emergency response system and advancing implementation of Tanzania’s National Action Plan for Health Security.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization – United Republic of Tanzania.

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United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Morocco Sign Memorandum of Understanding on Human Rights Cooperation

Source: APO – Report:

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Her Excellency Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Permanent Committee for Human Rights in the United Arab Emirates with the Interministerial Delegation for Human Rights of the Kingdom of Morocco, establishing a joint framework to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of human rights.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed from the Moroccan side by Mohamed El Habib Belkouch, Interministerial Delegate for Human Rights of the Kingdom of Morocco.

Her Excellency Al Kaabi said: “The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding reflects the shared commitment of the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Morocco to further strengthen cooperation in the field of human rights. It provides an important framework for exchanging expertise and best practices, enhancing institutional capacities, and enriching dialogue on human rights issues.”

The signing reflects the continued development of UAE–Morocco relations across political, economic, media and cultural fields, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, and His Majesty King Mohammed VI of the Kingdom of Morocco.

Both the UAE and Morocco have made significant progress in promoting and protecting human rights at the national, regional and international levels. Their active contributions in international fora and within multilateral action reflect a shared commitment to constructive engagement on human rights issues.

The signing ceremony was also attended by His Excellency Al Asri Saeed Al Dhaheri, Ambassador of the UAE to the Kingdom of Morocco.

Through the Memorandum of Understanding, the two sides look forward to developing cooperation in areas including capacity-building, the exchange of expertise, the dissemination of knowledge, and the promotion of a culture of human rights.

– on behalf of United Arab Emirates, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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President Boakai Directs Stronger Support for Farmers, Stresses Agricultural Production and Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Performance

Source: APO – Report:

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Speaking during the opening session of the seventh(7th) Cabinet Meeting of 2026, President Boakai stressed the critical role of agriculture in transforming Liberia’s economy, creating jobs, and reducing the country’s dependence on imported food. 

The meeting was held at the Tea-House of the Executive Mansion under the theme: Leveraing Agriculture for Growth and Improved Livelihood.”

The President noted that without the needed support to farmers and agriculture in general in order to increase production and contribute meaningfully to national development, Liberia will continue to face challenges in the sector despite vast opportunities for expanding domestic food production through improved access to land, modern farming techniques, equipment, and technical expertise. 

“Agriculture remains one of the most important sectors of our economy,” the President noted, adding, “Our objective must be to ensure that farmers receive the support they need to increase production and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

President Boakai called on the Ministry of Agriculture to provide regular updates on crop production nationwide, particularly staple food, rice and other commodities such as other food crops, while ensuring that farmers across the country benefit from sustained technical guidance and extension services.

The President emphasized that agriculture should be viewed as a national undertaking involving all Liberians, stressing that individuals with access to land can contribute significantly to food production when provided with the appropriate support and knowledge.

Further, he highlighted the importance of strengthening agricultural extension programs and training technicians capable of working directly with farming communities to improve productivity and promote modern farming practices.

According to the President, government investments in agricultural machinery, technical training, planning, and extension services will be essential to unlocking Liberia’s agricultural potential and achieving long-term food self-sufficiency.

In addition to his focus on agriculture, President Boakai renewed his Administration’s efforts aimed at maintaining Liberia’s eligibility for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), emphasizing the need for continued compliance with governance and development benchmarks reflected in the MCC Scorecard.

The President urged Cabinet members and public institutions to remain focused on reforms that strengthen democratic governance, transparency, accountability, and economic freedom as key indicators used to assess countries’ eligibility for MCC partnership programs.

He stressed that understanding and maintaining strong performance on the MCC Scorecard is not only necessary for qualification but also critical to sustaining investor confidence and advancing Liberia’s broader development objectives.

President Boakai vowed his Administration’s determination to pursue policies that promote economic growth, strengthen public institutions, and improve the livelihoods of Liberians, calling for collective commitment across government to deliver tangible results for the Liberian people.

The President concluded by lauding Cabinet members for their continued service and dedication to the nation’s development agenda, urging sustained collaboration in implementing programs that improve the lives of citizens throughout the country.

– on behalf of Republic of Liberia: Executive Mansion.

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Well wishes for Comrades Marathon participants

Source: Government of South Africa

Well wishes for Comrades Marathon participants

Government has extended its well wishes and support to the thousands of local and international athletes set to participate in the historic Comrades Marathon this Sunday, 14 June 2026.

“To all the athletes, volunteers, organisers, medical teams, security personnel, and support crews working tirelessly behind the scenes: Ska Fela Moya — never give up,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said ahead of the start of the race.

This year marks the 99th edition of the marathon and will be an “Up Run”, challenging runners to conquer the approximately 85-kilometre route from Durban to the finish line in Pietermaritzburg.

The GCIS said the Comrades Marathon remains a powerful testament to human endurance, resilience, and solidarity adding that behind every runner is a story of sacrifice, months of training, discipline.

“Government call[s] on all South Africans to rally behind the runners and encourage residents across KwaZulu-Natal to line the route and form the famous ‘human walls’ of support. Let us show the world the true meaning of the Ubuntu spirit. Let us rally together, fly our flag high, and carry the runners all the way to the finish line.”

Call for caution 
Meanwhile, the Department of Transport has advised  motorists, runners, and spectators travelling along the major arterial routes between Durban and Pietermaritzburg to be cautious.

“Due to heavy infrastructural upgrades and seasonal winter hazards, severe traffic congestion and volatile driving conditions are anticipated. Motorists are urged to plan, adjust driving behaviour, and remain highly vigilant,” said the department.

It said significant, ongoing road upgrades and construction projects are currently active in and around the Pietermaritzburg area and along key sections of the N3 corridor.

“Following severe traffic disruptions during the previous ‘Up Run,’ law enforcement and race organisers have established integrated traffic mitigation plans. However, delays are still highly likely.”

Various construction zones have restricted lanes, resulting in sudden bottlenecks. 

“Motorists must strictly adhere to temporary speed limits and signage. Construction is taking place on the following zones: between Heidelberg and Villiers, Warden and Harrismith, Estcourt and Nottingham Road, Paradise Valley and Westville viaduct.”

It added that as South Africa enters peak winter, the KwaZulu-Natal interior presents distinct seasonal hazards that demand driver focus. The department called on motorists to reduce speed, increase following distances, and use fog lights.

Road closures
The eThekwini Municipality has advised the public of road closures ahead of the race. 
Roads that will be closed on Sunday are: 
•    Dr Pixley KaSeme Street
•    Joseph Nduli Road
•    N3 West Off-Ramp to King Cetshwayo Highway contra-flow via 45th Cutting to the M13 and Cowies Hill
•    Josiah Gumede Road, Pinetown
•    M13 through Kloof, Gillitts and Old Main Road into Hillcrest
•    R103 towards Cato Ridge via Doonrug Road

READ | Comrades Marathon road closures announced ahead of race day

On Wednesday, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) said it has put comprehensive safety and security measures in place for the race.

“Over 21 000 runners will participate in the 99th edition of the Ultimate Human Race. The route has been declared a no-fly zone, hotspot areas have been identified, and law enforcement, private security, and marshals will be deployed to ensure a safe and incident-free event,” it said. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Holds Telephone Call with Turkish Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, June 12, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani held Friday a telephone call with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkiye, Hakan Fidan.

Discussion during the call, addressed bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them. The two sides also discussed the efforts of mediation between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

In this context, both sides expressed their great satisfaction with the progress achieved in the negotiations and the announcement by the Pakistani mediation team of reaching the final text of the peace agreement. They also expressed their hope that the American and Iranian sides would sign the agreement soon.

Furthermore, the two sides affirmed their full support for the ongoing good offices to address all outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means to consolidate regional and international security and stability and enhance the prospects for sustainable peace in the region. (QNA)

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Holds Telephone Call with Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, June 12, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani held Friday a telephone call with HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Dr. Ayman Safadi.

During the call, they reviewed bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them, and discussed mediation efforts between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

In this context, both sides expressed their great satisfaction with the progress achieved in the negotiations and the announcement by the Pakistani mediation team of reaching the final text of the peace agreement. They also expressed their hope that the American and Iranian sides would sign the agreement soon.

Both sides affirmed their full support for the ongoing good offices to address all outstanding issues through dialogue and peaceful means to consolidate regional and international security and stability and enhance the prospects for sustainable peace in the region. 

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Egyptian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

Source: Government of Qatar

Paris, 12 June 2026

Her Excellency Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, Minister of State for International Cooperation, met today with His Excellency Mr. Mohamed Aboubakr, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptians Abroad for African Affairs of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt, on the sidelines of the Paris International Conference on Civil Society Organizations and the Two-State Solution.

During the meeting, the two sides reviewed cooperation relations between the two countries and discussed ways to support and further strengthen them, in addition to a number of issues of mutual interest.