Somalia – Major Ndayisaba: The Voice Fighting Misinformation on the Frontlines

Source: APO

A Public Information Officer (PIO) within the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) plays an important role in gathering, verifying, and disseminating accurate and timely information to prevent the spread of misinformation and propaganda within the mission area.

As the Mission’s official voice and public face, the department works closely with troops on the frontline to highlight achievements, provide credible updates, and ensure that unverified reports do not circulate among the public or security personnel.

Major Roger Ndayisaba, the Public Information Officer for AUSSOM Sector 5, has become one of the key figures in strengthening the mission’s communication and countering extremist propaganda. Having served for 20 years in the Burundian military and eight years in peacekeeping missions, he brings extensive experience in military operations and strategic communication.

Maj. Ndayisaba said his strong desire to protect civilians and contribute to peace and security through the dissemination of accurate and credible information compelled him to join the military.

“What inspired me to join the military was my strong desire to serve my country, to contribute to the protection of people and to contribute to peace and security,” he said.

For Maj. Ndayisaba, the spread of false information and enemy propaganda pose a serious threat to peacekeeping operations, as it fuels fear, confusion and mistrust among communities and security forces.

“The challenges we face in the mission are many. First, the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation. False information spreads very quickly through social media,” he noted.

To address these challenges, Maj. Ndayisaba continuously monitors media platforms, verifies reports, and provides information to counter misleading narratives spread by Al-Shabaab and other armed groups.

“We respond quickly to counter misinformation with accurate information. This timely communication helps us to fight propaganda by armed groups and prevents rumours from gaining credibility,” he said.

Maj. Ndayisaba’s proactive approach has strengthened trust among the mission, Somali Security Forces and local communities.

“Trust is essential to combat propaganda. Communicating consistently, and in an honest and transparent manner, acknowledging challenges, when necessary, ensured that community members communicate freely and openly thereby sharing information with the mission,” he said. He emphases the importance of responsible journalism and coordinated communication in conflict environments to save lives and support ongoing peace and stabilisation efforts.

Despite working in a challenging environment far from home, Maj. Ndayisaba finds strength and motivation in the positive moments he shares with his colleagues during the mission.

He notes that the mission’s achievements and the positive impact on local communities, particularly children, continue to inspire and encourage him in his daily work.

“Some of the memorable moments are when we see the positive impacts of our work on local communities such as children smiling during outreach programme, and successful peace initiatives,” Maj. Ndayisaba said.

According to Maj. Ndayisaba, seeing lives improved through peacekeeping efforts signifies the importance of the mission and motivates him to remain committed to his duties.

The work of the Public Information Officer continues to play a vital role in supporting the success of the AUSSOM mission by promoting transparency, countering misinformation and ensuring that realities of frontline operations are accurately represented to the public.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

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South Africa: Communications and Digital Technologies welcomes clean audit outcomes achieved by its entities

Source: APO


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The Department of Communications and Digital Technologies welcomes the clean audit outcomes achieved by three of its entities, Sentech, the Film and Publication Board (FPB), and the National Electronic Media Institute of South Africa (NEMISA) for the 2025/26 financial year. 

The Department also welcomes the South African Post Office’s (SAPO) achievement of an unqualified audit opinion, its first in six years. The outcomes, presented as part of the entities’ respective Annual General Meetings (AGMs), are an encouraging indication of the progress being made to strengthen governance, accountability and financial management across the DCDT portfolio. FPB, Sentech and SAPO held their AGMs last week, while NEMISA held its AGM yesterday, 15 September 2026. These outcomes reflect clear and positive progress across the entities. 

The Department congratulates the Boards, executive management and employees of FPB, Sentech, SAPO and NEMISA for the discipline, commitment and sustained effort required to achieve these results. While these audit outcomes are important achievements, they are not an end in themselves. They provide a strong foundation for institutions that are well governed, accountable and better positioned to deliver effectively on their respective mandates. 

The DCDT has placed increased emphasis on improving governance and audit outcomes across its portfolio of entities. This includes closer monitoring of audit action 1 plans, strengthening oversight and accountability structures, addressing the root causes of recurring audit findings, and ensuring that management and Boards take responsibility for maintaining effective control environments. These interventions form part of the Department’s broader objective of building highperforming and well-governed ICT public entities capable of supporting South Africa’s digital transformation agenda. 

The improved audit outcomes demonstrate what can be achieved when sound governance, effective internal controls and consistent oversight are embedded in the operations of public institutions. DCDT will continue working closely with the leadership and Boards of all its entities to address outstanding governance and audit matters. The objective is not simply to respond to audit findings after the fact, but to build institutions in which good governance, accountability and sound financial management become part of the everyday culture of the portfolio. 

These achievements are important examples of that progress and should serve as encouragement across the portfolio. The Department remains committed to ensuring that public resources entrusted to its entities are managed responsibly, and that strong governance ultimately translates into improved performance and better service delivery. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

South Africa: MEC Ivan Meyer reaffirms Western Cape support for clothing and textile sector

Source: APO


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Western Cape Minister of Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Dr Ivan Meyer, today reaffirmed the Western Cape Government’s support for the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC) during a visit to leading cycling apparel manufacturer Ciovita in Woodstock, Cape Town.

Ciovita, which employs 265 staff members, is an active member of the CCTC and serves as an example of how innovation, quality manufacturing, skills development and export competitiveness can drive growth and job creation in the Western Cape’s Clothing, Textile, Footwear and Leather (CTFL) sector. The sector contributes 4.4% of provincial manufacturing gross value added (GVA) and 10% of manufacturing employment in the Western Cape.

The Minister met with representatives of the cluster and Ciovita to discuss opportunities to further grow the sector, strengthen local manufacturing, expand exports, and create more jobs through collaboration between government and industry.

“The Western Cape Government values the important role played by the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster in strengthening the competitiveness of our manufacturing sector. The cluster brings together more than 100 value chain stakeholders to drive investment, productivity, localisation and job creation,” said Minister Meyer. “Its goals align strongly with our Growth for Jobs Strategy, which places economic growth, investment, skills development and private-sector-led job creation at the centre of building a more prosperous Western Cape.”

Courtney Grant, Chief Facilitator of the CCTC said, “The entity’s core mission is to build a globally competitive, inclusive, and sustainable clothing, textile, footwear and leather value chain in the Western Cape. We do this by bringing industry stakeholders together to improve productivity, unlock investment, strengthen localisation and create quality jobs. Companies such as Ciovita embody exactly what the Cluster stands for: a commitment to innovation, world-class manufacturing standards, skills development and export-led growth. Their success demonstrates what is possible when local manufacturers compete on quality, agility and excellence.”

The Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC), established in 2005, has become one of South Africa’s leading industrial clusters, supporting collaboration across retailers, manufacturers, SMEs and support institutions. The organisation has set ambitious targets to localise production, create new manufacturing jobs and unlock additional investment in the value chain.

The Western Cape remains South Africa’s premier destination for higher-value, design-led clothing and textile manufacturing. The province is home to 158 clothing manufacturers and nearly 18 000 formal CTFL employees, while the City of Cape Town hosts the headquarters of many of South Africa’s leading clothing retailers.

Minister Meyer noted that companies such as Ciovita demonstrate the resilience and potential of the sector.

“Ciovita is proof that Western Cape manufacturers can compete successfully through innovation, quality and agility. The company’s continued growth and its commitment to local production underscore the opportunities that exist in advanced, specialised manufacturing. Businesses like Ciovita show how the Western Cape can build globally competitive industries while creating sustainable employment opportunities for local residents.”

Freddie Enslin, Commercial Director of Ciovita, said:

“When Ciovita was founded, we set out with the ambition of taking Woodstock to the world by creating cycling apparel that could compete with the best brands in Europe and around the world. While our name still reflects those European aspirations, the kit we produce today stands shoulder to shoulder with the very best the global cycling industry has to offer. Now more than ever, our mission is to bring our vision of what cycling kit can and should be to the world. We are proud to manufacture in Woodstock and the Western Cape, and our goal is simple: to take Woodstock to the world through world-class cycling apparel.”

The Minister added that manufacturing remains a critical pillar of the Western Cape economy and an important contributor to inclusive growth.

“Our Growth for Jobs Strategy recognises manufacturing as a key driver of economic development. By supporting clusters such as the Cape Clothing and Textile Cluster (CCTC) and successful businesses such as Ciovita, we are building an economy that creates jobs, attracts investment and grows exports. Together, government and industry can unlock the full potential of the Western Cape’s clothing and textile value chain.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Government.

July tourism surge boosts Durban’s revitalisation drive

Source: Government of South Africa

July tourism surge boosts Durban’s revitalisation drive

The eThekwini Municipality has recorded a 22.4% month-on-month surge in international visitors to the municipality in July with domestic visitor spending also on the rise.

These figures were presented during the Presidential eThekwini Working Group on Tourism Revitalisation Workstream 4 meeting held this week in the south of Durban, where stakeholders reviewed the city’s latest tourism performance and interventions to strengthen its appeal as a destination.

Data from South African Tourism shows that eThekwini recorded about 28 000 international arrivals in July, generating an estimated R83.1 million in visitor spending.

South African Tourism General Manager of Data and Analytics, Melusi Mngomezulu, said sustained growth at the current rate could result in significant increase in tourism revenue by the end of the year.

“If the positive trend recorded in July continues through the remainder of the year, eThekwini could see significant tourism growth by December.

“At the current rate, the city could close the year at just under R1 billion in international tourism revenue contribution,” Mngomezulu said.

He highlighted that growth provides a stronger indication of progress not only in visitor numbers and spending, but also in the broader revitalisation of eThekwini as a leading tourism destination.

International markets also continue to contribute to the city’s tourism economy, with visitors from the United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, United States and France among the key markets in July.

Together, these markets contributed R10.3 million, with France among the leading international contributors to eThekwini’s tourism economy.

Domestic tourism remains key driver

While international tourism showed encouraging signs of recovery, domestic tourism continues to account for a significant share of visitor spending in the city.

Domestic visitors contributed more than R830 million to eThekwini’s economy in July, representing a 19% increase from June and the strongest monthly contribution recorded so far this year.

The spending data also highlights the broader economic impact of tourism, with retail, restaurants, food and groceries recording the highest levels of visitor expenditure.

The figures highlight how visitor activity supports businesses and livelihoods across different sectors of the local economy.

The positive July performance comes as the municipality and its partners through the Presidential eThekwini Working Group on Tourism Revitalisation, continue implementing measures aimed at strengthening destination, improving the visitor experience, and unlocking the full potential of tourism across eThekwini. – SAnews.gov.za

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Created to explore: Canon EOS R8 Mark II inspires full-frame confidence and stability in a travel-ready size

Source: APO

Canon today unveils the Canon EOS R8 Mark II (https://apo-opa.co/4yJiqc9), a lightweight full-frame camera that inspires confidence and offers creative freedom.

The Canon EOS R8 Mark II combines portability with full-frame mirrorless camera quality and advanced stabilisation to capture wider views, beautiful background blur and stunning low-light image quality.

Building on the success of the EOS R8, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II responds to the needs of photographers with greater control and capability in a compact body. Made for those who want to explore more, from new places to new creative ideas, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II is a versatile choice for travel photography. It’s easy to carry, simple to use and helps to capture unrepeatable moments.

The distinctly modern design marks a new chapter in the EOS R System. The Canon EOS R8 Mark II carries forward Canon’s design heritage while evolving it into a more contemporary form that meets the needs and preferences of today’s photographers and creators. 

At the heart of the Canon EOS R8 Mark II is a 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor, complemented by a DIGIC X processor. Together, they deliver exceptional clarity, rich colour and impressive dynamic range. A powerful In-Body Image Stabilizer (IBIS) provides up to 7.5 stops1 of stability, making it easier to shoot handheld and capture sharp images in low light and on the move without compromising image quality.

With an abundance of creative and performance-focused imaging technology in a compact, stabilised body, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II is well suited to travel photography. Its feature-rich design includes advanced capabilities inherited from high-end EOS R System cameras, such as Register People Priority, which automatically keeps selected individuals in focus, and pre-continuous shooting, which helps capture scenes that unfold in an instant, before the user has time to react.

Ready for every moment of the journey

From spotting wildlife on safari to street performers launching into spectacular tricks and festival crowds throwing colourful powder into the air, the most memorable travel experiences are often fleeting and difficult to photograph. With its 40fps2 shooting speed and expanded buffer that can handle up to 73 RAW files in a single burst, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II keeps pace with fast-moving action.

Pre-continuous shooting in H+ mode gives Canon EOS R8 Mark II users the edge during even more unpredictable situations. Recording approximately half a second before the shutter button is fully pressed, it provides up to 20 extra images to help secure the decisive shot. Whether you’re waiting for a crowd to clear at an iconic landmark or anticipating a family member’s reaction to trying a new cuisine, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II captures the shot before your reflexes do.

Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with Deep Learning subject detection automatically recognises and tracks people, animals and vehicles, bringing subjects into sharp focus rapidly with eye, face, head and body tracking. The Canon EOS R8 Mark II’s improved tracking persistence reliably maintains focus even when the subject briefly disappears from view, making it easy to keep travel companions in focus as they move through crowded locations. Autofocus is also possible in light levels as low as EV -7.53 – the same as the flagship EOS R1 professional camera.

Register People Priority brings additional precision when photographing the people who matter most. Users can register up to 10 faces in the camera and up to 100 on a memory card, allowing the Canon EOS R8 Mark II to automatically recognise registered family members and friends whenever they appear in the frame. It then focuses on them according to the priority set by the user – helping to keep loved ones sharp in busy travel scenes, group shots and spontaneous encounters.

Compact, lightweight, creative

A new streamlined EOS design offers confident, intuitive handling, with customisable buttons, controls and modes enabling users to personalise the Canon EOS R8 Mark II to suit their shooting style. The camera also pairs well with a versatile range of lightweight Canon RF lenses, from the all-purpose RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM (https://apo-opa.co/4rhIh8A) and ultra-fast RF 45mm F1.2 STM (https://apo-opa.co/4dFliys) prime to the compact RF 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM (https://apo-opa.co/4h6UsjJ) telephoto zoom for wildlife and distant subjects.

Design improvements compared with the EOS R8 include a multi-controller that makes it quicker to operate the camera when shooting handheld. The optional Canon Extension Grip EG-E2 further enhances handling, and features a separate tripod socket plus direct access to the camera battery for added convenience.

Flexible colour tools, including Canon Picture Styles and Filmtone Colour Filters, give photographers the freedom to capture the character of a destination as they experience it – and create images that make the viewer feel as though they are actually there. Additionally, the Canon EOS R8 Mark II’s adjustable, natural-looking Smooth Skin effect makes it easy to create flattering portraits straight from the camera without the need for complex post-processing.

Photographers can also explore the world of immersive three-dimensional images and models. The Canon EOS R8 Mark II is the first camera to include Canon’s new Dual Pixel 3D imaging technology, allowing users to capture JPEGs containing depth information and convert them into 3D content using the free Dual Pixel 3D Converter App for Windows.4

The freedom to stay connected

Comprehensive connectivity means Canon EOS R8 Mark II users can share on the go. Wi-Fi® (2.4GHz / 5GHz)5 and Bluetooth® 5.3 provide fast and reliable wireless transfer of images and video, while support for the Canon Camera Connect app enables remote shooting and seamless image sharing from a smartphone. Automatic backups and image sorting via www.image.Canon offer peace of mind while travelling.

A high-speed USB-C® port provides up to 10Gbps data transfer, along with USB charging and power delivery, giving users the flexibility to connect via cable when needed. For long days out, the ability to charge on the go and shoot for longer using a power bank adds further convenience. USB livestreaming also highlights the Canon EOS R8 Mark II’s versatility, making it simple to share adventures live while offering the freedom to explore new ways of using the camera over time.

High-quality video and sound recording make the Canon EOS R8 Mark II an ideal hybrid camera for those looking to explore their creativity in new ways. Oversampled 4K video from 6K delivers superior detail, while Full HD shot at up to 180fps opens up the world of slow-motion recording. Cinema View (2.35:1 aspect ratio) and Custom Picture profiles, including Canon Log 3 and HLG, make it simple to achieve a cinematic look, while Movie Digital IS helps maintain stable footage while filming handheld.

The Canon EOS R8 Mark II will appeal to photographers who value the creative possibilities of a full-frame sensor, but don’t want to compromise on portability. Bringing together image quality, speed and creative control in a travel-ready design, it’s a camera that’s ready for every journey.

Key features of the Canon EOS R8 Mark II:

• Lightweight at approximately 499g (546g with card and battery)

• 24.2MP full-frame sensor

• Up to 7.5-stop1 Coordinated lens and in-body IS

• 40fps2 continuous shooting,  with a bigger buffer than the EOS R8

• Pre-continuous shooting in H+ mode up to 20 frames

• Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with intelligent subject detection

• Filmtone Colour Filters, Custom Picture and Look File (LUT) support

• Wi-Fi® (2.4GHz / 5GHz)5 and Bluetooth® 5.3

• USB-C® connectivity and charging

• Livestreaming options

• Up to 4K 60p video, oversampled from 6K

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact: 
Canon Central and North Africa 
Jayashri Namdar 
e. jayashri.namdar@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 (https://apo-opa.co/4j9p1rH) – ‘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 

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Nigeria strengthens Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) prevention workforce through expanded Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) training

Source: APO

For Dr Aminatu Makarfi Umar, a gynaecologist in Kaduna State, HIV prevention should be part of routine care for women who may benefit from it.

“Every pregnant woman at increased risk of HIV deserves to know her prevention options,” she said. “I will make sure this becomes part of routine care in my clinic.”

Her commitment reflects a wider effort by Nigeria to strengthen the capacity of health workers to provide quality, respectful and people-centred HIV prevention services.

An estimated 1.9 million people are living with HIV in Nigeria. Globally, around 41 million people were living with HIV in 2025, including 53% who were women and girls. Although progress has been made, preventing new HIV acquisitions remains essential to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Building skills to expand access
In May 2026, the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Control Programme convened 80 health workers from 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory for a six-day national training of trainers on pre-exposure prophylaxis, known as PrEP.

PrEP is medicine taken by people who do not have HIV to reduce their risk of acquiring HIV.

The training brought together doctors, nurses, pharmacists, programme officers, academics and community representatives.

Participants learned how to counsel clients, assess who can benefit from PrEP, explain the available choices and support people to continue using their preferred prevention method.

The 80 participants are expected to train other providers in their states and facilities, expanding the number of frontline health workers able to provide HIV prevention counselling and PrEP services.

Early follow-on training has reached 90 participants in Benue State, 118 in Taraba State and 26 in Ekiti State.

“Our pool of master trainers was not enough to meet demand,” said Taiwo Olakunle, PrEP Lead at the national programme. “This training expands that pool and equips participants to train others.”

Supporting Nigeria’s national priorities
The initiative supports the priorities of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and Nigeria’s goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

The initiative contributes to Nigeria’s commitment to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 through strengthening prevention services and health workforce capacity. 

It also contributes to the implementation of the National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan 2026–2030, which was launched in June 2026 and emphasizes national ownership, health-system integration, sustainable financing, community engagement and measurable results. It complements Nigeria’s National HIV Prevention Plan 2026–2030, developed by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the National Agency for the Control of AIDS as a roadmap for reversing the epidemic.

The course was informed by a 2025 national PrEP assessment conducted by the national programme and World Health Organization (WHO)

The assessment identified differences in training coverage and opportunities to incorporate PrEP into antenatal care, sexual and reproductive health services, sexually transmitted infection care and support for people affected by gender-based violence.

Offering people more choice
Nigeria is preparing its workforce to provide a wider range of HIV prevention choices. These include oral PrEP and longer-acting products, subject to national guidance, approval and implementation plans.

WHO recommended twice-yearly injectable lenacapavir as an additional PrEP choice in July 2025. WHO has also recommended long-acting injectable cabotegravir. Offering different options can help people choose a method that suits their needs and circumstances.

“Offering the full range of options is part of patient-centred care,” said Samiyu Dingari, a pharmacist from Adamawa State. “It is not just about dispensing what we are used to.”

Turning training into better services
The training was government-led, supported by World Health Organization (WHO) and funded by the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF).

Other participating partners included the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Excellence Community Education Welfare Scheme, Heartland Alliance Ltd/GTE, Root to Rise and the Society for Family Health.

WHO contributed technical guidance, supported the development of national guidelines and helped revise the training curriculum. This support contributes to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s efforts to expand equitable access to HIV prevention services.

The next step is to translate training into measurable improvements. States and health facilities are encouraged to continue training frontline providers and incorporate PrEP into routine services.

Progress should be tracked through the national and programmatic indicators, including the: numbers of individuals tested HIV-negative and assessed eligible for PrEP the number initiated on PrEP, and the number who continue or discontinue PrEP over time.

These trainings are expected to strengthen the capacity of service providers and expand access to quality PrEP services, thereby contributing to the achievement of national HIV prevention target.  

As Dr Mya Ngon, WHO Team Lead for Disease Prevention and Control, said: “Training is the starting point. What matters is how this translates into consistent, respectful and evidence-based care.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of WHO Regional Office for Africa.

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Kenya: Building a Culture of Accountability Through Dialogue

Source: APO

Accountability is strengthened when oversight goes beyond compliance to become a tool for institutional learning, professional growth and continuous improvement.

The Director, Directorate of Oversight, Compliance and Accountability (DOCA), Major General Mohamed Iddi, convened a Baraza at Defence Headquarters, bringing together officers, warrant officers and senior non-commissioned officers as the Directorate marked its inaugural anniversary.

The forum provided an opportunity to reflect on DOCA’s first year of establishing and integrating its oversight role within the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). Personnel shared experiences, discussed procedural challenges and explored ways of strengthening oversight while promoting trust and constructive engagement across the institution.

Addressing the personnel, Major General Iddi emphasised that effective oversight should be objective, professional and focused on strengthening systems and improving organisational performance rather than being confrontational.

He underscored professional competence as essential to credible oversight, encouraging personnel to continuously develop their knowledge and skills, share experiences and remain abreast of emerging standards, risks and best practices.

Major General Iddi also called for greater cohesion within the Directorate, emphasising teamwork, information-sharing and collective responsibility. He urged personnel to maintain constructive relationships with the Services, noting that independence in oversight should reinforce impartiality without creating institutional isolation.

Reflecting on DOCA’s first year, he commended personnel for establishing processes, building institutional experience and producing credible reports, while challenging them to build on these gains and pursue greater impact.

Looking ahead, the Directorate will focus on improving the quality and consistency of inspections, strengthening assurance across the Services and consolidating systems that translate oversight findings into measurable institutional improvement.

The Baraza reinforced dialogue as an important pillar of accountability, enabling DOCA to strengthen professional relationships, promote continuous learning and contribute to a more effective, accountable and mission-ready KDF.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

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President Ramaphosa welcomes R2bn Club Med investment

Source: Government of South Africa

President Ramaphosa welcomes R2bn Club Med investment

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the opening of South Africa’s first Club Med resort, describing the more than R2 billion development as a vote of confidence in the country’s tourism industry, businesses and people.

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille delivered the President’s address on his behalf at the official opening of the restort in Ballito, KwaZulu-Natal, on Thursday.

The President said the development represents the largest hospitality investment in South Africa and the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) since Sun City opened in the 1970s. 

“This mega-development is a vote of confidence in South African enterprise, in the capabilities of our people and in the future of our tourism industry,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said the development was proudly South African-funded and backed by an investment consortium committed to advancing broad-based black economic empowerment.

The investment has also created employment and skills opportunities, particularly for communities surrounding the resort.

“I am encouraged to hear that during construction more than 2 300 direct and indirect jobs were created.

“In addition, 600 permanent direct jobs have been created and a further 1 500 indirect jobs are being supported across local suppliers and related industries,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President said 84% of employees at the Beach Resort are South Africans, while all employees at the Vikela Safari Lodge are from surrounding communities.

Tourism growth

President Ramaphosa said the opening comes at a positive time for the tourism sector, which has continued to record growth in international arrivals.

“For this calendar year until the end of July 2026, South Africa’s tourism sector continued its strong growth trajectory. The growth in international tourist arrivals between January 2026 and July 2026 to 6.5 million is phenomenal.

“This represents growth of 12.4 percent compared to the same period last year.

“The opening of this new jewel in the North Coast comes at the right time as the tourist industry is getting ready to welcome guests for the festive season. I am confident that the official opening of this jewel will entice more visitors to our shores,” he said. 

Opportunities for local businesses

President Ramaphosa said the resort’s operations would create opportunities for small, micro and medium enterprises through demand for fresh produce, maintenance, transport and other services. 

He welcomed Club Med’s efforts to partner with local businesses, noting that local procurement, fair access to supplier opportunities and partnerships with smaller tourism operators would help ensure that the benefits of the investment are more widely shared.

“That is how tourism investment can contribute to the prosperity of a nation,” he said.

The President also acknowledged the construction workers, artisans and contractors who helped bring the development to life, saying the experience gained from working on a project of this scale would benefit them in future projects.

He said employees working at the resort would also play an important role in shaping visitors’ experiences of South Africa.

“Their professionalism and hospitality will help shape how they remember our country,” he said.

Public-private partnership

President Ramaphosa said the project demonstrates the value of collaboration between government, business and communities.

He said government has a responsibility to create conditions that allow investments to succeed through reliable infrastructure, responsive public services, efficient administration and safe communities.

“Business has a responsibility to invest for the long term, develop its workforce and build meaningful relationships with the communities around it.

“When these responsibilities come together, public and private partnership becomes something people can see in their daily lives.

“People see new job opportunities, businesses growing, the youth obtaining the necessary qualifications and communities becoming partners.

“That is the kind of cooperation we must deepen across South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.

The President emphasised the importance of protecting the natural heritage that underpins the tourism industry, including through responsible use of water and energy, reducing waste and caring for the surrounding environment.

“Responsible use of water and energy, less waste and care for the surrounding environment must remain part of the everyday work of tourism,” he said.

The President thanked Club Med and its partners for their investment in South Africa and welcomed international guests to the new resort.

“To our international guests, welcome. Enjoy this resort and take time to discover the people, places and stories beyond it,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Kenya: Embracing Technology to Enhance Maritime Domain Awareness

Source: APO

The maritime security environment is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancement and the emergence of increasingly complex threats above, on and beneath the sea. Maintaining effective maritime domain awareness therefore requires continuous investment in modern surveillance, detection and response capabilities.

Against this evolving security landscape, the Kenya Navy hosted representatives from M/S SAAB, a Swedish defence and security company specialising in advanced surveillance and defence technologies, for a courtesy call on the Commander Kenya Navy, Major General Paul Otieno, at the Kenya Navy Headquarters.

The engagement provided a platform to explore emerging technologies and naval capabilities that could strengthen maritime surveillance, coastal security and the detection of evolving threats within the maritime domain.

During the engagement, SAAB presented its portfolio of naval technologies, including advanced maritime surveillance and coastal radar systems designed to enhance situational awareness and support timely detection and tracking of activities at sea.

The presentation also highlighted 3D radar and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) capable of detecting, tracking and supporting responses to emerging aerial threats, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), within the maritime operating environment.

Underwater domain awareness also featured prominently, with SAAB showcasing advanced sensors and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) capable of supporting surveillance beneath the surface. Such technologies provide enhanced visibility across the underwater domain and strengthen the ability to detect and monitor activities that may affect maritime security.

The engagement highlighted the growing role of technology, innovation and strategic partnerships in building resilient maritime security capabilities. For the Kenya Navy, leveraging emerging technologies remains critical to enhancing maritime domain awareness, strengthening operational readiness and safeguarding Kenya’s territorial waters and wider maritime interests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

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Investing in Fitness and Welfare

Source: APO

Sporting facilities play an important role in promoting physical fitness, resilience, team spirit and operational readiness among military personnel. This was reaffirmed as the Kenya Air Force (KAF) Commander, Major General Bernard Waliaula, commissioned the renovated Moi Air Base (MAB) Swimming Pool on 16 September 2026.

Established in 1942 during the Royal Air Force era, the facility has served generations of military personnel for more than eight decades. Its renovation restores functionality, enhances safety and provides a modern facility to support training, fitness and welfare.

Speaking during the commissioning, Major General Waliaula emphasised that infrastructure is a critical enabler of military capability, noting that modernisation must extend beyond platforms and equipment to facilities that support personnel development and readiness. He highlighted swimming as an important contributor to endurance, resilience and water confidence. “The facility will also support joint training by personnel from the Kenya Army and Kenya Navy, enhancing interoperability and cohesion,” he added.

The Commander appreciated the support of Defence Headquarters and commended the MAB leadership, Chief of Infrastructure and project team for their professionalism in delivering the renovation. He urged users to observe safety requirements, maintain cleanliness and uphold responsible stewardship to ensure the facility remains functional and delivers sustained value.

The Base Commander MAB, Brigadier Herbert Wafula, expressed appreciation for the continued support from KAF Headquarters, noting that the renovation demonstrates the Commander KAF’s commitment to improving the training, welfare and working environment of personnel.

The commissioning marks another step in strengthening the Kenya Air Force’s infrastructure and ensuring that personnel remain fit, resilient and ready to meet operational demands.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence – Kenya.

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