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Ammat Global Resources Redefines Local Content Through Congolese-Led Operations

Source: APO

In the Republic of Congo’s offshore energy sector, where debates around local content have often centered on compliance thresholds and regulatory minimums, Ammat Global Resources is presenting a different approach. The independent upstream operator has built a workforce model in which 80-85% of all roles – including executive leadership, engineering and asset management – are held by Congolese nationals.

From its operational headquarters in Pointe-Noire to its offshore production assets across the Loango and Zatchi fields, Ammat’s organizational architecture reflects a deliberate shift away from expatriate-heavy operational control toward domestic technical ownership. In practical terms, this means Congolese petroleum engineers, reservoir specialists and asset managers are not only involved in field operations, but leading them.

This model stands in contrast to the long-established upstream norm in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, where complex offshore assets have historically depended on expatriate technical managers, often at significant cost and with limited knowledge transfer. Ammat’s approach directly challenges that dependency assumption by embedding domestic expertise at the core of operational decision-making.

Operational Efficiency Gains

By consolidating technical authority within-country, the company reduces exposure to international staffing volatility, minimizes expatriate overhead costs, and shortens decision cycles across drilling, production optimization and maintenance planning. This creates a leaner operational profile that is particularly relevant in mature offshore assets, where efficiency gains often depend on speed of execution rather than capital expansion.

Equally important is the regulatory and institutional dimension. Deep domestic execution has strengthened Ammat’s alignment with Congolese authorities and regulatory stakeholders, creating a more predictable operating environment. In resource-dependent economies, this trust factor often determines the difference between stalled projects and sustained production lifecycles. By situating Congolese professionals in high-accountability roles, the company reduces the friction typically associated with external operators perceived as distant from national development priorities.

Local Content Redefined

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) has consistently argued that local content must move beyond employment quotas to become a mechanism for industrial capability-building. Ammat’s structure reflects this principle in practice. Rather than positioning local workers in peripheral service roles, the company has embedded them in core technical and strategic functions, effectively internalizing operational intelligence within the host country.

“Local content is about transferring real control, real expertise and real value creation to African professionals. What Ammat Global Resources is demonstrating in Congo is that when nationals are trusted with full operational responsibility, the result is not just compliance, but stronger assets, better decision-making, and long-term sustainability. This is the future of African energy,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

From an ESG perspective, Ammat’s model also strengthens the social and governance pillars of its operations. Socially, it accelerates skills transfer, professional development and long-term employment stability for Congolese talent. Governance-wise, it enhances accountability by ensuring that decision-makers are embedded within the regulatory and community context in which assets operate.

The environmental side is also strengthened indirectly. Localized technical teams tend to respond more rapidly to operational inefficiencies, maintenance issues, and environmental risk factors due to proximity and institutional continuity. This reduces downtime and improves adherence to environmental management protocols, particularly in sensitive offshore environments.

Ultimately, Ammat Global Resources is positioning itself as a case study in what local content maturity can look like when treated as a core business strategy rather than a compliance obligation. By centering Congolese professionals across its value chain – from engineering to executive management – the company is demonstrating that localization can be a catalyst for operational resilience, cost efficiency and long-term partnership stability in Congo’s upstream sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Republic of Congo’s Newly-Appointed Hydrocarbons Minister Stev Simplice Onanga to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Amid Major Gas Expansion Push

Source: APO


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The Republic of Congo is set to reinforce its position as one of Africa’s fastest-growing gas exporters at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, with newly-appointed Hydrocarbons Minister Stev Simplice Onanga confirmed to speak at the event in Cape Town. His participation comes as Congo advances a broad investment drive centered on LNG expansion, upstream development and accelerated deal-making across its offshore sector.

Recently appointed to lead the Ministry of Hydrocarbons, Minister Onanga has already signaled a strong focus on fast-tracking projects, strengthening local content participation and positioning the Republic of Congo as a competitive regional gas hub. His agenda aligns with a period of rapid transformation in the country’s hydrocarbons sector, driven by major offshore gas developments and renewed investor momentum.

At the center of this growth is Eni’s Congo LNG project, which entered a major new phase in early 2026 with the launch of exports from the Nguya FLNG facility offshore Pointe-Noire. The startup of the second floating LNG unit has increased Congo’s liquefaction capacity to approximately 3 million tons per year, building on the earlier Tango FLNG development and reinforcing the country’s emergence as a strategic LNG exporter to international markets. Drawing gas from the offshore Nené and Litchendjili fields in the Marine XII permit, the project has become one of Africa’s most significant recent gas monetization successes and a cornerstone of Congo’s broader diversification strategy.

Momentum is also building across the country’s upstream sector. TotalEnergies continues to expand its offshore footprint through exploration activity tied to the Nzombo permit, while Perenco is advancing redevelopment work at the Kombi-Likalala-Libondo II field to sustain production and improve gas recovery. Alongside these developments, Congo has been advancing regulatory reforms aimed at attracting new capital into both oil and gas projects, including efforts to strengthen the legal framework for gas development and support future licensing activity.

As global demand for diversified gas supply continues to rise, Congo is increasingly positioning natural gas not only as an export driver, but also as a catalyst for domestic industrialization, power generation and long-term economic growth. The country’s expanding FLNG infrastructure, combined with its established offshore production base and strategic Atlantic coastline, has elevated its profile within Africa’s evolving LNG landscape and strengthened its role in supporting energy security for both regional and international markets.

“Africa is entering a new era of gas development, and the Republic of Congo is emerging as one of the continent’s most important LNG and offshore growth stories,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “With major FLNG expansion, upstream investment and a renewed focus on local content and deal execution, Congo is demonstrating how African producers can leverage gas resources to drive industrial growth, energy security and long-term economic value.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Merck Foundation in partnership with Ghana First Lady and Lordina Foundation launch their “Educating Linda” Program to support Girl Education

Source: APO

  • Merck Foundation declared Ghana First Lady as the Ambassador of “More than a Mother” to build healthcare capacity, break infertility stigma, and support girl education.

​Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their Educating Linda program in Ghana in partnership with The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign said, “It is a great pleasure to meet our long-term partner and my dear sister, The First Lady of Ghana & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, to officially launch programs, Educating Linda and Scholarships Program, in partnership with her office and the Lordina Foundation, to support girl education in the country.

As a part of Educating Linda, we are providing annual scholarships to 40 high-performing yet underprivileged Ghanian schoolgirls, till they finish their education. Our aim is to ensure that financial challenges never stand in the way of their dreams and potential. We strongly believe that educating a girl empowers not only her, but also her family, community, and future generations.”

H.E. Mrs. LORDINA DRAMANI MAHAMA, First Lady of Ghana & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, expressed, “I am very happy to welcome the Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. We officially launched the Merck Foundation Educating Linda program, through which we are providing annual scholarships to our 40 deserving schoolgirls to support their education until they graduate. This program is very close to my heart, as I strongly believe that educating girls contributes significantly to the social and economic development of our nation.”

During the program, the Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with the First Lady of Ghana, took the opportunity to meet and encourage the Ghanian schoolgirls who are the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program, and to hear directly from them and their parents about the impact the scholarships have had on their lives.

Merck Foundation together with Ghana First Lady has also provided 257 scholarships for Ghanian healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties; including Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Urology, Women’s Health, Family Medicine, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Preventive Cardiovascular and Obesity & Weight Management, Oncology, Cancer Care, Acute Medicine, Respiratory Care, Critical care, General Surgery, Trauma and Orthopaedics, Psychiatry, Dermatology, Emergency & Resuscitation Medicine, Gastroenterology, Infectious diseases, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Neuroimaging for Research, Pain Management, Rheumatology, Neonatal Medicine, Paediatrics and Child Health, Care of the Older Person and more.

During the visit, Merck Foundation also conducted their Alumni Summit 2026, to acknowledge and meet their Alumni. Moreover, they also met and recognized the Merck Foundation Awards Winners of 2024 and 2025.

The Educating Linda program by Merck Foundation in partnership with African First Ladies, has provided more than 1,500 annual scholarships for schoolgirls across 21 African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and others. The program also ensures that thousands of schoolgirls across Africa receive essential school supplies, removing further practical obstacles to their education.

“When a girl is educated, entire nation is empowered. Educated girls grow into empowered women, who drive prosperity, strengthen families, and advance nations. That is the vision behind everything we do: Girl Education today for Women Empowerment tomorrow,” said Dr. Kelej.

Merck Foundation in partnership with the First Lady of Ghana has alco launched Seven Children’s Storybooks: “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future”, “Sugar Free Jude”, “Mark’s Pressure” and “Ray of Hope”. These storybooks address critical social and health issues, and thousands of copies of these storybooks have been distributed to schoolchildren across Ghana.

Merck Foundation and the First Lady of Ghana also annually launch their 8 important awards for best media, film, fashion designs and songs. 127 winners of these awards from Ghana have been celebrated so far.

Together they also annually conduct the Online Merck Foundation Health Media Training Program, enabling Ghanian journalists to be equipped to be the voice of the voiceless and report responsibly and effectively on sensitive subjects including infertility, child marriage, gender-based violence, diabetes, and hypertension.

Details of the Awards:

1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

2. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026:  All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

3. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

4. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2026: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels.

Submission deadline: 30th September 2026.

5. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

6. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

7. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

8. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2026 “Diabetes & Hypertension”: All African Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Submission deadline: 30th October 2026.

Apply here: https://apo-opa.co/49GhSKb

Entries for all the awards are to be submitted via email to: submit@merck-foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

More images: https://apo-opa.co/4o8Celj

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!
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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/4wMiCqQ), X (https://apo-opa.co/4v1RMJI), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3PBIYv5), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4e22VEy), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dxugyg) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4nOWOqk).

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.

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Africa urged to strengthen space governance for global space economy participation

Source: Government of South Africa

Africa urged to strengthen space governance for global space economy participation

Africa’s meaningful participation in the rapidly expanding global space economy will depend not only on technological advancement, but also on strengthening the continent’s legal, policy, regulatory and institutional frameworks for space governance.

This was according to Nomfuneko Majaja, Chief Director of Space Affairs at the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) and Africa Regional Coordinator for the Manfred Lachs Space Law Moot Court Competition, during the 17th Africa Regional Round of the competition held at Casa Toscana Convention Centre in Pretoria.

Addressing judges, faculty advisors and students from across the continent, Majaja described the competition as a strategic investment in developing Africa’s next generation of space law and governance professionals.

“As we gather here today, we are reminded that Africa’s future in outer space governance will not only depend on technology and infrastructure, but equally on strong legal minds, sound policy frameworks, international cooperation, and visionary leadership.

“This competition therefore, represents far more than a legal exercise. It is an investment in Africa’s future leadership, diplomacy, innovation, governance, and sustainable development within the global space arena,” Majaja said on Monday. 

The annual competition, hosted under the auspices of the International Institute of Space Law (IISL), brings together university law students from South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe to argue complex hypothetical disputes before a simulated International Court of Justice.

The first day of the competition coincided with Africa Day celebrations, reinforcing the importance of continental unity and cooperation in advancing Africa’s role in global space governance.

Held under the theme: “Empowering Africa’s Future in Space Governance for Sustainable Space Activities,” the 2026 edition focuses on strengthening Africa’s legal, policy, regulatory, scientific, and institutional capacity to participate meaningfully in the global space economy.

Majaja said the theme underscores the importance of space technologies in addressing socio-economic challenges across the continent, including climate change, agriculture, disaster management, water security, communications, navigation, industrialisation, and environmental sustainability.

She noted that former participants from institutions such as the University of Pretoria, the University of Calabar, and Midlands State University are already contributing meaningfully across various segments of the space economy and governance environment.

“This demonstrates the strategic value of this competition as a long-term investment in Africa’s human capital and future leadership in outer space governance,” Majaja said.

Majaja reaffirmed the dtic’s commitment to supporting responsible and peaceful uses of outer space, strengthening Africa’s participation in international governance processes, and promoting inclusive industrial development and innovation within the sector.

The dtic hosted the competition in partnership with the South African National Space Agency (SANSA) and industry stakeholders.

Participating students will also attend the African Space Policy and Law Conference, to be hosted by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) from 28–29 May 2026, where policymakers, academics, regulators, and industry leaders will deliberate on emerging developments in international space governance and sustainable industrial development. – SAnews.gov.za

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Meth corrects misinformation regarding UIF online claims platform

Source: Government of South Africa

Meth corrects misinformation regarding UIF online claims platform

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has reassured workers and beneficiaries that no Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) applications have been lost following the closure of the legacy employee claims portal.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Department of Employment and Labour said the UIF online platform, launched on 1 April 2025, has improved access to services and accelerated claims processing.

The department said the new system replaced the legacy filing employee claims portal and allows for direct client submissions, real-time tracking of claims and automated communication throughout the claims process.

“The new platform simplifies and accelerates claims processing by enabling direct client submissions, real-time claim tracking and automated communication throughout the claim lifecycle,” the statement read.

The department added that the system also supports a self-service model, removing the need for third-party agents to assist claimants with submissions.

According to the department, the implementation of UIF Online has yielded positive results, with 4 558 971 claims successfully processed and paid by April 2026.

This compares with 4 099 522 claims processed during the same review period in 2023 and 3 547 006 claims in 2024 under the legacy filing system.

“These figures demonstrate the effectiveness of the new platform in improving access to benefits and enhancing service delivery,” the department said.

The department has also rolled out a nationwide communication and stakeholder engagement programme to raise awareness about UIF Online.

The campaign included awareness drives through media platforms, guidance and support at Labour Centres, engagements with stakeholders across all provinces and the deployment of call centre agents to assist clients with the migration to the new platform.

The department clarified that the legacy filing platform consisted of two separate components the employee claims portal and the employer portal.

It said the employee claims portal was officially closed on 20 May 2026 after the successful resolution of legal and contractual disputes linked to the old system and the completion of the required handover process.

“These legal disputes had previously prevented the UIF from decommissioning the employee claims portal,” the statement said.

The department further assured claimants that applications submitted through the old platform remain secure.

“With the closing of the employee claims portal we wish to assure clients that no applications were lost. Applications that were submitted on the filing platform have been stored in a separate database from where they are being analysed, verified against system controls and migrated into the new online platform,” the department said. 

Meanwhile, the employer portal remains operational and continues to handle employer registrations, declarations and contributions.

The department said these services are expected to migrate to UIF Online by August 2026, marking the completion of the transition from the legacy uFiling platform.

Meth also warned against the spread of misinformation relating to the UIF migration process.

“As public representatives, we have a responsibility to ensure that the information we share with the public is accurate, factual and in the interests of nation building. While constructive scrutiny is welcomed, the spread of misinformation and unverified claims can undermine public confidence and cause unnecessary panic,” Meth said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Tau visits Biovac facility

Source: Government of South Africa

Tau visits Biovac facility

Africa is increasingly becoming a producer, innovator, and strategic partner in global healthcare manufacturing, says Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau.

“The expansion of the Biovac end-to-end vaccine manufacturing facility sends a powerful signal to the world: that Africa is increasingly becoming a producer, innovator, and strategic partner in global healthcare manufacturing,” the Minister said on Monday.

The Minister was speaking at the soil-turning ceremony at the Biovac Pharma facility expansion ceremony in Cape Town. Biovac is a South African-based biopharmaceutical company established in 2003, in partnership with government, to build local vaccine manufacturing capability.

According to Tau, the expansion reflects growing confidence in South Africa’s industrial base, innovative capabilities, and long-term economic potential.

“One of the lessons from COVID-19 health and economic pandemic experience is that Africa must build stronger regional pharmaceutical, medical device, In-Device Validation, diagnostic and vaccine manufacturing capabilities to ensure greater health security, resilience, and self-reliance. Despite our challenges and high import dependence, South Africa has both the capability and the responsibility to play a leading role in this continental effort,” said Tau.

Monday’s visit formed part of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s 2026/2027 Pre-Budget Vote stakeholder engagement programme and ongoing efforts to highlight the impact of government supported industrialisation initiatives, localisation efforts, and strategic investments within priority sectors of the economy.

Furthermore, Tau said the Biovac expansion project directly advances the broader industrialisation agenda by deepening local pharmaceutical manufacturing, expanding advanced production capabilities, supporting technology transfer, strengthening innovation ecosystems and creating highly skilled employment opportunities.

“Importantly, this investment aligns strongly with the African Union’s (AU) aspirations for health sovereignty, the Partnerships for African Vaccine Manufacturing initiative, and the African Continental Free Trade Area’s (AfCFTA) objective of building regional value chains and strategic industrial capability across the continent. At its core, this project demonstrates the critical link between industrial development and public health security,” the Minister said.

Tau underscored government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for advanced manufacturing industries through localisation measures, investment support, skills development, innovation incentives, and stronger public-private collaboration.

“We welcome the strong partnership demonstrated by the European Investment Bank, the International Finance Corporation, Proparco, Industrial Development Corporation and the European Commission. We also acknowledge the impact of GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, AVMA (African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator) – a $1.2billion 10-year fund to support African vaccine manufacturers on their journey to sustainability,” he explained.

Dr Morena Makhoana, Chief Executive Officer at Biovac, said the presence of government at the sod turning ceremony is important and symbolic.

“Whilst Biovac works and is being supported by global partners either in developing new products, technology transfers, and innovative financing, there is nothing that can replace home-grown support. This moment that we celebrate with the South African government is truly important to demonstrate that the local ecosystem in South Africa led by our government is equally and truly supportive of our quest to be an end- to- end vaccine manufacturer of equal standing to our international peers, said Dr Makhoana.

The Chairperson of the European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee, David McAllister said: “I am glad to be in Cape Town today to mark Team Europe’s contribution to Biovac. Our €95 million contribution represents the largest financing package in Biovac’s history and demonstrates concretely the impact of the European Union’s (EU) Global Gateway in Africa’s health security, as well as in building resilience and reducing dependencies.”

McAllister said that beyond financing, it is about transformational impact on skilled jobs, industrial value chains, local beneficiation and EU–Africa private sector partnerships, fully aligned with South Africa’s local manufacturing ambitions.

“These developments mark a promising new phase for Biovac and for Africa’s broader vaccine manufacturing agenda,” said McAllister.

The Cape Town facility will produce vaccines for cholera, polio, pneumonia, and meningitis, with a manufacturing capacity of 30 to 40 million doses annually. It is expected to be completed by 2028 and will create over 340 skilled jobs and 7,000 indirect jobs.

The investment aligns with the African Union’s Vision 2040 goal of achieving 60% local vaccine production and supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It is a flagship project under the EU-South Africa Comprehensive Trade and Investment Partnership and an expression of the dtic’s 3D Industrial Policy. – SAnews.gov.za

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SARS refutes hacking claim

Source: Government of South Africa

SARS refutes hacking claim

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has refuted claims that it suffered a breach of its systems.

This after an alleged hacker group claimed over the weekend that it had breached the revenue service.

“SARS continuously monitors its systems for any suspicious activity and has conducted a thorough investigation in response to these reports. These claims are false and unsubstantiated.

“At this stage, there is no evidence that SARS’s systems have been compromised. SARS wishes to reassure the public regarding the integrity of its systems,” SARS said.

The tax collector emphasised that it treats the “protection of taxpayer information and the security of its digital platforms as sacrosanct and as its core responsibility”.

“This dovetails with SARS’s broader commitment to build a smart, modern institution with unquestionable integrity, and to strengthen public trust and confidence in the tax administration system.

“Members of the public are urged to verify information before sharing and not to circulate unverified claims or rely on information from unofficial sources. SARS will continue to monitor its digital environment and, where necessary, will communicate through its official platforms.

“The public is also reminded to remain vigilant against scams and phishing attempts, particularly where messages claim to be from SARS, and to consult the following link for guidance: https://www.sars.gov.za/targeting-tax-crime/scams-and-phishing/,” SARS said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Tau hosts ministerial post–budget vote media engagement

Source: Government of South Africa

Tau hosts ministerial post–budget vote media engagement

The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau, will this morning host a ministerial post–budget vote media and stakeholder roundtable in Cape Town. 

“The engagement will provide an opportunity to reflect on key budget priorities, outline programme commitments for the year ahead, and engage directly with media representatives, industry stakeholders, and partners in an informal setting,” the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition said in a statement.

The engagement will be preceded by the 2026 Budget Vote speech, which will outline the department’s key achievements during the previous financial year in the execution of its responsibilities, as well as the budget allocations to support the roll-out of the Annual Performance Plan. – SAnews.gov.za

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Morolong successfully concludes school shoes donation drive in the North West

Source: Government of South Africa

Morolong successfully concludes school shoes donation drive in the North West

Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, has successfully concluded his philanthropic school shoe donation drive at four schools in the Greater Taung Local Municipality, in the North West province. 

The handover ceremony took place on Monday at Mokgareng Secondary School as part of the school shoes donation initiative. The initiative was launched in July 2025 during the commemoration of Nelson Mandela Month.

The Deputy Minister emphasised that partnerships between business and government are essential for youth development. 

The KwaZulu-Natal International Business Association supported the donation through its partnership with Brand South Africa. 

“Sixty percent of the population in Africa is young people; that is why today we have extended a request to business to do its part, because there is a limitation to what government can do,” Morolong said.

“The education of the African child is important for the prosperity of Africa. This partnership with business is indicative of what can be done to uplift the citizens’ lives. This expresses the spirit of humanity, which is being aptly displayed today, on Africa Day,” he said.

The school shoes donation drive forms part of government’s commitment to creating a conducive and dignified learning environment for underprivileged learners, while providing support to those in need in an effort to build a nation that works for all. – SAnews.gov.za

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Transforming Healthcare and Empowering Women: Dr. Rasha Kelej Recognized Among Africa’s 100 Most Influential Women

Source: APO

Following her recent recognition as one of the 100 Most Influential Africans 2025 by New African Magazine (UK), Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of the “More Than a Mother” Campaign, has now been named among the 100 Most Influential African Women 2025 by Avance Media, for the seventh consecutive year. She is recognized alongside Africa’s highest-ranking leaders, including H.E. SAMIA SULUHU HASSAN, President of Tanzania, and H.E. NDEMUPELILA NETUMBO NANDI-NDAITWAH, President of Namibia. The recognition highlights her unwavering commitment to women empowerment, girls’ education, and the transformation of patient care across Africa.

The annual list celebrates African women whose leadership, influence, and accomplishments continue to shape decision-making at the highest levels locally and internationally.

Commenting on the recognition, Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) said, “I am deeply honored to be recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential African Women for the seventh consecutive year. It is a privilege to be named alongside Africa’s esteemed leaders, including the Presidents of Tanzania and Namibia, and so many inspiring change-makers. Congratulations to all the remarkable women recognized this year.”

“I am grateful for this recognition, which acknowledges Merck Foundation’s unwavering commitment to building healthcare capacity, transforming patient care landscape with a strong focus on women’s health, empowering infertile women in particular and women in general, and supporting girl education to help them realize their full potential. This honor further motivates us to build a lasting legacy of impact and change across Africa for generations to come.” Added Dr. Rasha Kelej, a widely respected leader across the continent, working closely with governments, First Ladies, healthcare professionals, and local communities.

Over a Decade of Transformative Leadership

Under Dr. Rasha Kelej’s leadership, Merck Foundation has launched and scaled multiple high-impact programs, including the Scholarship Program for Healthcare Providers, which is transforming the patient care landscape and improving access to quality, equitable healthcare across Africa and beyond; the landmark “More Than a Mother” movement started by her in 2015, through which she is building quality & equitable reproductive and fertility care capacity, breaking infertility stigma, and raising awareness about infertility prevention and male infertility; and the “Educating Linda” Program, which supports girls’ education across numerous African countries.

Over the past 11 years, Dr. Rasha Kelej has worked closely with more than 33 First Ladies of Africa and Asia, who are the Ambassadors of the Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign, alongside Ministries of Health, Education, Gender, Information and Communication, academia, research institutions, media, and the arts.

Transforming Patient Care, Creating a Lasting Legacy

Under her leadership, Merck Foundation has provided more than 2600 scholarships to young healthcare providers from 52 countries, in over 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Before the launch of Merck Foundation programs in 2012, many countries like The Gambia, Liberia, Sierra Leone, the Central African Republic, Guinea, Burundi, Niger, Chad, Ethiopia, Namibia etc. had either no, or very few, specialists in critical fields such as oncology, fertility and reproductive care, diabetology, respiratory medicine, and intensive care. Through the visionary leadership of Dr. Rasha Kelej, Merck Foundation has played a pivotal role in addressing these gaps and transforming healthcare capacity across these nations.

“Many of our alumni have become the first-ever specialists in their countries. Through these milestones, we are not only strengthening healthcare systems, we are truly making history,” she explained.

Empowering Women in Healthcare and STEM, and Girls in Education

Out of the 2600+ scholarships provided, nearly 1200 have been provided to female healthcare professionals, reflecting their commitment to empower women in healthcare.

Merck Foundation also announces annually the MARS Awards (Merck Africa Research Summit) to recognize and empower Best African Women Researchers and Best Young African Researchers, promoting African scientific research and women’s participation in STEM, with a special focus on women’s health and reproductive care.

Through the “Educating Linda” Program, in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, Dr. Kelej is supporting the education of more than 1500 girls by providing annual scholarships to deserving yet underprivileged schoolgirls, enabling them to complete their studies and achieve their full potential. The scholarships are provided for girls from 21 African countries, including Botswana, Burundi, Cabo Verde, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Tanzania, Togo, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, among others. Additionally, the program provides essential school supplies to thousands of schoolgirls across several African countries.

Inspiring Change Through Innovation, Art, and Creativity

Dr. Rasha Kelej’s is raising awareness about several critical social issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending child marriage and FGM, stopping gender-based violence, women empowerment and also health issues like diabetes, hypertension and cancer. She strongly believes that media, fashion and art can be strong tools to raise awareness about these pressing issues and create a culture shift.

She conceptualized, produced, directed, and hosts “Our Africa by Merck Foundation”, a unique pan-African TV program that raises awareness on health and social issues through Fashion and Art with Purpose. The program is broadcast across multiple African countries and streamed on Merck Foundation and Dr. Kelej’s social media platforms.

Believing strongly in the power of creative advocacy, Dr. Kelej has also:

  • Produced over 30 awareness songs in English, French, Portuguese, and local African languages
  • Launched 9 children’s storybooks in three languages
  • Developed 6 animated films in four languages
  • Trained over 4000 journalists across 45 countries
  • Established 8 annual awards recognizing excellence in media, fashion, film, and music for social and health impact and awareness

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of for Africa.

Social Media: 
Dr. Rasha Kelej Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/49olksx
Dr. Rasha Kelej Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/49QS1Pw
Dr. Rasha Kelej Twitter: https://apo-opa.co/4nRGV2C

For more information on Merck Foundation, please visit: www.Merck-Foundation.com

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