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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Rasha Kelej met Gabon First Lady to discuss the strategy to continue their joint programs to build healthcare capacity and support girl education

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany officially launched their programs in partnership with H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabonese Republic, also the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, the programs which started in 2024 with the aim to transform patient care, build healthcare capacity, break the stigma of infertility, empower women, support girl education in Gabon and the rest of Africa.

The program was chaired by The First Lady of Gabon, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, and CEO of Merck Foundation, Dr. Rasha Kelej. The program took place at the State House, Gabon.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It is a great honor to meet my dear sister, H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabon. We officially declared her as the Ambassador of the ‘Merck Foundation More Than a Mother’ campaign. We also formally launched the Merck Foundation programs in the country and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare and media capacity, patient care landscape transformation, breaking infertility stigma and supporting girl education, together in the country.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp added, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program.”

H.E. Madam ZITA OLIGUI NGUEMA, The First Lady of Gabonese Republic & Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. Together we officially launched our joint programs and also celebrated important milestones of the great success of our joint programs to build healthcare capacity, transform patientcare, break infertility stigma and support girl education. This is the first time that we are working on such impactful programs, it is history in the making. We have achieved a lot in a very short span of time, through our long-term partnership, which started in 2024.

I am very proud to share that through our partnership, we have provided 16 scholarships for our local healthcare providers who will be the future healthcare experts of Gabon, who have either graduated, undergoing or will be starting soon the Merck Foundation scholarships of training in critical and underserved specialties such as Fertility, Embryology, Oncology, Diabetes and Hypertension.”

“I am also very happy to share that together with The First Lady of Gabon, we are also supporting girl education by providing annual scholarships to support the education of 40 high-performing yet underprivileged schoolgirls, till they graduate, so that they can reach their potentials and achieve their dreams”, Dr. Rasha Kelej added.

Merck Foundation has provided more than 2600 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Out of the total 16 scholarships provided in Gabon, Merck Foundation has provided:

  • 4 scholarships for Fertility and Embryology. These were hands on practical trainings in India. The first ever embryologist of the country has been trained through the program.
  • 4 scholarships for Diabetes & Hypertension, including a special 3 months Diabetes Mastercourse in French language and Clinical Fellowship in Diabetes and Hypertension. Upon completion of the training, these specialists will have the expertise to establish dedicated clinics in hospitals and health centers, significantly enhancing the prevention and management of diabetes, hypertension, and heart diseases, bringing immense benefits to the people of Gabon.
  • 8 Scholarships for Oncology Nursing, which is very critical for cancer care.

During the launch program, the beneficiaries of the Educating Linda program were also present, where a few of them shared inspiring testimonies on how the scholarships have changed their lives.

“I really believe that when the girls are educated, their countries become more powerful, stronger & prosperous”, added Senator Kelej.  

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Gabon has 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” and “Mark’s Pressure”. These books address critical social and health issues to young children. Few copies of the storybooks were signed by The First Lady of Gabon, Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO. Thousands of copies of these storybooks will be distributed to schoolchildren.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has conducted two editions of their Online Health Media Training for the Gabonese journalists in order to empower them to raise awareness about sensitive issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, ending Child marriage and FGM and raise awareness about diabetes and hypertension prevention and early detection.

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Gabon has also announced the Call for Application for their 8 important annual Awards for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

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/4wRS2MZ

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.

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! 
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4uGEcM5
X: https://apo-opa.co/4uFEPFK
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4f9HFOi
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4dETA5u
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4dMrF3P
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/42ZKR7Z
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4fLUUVx

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/4uGEcM5), X (https://apo-opa.co/4uFEPFK), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4dETA5u), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4f9HFOi), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4dMrF3P) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/42ZKR7Z). 

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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‘Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola’ Debuts as Top 3 Amazon New Release

Source: APO


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Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola – the latest work from NJ Ayuk, widely recognized as Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.com) and one of the most influential voices on African energy policy, investment and industrial development – has emerged as a Top 3 Amazon New Release following its launch on May 20, 2026. The book offers a rigorous and deeply researched examination of Angola’s energy landscape, tracing its evolution through cycles of reform, investment and institutional change, while situating the country within the broader transformation of Africa’s hydrocarbon sector.

Within the book, Ayuk positions Angola as a compelling case study for how market-oriented reforms and policy recalibration can help address long-standing structural challenges across Africa’s oil and gas industry. He argues that sustained reform anchored in transparency, regulatory predictability and investor confidence has the potential to unlock capital inflows, strengthen institutional capacity, stimulate local enterprise development and significantly expand access to reliable and affordable energy.

Blending historical context with contemporary analysis, Crude Oil traces the development of Angola’s petroleum sector, including the legacy of governance constraints and their lasting economic implications. It also examines how recent policy shifts under national leadership are reshaping the country’s approach to resource governance across oil, natural gas, renewable energy and critical minerals, signaling a broader strategic recalibration of its energy future.

“Angola’s story is one of transformation – proof that with the right reforms, transparency and investment climate, resource-rich nations can turn potential into prosperity,” says Ayuk. “This book is about how Africa can take control of its energy future and build systems that work for its people.”

Angola’s oil sector enters 2026 at a pivotal structural moment, balancing mature offshore production with an increasingly deliberate reform and diversification agenda. Output remains anchored near the one million barrels per day mark, supported by sustained deepwater investment and targeted development designed to offset natural decline from aging fields. At the same time, the advancement of non-associated gas projects – most notably Quiluma and Maboqueiro – signals a strategic shift toward a more integrated, gas-inclusive energy system. While crude oil continues to underpin fiscal stability, policymakers are placing growing emphasis on downstream expansion, improved investment competitiveness and broader economic diversification to reduce long-term exposure to hydrocarbon volatility.

Crude Oil: Power, Turnaround and Transformation in Angola is now available for purchase. Buy the book on Amazon (https://apo-opa.co/4vekw1I)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Steenhuisen calls for acceleration of regional fertiliser reforms and disease control

Source: Government of South Africa

Steenhuisen calls for acceleration of regional fertiliser reforms and disease control

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has called on Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States to urgently accelerate regional cooperation on food security, fertiliser regulation, and animal disease control amid mounting economic and climate pressures across the region.

Addressing the SADC Joint Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Agriculture, Food Security, Fisheries and Aquaculture in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, on Friday, 29 May 2026, Steenhuisen warned that fragmented agricultural systems and delayed reforms were increasing the vulnerability of Southern African countries to global shocks.

The Minister noted that the meeting took place during a period of considerable geopolitical and economic volatility.

“Across the world, we are seeing disruptions to supply chains, rising input costs — particularly fertiliser prices — inflationary pressures, and growing competition over strategic resources. These global shocks are increasingly intersecting with climate-related disasters, including droughts, floods and disease outbreaks in ways that directly affect African agriculture and food systems,” Steenhuisen said.

Although regional assessments indicate some improvement in cereal production following last season’s severe drought, Steenhuisen said an estimated 58 million people across Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States still face acute food insecurity due to issues around access and affordability.

“This reality demands urgency from all of us,” he said.

The three-day meeting, which started on 27 May 2026, is aimed at discussing regional issues to advance food and nutrition security, and the blue economy in the SADC region.

Steenhuisen was chairing the meeting, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the Joint Committee of SADC Ministers of Agriculture and Food Security, Fisheries and Aquaculture.

Steenhuisen emphasised that Harmonisation of the Fertiliser Regulatory Framework across SADC can no longer be delayed.

“We cannot continue entering each planting season fragmented by unharmonised standards, duplicative registration systems and regulatory bottlenecks that unnecessarily increase costs for farmers and slow regional trade,” he said.

Steenhuisen urged Member States to fast-track the proposed Memorandum of Understanding on the Harmonisation of Fertiliser Regulatory Frameworks.

“The proposed Memorandum of Understanding on the Harmonisation of Fertiliser Regulatory Frameworks is urgently needed and, in South Africa’s view, should be fast-tracked well before 2027. This is not simply a technical regulatory exercise, it is a food security imperative, a productivity imperative and increasingly a strategic resilience imperative for the entire region,” Steenhuisen said.

FMD posed major threat to livestock production

The Minister also warned that Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks across Southern Africa posed a major threat to livestock production, rural livelihoods, trade and regional food systems.

According to Steenhuisen, 11 SADC member states have reported outbreaks.

“The scale of the current FMD outbreaks across Southern Africa should concern every one of us. For many families across our region, livestock are not simply commercial assets. They are stores of wealth, sources of nutrition, draft power, school fees and household survival.

“When animal disease spreads unchecked, the impact reaches far beyond the farm gate. It affects food affordability, market access, export earnings and economic stability across the entire region,” the Minister said.

Steenhuisen said South Africa supported the development of a regional coordination framework for FMD control, including stronger surveillance systems, harmonised movement controls, improved information sharing and coordinated vaccination efforts.

He also supported proposals for the establishment of a SADC regional FMD vaccine bank, saying preparedness would be less costly than prolonged outbreaks and delayed responses.

“Animal diseases do not respect borders. A weakness in one part of the region quickly becomes a vulnerability for all of us,” he said.

The Minister further called for a stronger “One Health” approach that integrates animal health, human health, ecosystems and food systems into regional disease management strategies.

Steenhuisen said the broader transformation of African agriculture under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and the Kampala Declaration must move beyond “reporting exercises” and focus on practical delivery.

“For SADC, this means moving beyond fragmented implementation towards practical regional delivery,” he said, citing the need for expanded agricultural trade, climate resilience, modernised sanitary and phytosanitary systems, irrigation investment and greater opportunities for women and young people.”

Steenhuisen reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to working with SADC member states, regional institutions and international partners to strengthen agricultural resilience and food security across Southern Africa. – SAnews.gov.za

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Constitutional promises kept as communities receive title deeds

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitutional promises kept as communities receive title deeds

In a major stride towards correcting historical injustices, government has officially handed over title deeds to the Gaesegwe, Barolong ba ga Rapulana, Barolong ba ga Phoi and Barolong ba ga Seitshiro communities at the Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality in the North West province.

The day – billed as a “day of celebration” by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who presided over the ceremony – marks a milestone in government’s efforts to accelerate land reform.

“We are celebrating because the dignity of communities is restored. For many of you, this day has been a long time coming. Today is the culmination of a struggle for land that has become a reality.

“When Chief Gaesegwe Henry Phoi submitted his community’s land claim on 9 July 1996, he was acting on a constitutional promise this country had just made to itself,” the President said on Friday.

South Africa’s Constitution guarantees that any person or community dispossessed of land after 19 June 1913 is entitled to restitution or equitable redress.

The apartheid government’s 1913 Natives Land Act stripped millions of black South Africans of their land, assets, livelihoods and communities, with the effects of that brutal law still visible across the country today.

“Our Constitution, which was adopted 30 years ago, says that any person or community dispossessed of land after 19 June 1913 is entitled to restitution of that property or equitable redress.

“So, when I hand over these title deeds today, I am fulfilling a Constitutional responsibility,” President Ramaphosa said.

More than 368 title deeds were handed over to families, transitioning their occupational rights into secure, formal ownership.

Furthermore, some 20 local farmers who previously leased state land received full freehold titles, effectively elevating them from tenants to commercial landowners.

Additionally, the President handed over title deeds to three Communal Property Associations who represent communities who were brutally removed from their land by force and have “spent decades working through the legal and administrative processes to get it back”.

“A title deed in a drawer does not on its own transform a family or a community’s fortunes. A farm with no equipment, no water, no capital and no support will not meet people’s needs. It does not close the inequality gap and it does not build the rural economy we need. The title deed is the foundation on which we must build.

“That is why we are handing over productive assets and confirming that post-settlement support is in place. We are committed to making these farms work.

“We are committed to ensuring that the townships being established at Setlagole and Madibogo have the sites they need for businesses, community facilities and government services,” the President said.

The President assured those that are still waiting for their Constitutional promise to be fulfilled that “we have not forgotten you”.

“In 1913, the Natives Land Act took from our people what they had built over generations. In 1996, the democratic Constitution gave a clear instruction to return the land to individuals and communities.

“Today, we are using the laws and institutions of our democracy to restore what was taken.

“We are not only correcting a historical injustice. We are building a fairer, more sustainable and more prosperous future for these communities. And in doing so, we are building a better country for all,” President Ramaphosa concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Government approves R179.6 million for spaza shop support

Source: Government of South Africa

Government approves R179.6 million for spaza shop support

Despite compliance challenges among applicants to the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund, government has approved R179.6 million in funding to support shop owners across all nine provinces. 

The fund, aimed at increasing the participation of South African-owned spaza shops in the townships and rural areas retail trade sector, was launched last year by the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD) and the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic). 

The Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) has approved 1,316 applications valued at R79.6 million, while the National Empowerment Fund has approved 1,053 enterprises valued at R99.9 million. 

The programme is being implemented through the Small Enterprise Development and Finance Agency (SEDFA) and the National Empowerment Fund (NEF).

“Since implementation, the Fund has continued to gain traction, reflecting the scale of demand for the fund. To date, 4,522 complete applications have been received nationally, of which 4,240 have been assessed,” Department of Small Business Development Director-General Thulisile Manzini said on Friday at a media briefing in Pretoria.

Manzini added that the assessment process continues to highlight a key structural constraint within the sector, with only 58% of applicants linked to valid business licences or temporary permits issued by municipalities. 

“As a result, a significant number of applications remain unable to progress until licensing and compliance requirements have been addressed.

“As part of ensuring the integrity of the programme, site visits and verification processes have identified 354 applications that could not proceed due to non-compliance, including non-existent businesses, ownership discrepancies, and inconsistencies between applicants and operators,” she said.

A total of 2 369 businesses have been approved for support through the Fund. 

“For applications that have completed the verification and compliance process and meet all programme requirements, approval rates remain at 100%, demonstrating government’s commitment to supporting qualifying South African-owned spaza shops,” she said.

The approved support includes stock purchases, point-of-sale devices, infrastructure upgrades, inventory support, business improvements, and non-financial business development support designed to improve sustainability and competitiveness within the township and rural retail sector.

“The Fund has also contributed meaningfully towards government’s transformation objectives, with 43% of approved enterprises being women-owned businesses, 18% youth-owned businesses, and 2% businesses owned by persons with disabilities. 

“This demonstrates the Fund’s contribution towards broadening economic participation and supporting greater inclusion within township and rural economies,” Manzini said.

Beyond financial support, the Fund is designed to drive long-term sustainability. 

SEDFA and the NEF continue to provide targeted business development support, including training and compliance assistance. 

This covers areas such as business and financial management, point-of-sale systems training, digital literacy, credit management, regulatory compliance, and business formalisation support.

In addition, the implementing agencies will once again embark on a nationwide outreach and awareness programme from June 2026 to encourage more qualifying spaza shop owners to apply and to assist enterprises requiring compliance support.

“The Spaza Shop Support Fund forms part of government’s broader commitment to strengthening township economies, supporting informal businesses, creating employment opportunities, and expanding economic participation within local communities. 

“Through targeted support for women, young entrepreneurs and other designated groups, the Fund contributes to building a more inclusive and representative economy while advancing the objectives of economic transformation and localisation,” she said.

Manzini stressed that the Fund supports South African-owned spaza shops, with strict verification measures in place to prevent fronting and abuse. 

“Only applicants who meet ownership, compliance and operational requirements, and who possess valid trading permits or licences, are approved. The due diligence processes applied to the programme are specifically designed to identify and mitigate risks such as fronting,” she added. –SAnews.gov.za

 

 

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Funding drive for Western Cape recovery and rebuilding effort

Source: Government of South Africa

Funding drive for Western Cape recovery and rebuilding effort

Western Cape Finance MEC Deidré Baartman says the provincial government will work closely with municipalities and national government to mobilise funding for the massive recovery and rebuilding effort following severe weather that devastated parts of the province earlier this month. 

Baartman was speaking after the conclusion of a four-day assessment of some of the Western Cape’s hardest-hit areas, where provincial MECs joined Premier Alan Winde to inspect damage to infrastructure and communities.

“The extent of the damage to infrastructure and communities is significant, and the recovery process will require a coordinated response across all spheres of government. It will require every stakeholder to come to the table,” Baartman said.

The assessment visits formed part of the provincial government’s ongoing response to widespread flooding, storm damage and infrastructure disruption, which affected several districts across the province.

More resilient infrastructure planning needed

Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, Anton Bredell, said the recent storms underscored the growing impact of climate change and the need for more resilient infrastructure planning.

“While severe winter weather has always formed part of our regional climate, the growing intensity and frequency of these events are increasingly consistent with the global scientific consensus on climate change and the heightened risks associated with a warming planet. Witnessing the destruction across our province from these last storm events, the need for climate resilient planning and construction was made very clear,” Bredell said.

He added that municipalities needed adequate capacity and governance systems to respond effectively to climate-related disasters.

“It is also very clear that only well-run and well capacitated municipalities can rise to the occasion to address these challenges.”

Health and Wellness MEC Mireille Wenger commended healthcare workers, non-governmental organisations, and local communities for ensuring critical services continued during the severe weather conditions.

“In times of crisis, the humanity of our communities shines through and puts on display the very best of the Western Cape. Healthcare workers, NGOs, community organisations, and residents all came together to help keep services running and support one another during the severe weather conditions.

“Healthcare is a team effort, and we truly could not have done it without the support, compassion and resilience shown by so many people across our province,” Wenger said.

Education MEC David Maynier commended school principals, including teachers, staff, and parents, for their excellent response to the severe storms.

“With teaching and learning back up and running, the focus will shift to ensuring that learners can catch up the work missed during school closures,” Maynier said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC) Chief Ominga to Speak at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 as Congo Accelerates Gas Expansion

Source: APO


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The African Energy chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) held high-level meetings in Brazzaville on May 18 with the Republic of Congo’s Ministry of Hydrocarbons and the Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), reinforcing a renewed push to accelerate investment, expand LNG infrastructure and strengthen local operational capacity. Discussions centered on positioning Congo as a premier regional gas hub while transforming SNPC into a more active upstream operator with broader international ambitions.

Against this backdrop, SNPC Director General Maixent Raoul Ominga has been confirmed as a speaker at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, taking place in Cape Town from October 12–16. His participation comes at a pivotal moment for Congo’s hydrocarbons sector as SNPC advances major gas monetization projects, upstream expansion plans and corporate restructuring aimed at attracting international capital and strategic partnerships.

Under Ominga’s leadership, SNPC has accelerated its transformation from a passive state asset holder into a more operationally focused national oil company. A late-2025 presidential decree expanded and consolidated SNPC’s strategic role within Congo’s energy sector. The company has also launched a five-year digital modernization program designed to improve transparency, auditing and financial oversight.

Operationally, SNPC is expanding aggressively across both upstream oil and gas developments. The company launched a $158 million drilling bond to support onshore campaigns and has assumed operatorship of strategic assets including the Kouakouala field. Ongoing investments across the Nanga I, Zingali II and Le Mayombe II permits are expected to support production growth while helping offset declines at major fields.

https://apo-opa.co/4uGpGnz

Gas monetization remains central to SNPC’s long-term strategy, with Congo LNG delivering its first export cargo to Italy through the Tango FLNG facility. Meanwhile a second FLNG unit is under development to raise national LNG capacity to around 3 million tons per annum. At Banga Kayo, SNPC and partner Wing Wah are advancing flare-reduction projects that convert associated gas into LPG, propane and butane for domestic markets.

The company is also strengthening offshore partnerships to unlock new reserves. Recent agreements with TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy on the Enzombo deepwater block aim to expand exploration activity offshore Pointe-Noire. Separately, TotalEnergies recently confirmed a hydrocarbon discovery at the Moho license, where recoverable resources across the Moho G and Moho F structures are estimated at close to 100 million barrels.

“Ominga’s participation at African Energy Week 2026 comes at a defining moment for Congo’s energy sector as SNPC accelerates its transformation into a stronger, more operationally driven national oil company. AEW will provide a critical platform for SNPC to engage directly with investors, operators and policymakers on the next phase of Congo’s growth strategy,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

SNPC is targeting longer-term production growth toward 500,000 barrels per day while pursuing new licensing rounds, refinery modernization through its SOCAR partnership and additional FLNG developments designed to position Congo among Africa’s premier gas economies.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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South Africa: Deputy President Mashatile arrives in India for a Working Visit

Source: APO


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His Excellency, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile, has on Friday, 29 May 2026, arrived in the Capital of India, New Delhi, on a Working Visit.

The Working Visit is scheduled for 29 May to 03 June 2026.

South Africa and India have a longstanding relationship grounded in shared history, cultural relations, and a mutual vision rooted in non-alignment, aiming to advance the Global South through South-South partnerships.

Both South Africa and India are represented in many multilateral formations that promote this commitment to the development of the Global South, including membership to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), BRICS, IBSA, G20 and IORA.

The visit aims to reaffirm the South African Government’s commitment to its relationship with India, emphasising historical and cultural ties. The visit will highlight the importance of India’s role in global affairs and its contributions to the African Agenda, advocating for India as a key investment partner. 

Additionally, the visit seeks to strengthen cooperation in multilateral forums such as the UN, BRICS, and G20, enhancing collaboration in trade, investment, research, technology transfer, and support for small enterprises.

Deputy President Mashatile, the second Deputy President to visit India, is expected to engage with Indian business leaders and investors through a high-level Roundtable Discussion aimed at encouraging greater investment flows and economic collaboration between the two countries. 

The visit will advance bilateral cooperation in key sectors including trade, investment, healthcare, science and technology, digital innovation, and small business development.

Deputy President expressed his confidence that these high-level deliberations will further cultivate the strategic synergy between the two countries.

“The visit to India aims to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and India, building on a foundation of solidarity and shared developmental priorities. The focus is on promoting South Africa as a competitive investment destination to encourage Indian investments in key sectors, enhancing trade partnerships and supporting job creation and inclusive economic growth through investment-led partnership.”
 
As part of his Working Visit, Deputy President Mashatile will engage on a Bilateral Meeting with Vice President C.P Radhakrishnan, and pay a courtesy call on Her Excellency Mrs Smt. Droupadi Murmu, President of the Republic of India. 

Deputy President Mashatile is accompanied by Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi; Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni; Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Thandi Moraka; Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Nomalungelo Gina; and Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

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Seychelles: President Visits Key Development Sites on Coetivy Island

Source: APO


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Yesterday, the President of the Republic, alongside the Minister for Transport, Ms Veronique Laporte, and the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mrs Amanda Bernstein, undertook an official visit to Coetivy Island to tour important development sites and ongoing projects contributing to the island’s economic activities and future development.

Also present during the visit were the Chief Executive Officer of the Islands Development Company (IDC), Mr Christian Lionnet, CEO of Air Seychelles Mr Sandy Benoiton andChairman of IDC Mr Didier Dogley.

During the visit, the delegation toured the Coetivy prawn farm located in the central part of the island. The visit provided an opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the farm’s operations and the progress being made within Seychelles’ aquaculture sector. Discussions focused on sustainable aquaculture, food security, and the sector’s contribution to the diversification of the national economy.

The President and delegation later visited the prawn processing factory, where the production and processing of prawns are carried out. Officials were briefed on the facility’s operations, production processes, and its role in supporting local seafood production and value-added export opportunities.

Later in the day, the delegation also visited the charcoal production site on the island, highlighting ongoing efforts aimed at utilising local resources and supporting productive economic activities on Coetivy.

Most notably, the President, together with the ministers and delegation, visited the proposed location for a new airstrip on the island. Discussions surrounding the proposed development focused on improving accessibility, strengthening logistical operations, and supporting future economic and infrastructural development on Coetivy Island for the overall benefit of Seychelles.

The visit reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting sustainable and strategic development initiatives that contribute to economic growth, food production, infrastructure enhancement, and national resilience, while ensuring that development on the island remains aligned with Seychelles’ long-term vision for sustainable progress

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Accelerating regional action to advance mental health care in Africa

Source: APO


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Mental health experts, policymakers, civil society organizations and partners from more than twenty African countries, meeting for the first-ever mental health intercountry meeting, have called for stronger, coordinated action to close critical gaps in mental health services in the region.

Organized by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, with support from the Wellcome Trust, the meeting highlighted critical gaps in mental health systems and the challenges that limit access to mental health services. Participating countries committed to strengthening integrated, people-centred care, while aligning national priorities with regional and global targets.

Close to 150 million people in Africa are living with mental health, neurological and substance use related conditions, with limited access to integrated care. Despite growing recognition of mental health as a public health priority, services remain under-resourced, fragmented and often inaccessible, particularly in rural and underserved settings. Currently, only seven countries have implemented comprehensive mental health services at the primary health care level, and just 16 have dedicated mental health budget lines. Government spending averages less than US$0.07 per capita in the Region, far below what is required to meet rising needs and build resilient systems.

The mental health intercountry meeting, which concluded today for East and Southern African countries, provided a collaborative platform for countries to assess progress, identify challenges and realign national strategies with regional and global priorities in the bid to strengthen mental health systems and advance mental health care, accelerating progress towards the 2030 regional mental health targets. It also represents an important milestone in regional preparations for the 7th Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit scheduled for early 2027.

“African countries continue to face an immense burden from mental health conditions,” said Dr Benido Impouma, Director of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control, WHO African Region. “We must invest in mental health with sustained resources. With the support of partners, WHO is committed to advancing the regional mental health strategy and ensuring that people living with mental health conditions receive the care and dignity they deserve.

Participants reflected on ways to strengthen mental health information systems, integrate mental health into primary health care, expand community-based services and enhance multisectoral collaboration.

“When mental health needs are neglected, health outcomes worsen, treatment adherence declines, disability increases and families and communities suffer. This is why the World Health Organization has consistently reminded us that there is no health without mental health. South Africa remains committed to strengthening mental health services as an integral component of universal health coverage through primary health care. Our policies and legislation promote the integration of mental health services within general health care services at community, primary health care facility and hospital levels’, said South African Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi.

Minister Motsoaledi added that strengthening mental health systems in the region requires a coordinated approach that centers people, evidence and community involvement.

Based on the rapid mental health landscape analyses developed by countries prior to the meeting, participants began drafting national mental health roadmaps outlining priority actions toward the 2030 targets as part of meeting procedures. These roadmaps will guide efforts to expand access to care, improve the availability of essential medicines, enhance suicide prevention and strengthen preparedness for mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) in emergencies.

Experts at the meeting also built momentum around fighting discrimination and stigma and working meaningfully with people with lived experience, through shared experiences and peer learning, countries identified common challenges, exchanged innovative practices and explored new opportunities to strengthen national and regional coordination — key steps in building more resilient and equitable mental health systems.

“In mental health, our ambition is simple: to support earlier and equitable access to effective care, guided by science and shaped by local context,” said Paul Spencer Head of Mental Health Policy at Wellcome Trust. “We are committed to working in partnership with governments and institutions across Africa toward common goals, such as those set out in the regional framework.

The next intercountry meeting, focusing on West and Central African countries, will take place from 15-18 July 2026 in Lome, Togo, continuing the momentum and expanding regional collaboration.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – South Africa.