Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Korean Ambassador

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha | October 15, 2026

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met on Thursday with HE Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the State of Qatar Hong Jeepio.

During the meeting, the cooperative relations between the two countries were reviewed, in addition to a number of topics of common interest. 

Nzimande to explore innovation and industrialisation at East London tech park

Source: Government of South Africa

Nzimande to explore innovation and industrialisation at East London tech park

Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande will visit the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) Science and Technology Park on Friday to explore how innovation, enterprise development and technical skills can help drive South Africa’s industrialisation.

The strategic engagement will showcase the park’s role in connecting new ideas and technological advances with industry, while identifying opportunities to strengthen collaboration across government, business and the innovation sector.

“The visit will also provide the Minister with an opportunity to engage directly with the leadership of the Provincial and Local Government, the ELIDZ, innovators and entrepreneurs on the opportunities and challenges involved in translating research, technology and new ideas into commercially viable products and services,” the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation said in a statement.

Established in 2014, the ELIDZ Science and Technology Park is South Africa’s first and only science and technology park fully integrated within an Industrial Development Zone.

Through incubation, product development, specialised facilities and technology support, the park helps entrepreneurs develop their ideas and bring them to market.

It currently supports more than 71 enterprises, contributing to industrial competitiveness and economic development in the Eastern Cape.

The visit forms part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to strengthen ties with Special Economic Zones and industry, build local and regional innovation ecosystems, and advance innovation-led industrialisation.

Nzimande will be joined by the MEC for Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Nonkqubela Pieters; Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Executive Mayor, Councillor Princess Faku; and ELIDZ Board Chairperson, Ayanda Kanana. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Day 2026: Defence Leadership Reaffirms Frontline Readiness, Troop Welfare And National Security

Source: APO

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) marked KDF Day 2026 with high-level leadership engagements at Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Narok and the North Rift, reaffirming the centrality of personnel welfare, operational readiness and professional military service in safeguarding national security.

The Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, joined troops at Narok FOB, while the Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, commemorated the occasion alongside personnel deployed under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) at Chemolingot and Napeitom FOBs in Baringo County.

The engagements, held under the theme “A Soldier-Centric Approach to Enhanced National Security and Development,” underscored the Defence leadership’s commitment to supporting frontline personnel, strengthening operational effectiveness and recognising the sacrifices of those entrusted with protecting Kenya’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests.

At Narok FOB, Hon. Tuya was received by the Base Commander Wajir Air Base, Brigadier Apollo Aloka, who briefed her on the Base’s operational status and activities. She subsequently inspected key security installations, a water purification facility and the newly opened Defence Forces Welfare Services (DEFWES) supermarket, highlighting the importance of operational infrastructure and welfare facilities in sustaining mission readiness.

Addressing Officers and Service Members, the Cabinet Secretary commended their courage, discipline and professionalism, acknowledging their sacrifices in preserving national peace, security and stability.

“We honour you, we appreciate you, and we acknowledge your effort to keep our country safe,” she affirmed, reinforcing the Government’s recognition of the dedication and selfless service of KDF personnel.

Meanwhile, at Chemolingot FOB, General Kahariri paid tribute to troops conducting security operations against banditry and livestock theft in the North Rift. He commended their resilience and operational achievements, emphasising that the mission extends beyond neutralising security threats to restoring public confidence, protecting vulnerable communities and creating conditions for sustainable socioeconomic development.

“Through your efforts, you contribute directly to safeguarding our citizens, restoring security and creating conditions for communities to resume their social and economic activities. I also recognise the sacrifices made by your families, who support you through the demands and uncertainties of military service,” the CDF stated.

General Kahariri urged troops to maintain operational vigilance, discipline and unity while conducting all missions in strict adherence to the Constitution, human rights and the rule of law. He emphasised that professionalism, accountability and respect for human dignity remain fundamental to effective military operations and public trust.

The CDF further reaffirmed the Defence leadership’s commitment to strengthening personnel welfare through improved healthcare, affordable housing, the KDF Mortgage Scheme and other initiatives designed to enhance the wellbeing of Service Members and their families.

He also paid solemn tribute to fallen heroes, recognised wounded personnel and veterans, and acknowledged the resilience of military families whose sacrifices remain integral to the Defence Forces’ operational strength.

Accompanied by the Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Ketter, the CDF subsequently visited Napeitom FOB, where the leadership engagements focused on troop welfare, morale, operational coordination and sustained mission effectiveness.

The visits demonstrated a shared leadership priority: that a well-supported, disciplined and motivated force is fundamental to operational success and enduring national security.

As KDF Day 2026 honours the courage, sacrifice and service of Kenya’s military personnel, the engagements in Narok and the North Rift reaffirm the Defence Forces’ determination to protect the nation, support frontline troops and contribute to lasting peace, stability and national development.

They further reinforce the KDF institutional vision: “One Force, Mission Ready, Deeply Rooted in Professionalism.”

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

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Lesotho: The Government Urged Poultry Farmers to Align Production With Demand in Order to Improve Quality and Meet International Market Standards

Source: APO


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Poultry farmers in Teyateyaneng had been urged to align production with market demand to improve product quality, ensure a consistent supply of poultry products and sustain their businesses.
The call was made during a three-day workshop organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition for broiler and layer poultry farmers at the Teyateyaneng Resource Centre.
The workshop introduced participants to the Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion (SHEP) approach.
Addressing participants, Agricultural Assistant Mrs. Joalane Mekeleli said the SHEP approach encouraged farmers to identify markets before starting production to ensure that their products met customer requirements.
She said gaps in poultry farming practices needed to be addressed to improve production and ensure proper feeding and farm management to meet market demand.
Mrs. Mekeleli encouraged farmers to adopt uniform feeding practices and maintain a consistent supply of poultry products to sustain their businesses.
Meanwhile, Livestock Area Technical Officer Mrs. Itumeleng Lekhafola Masupha advised farmers to select suitable locations for their poultry farms, taking possible future expansion into account.
She said poultry farm sites should be free from marshy conditions and excessive moisture. Trees near poultry houses should also be avoided because they could obstruct air circulation and attract birds that might transmit diseases to chickens.
Mrs. Masupha added that farmers should choose warm locations where electricity or solar energy could be used to provide lighting and heating in poultry houses.
On poultry housing, she said farmers could determine the length of their structures according to their needs but recommended a width of 12 meters.
She explained that poultry houses should have floors that prevent water from accumulating, adequate lighting, mesh to allow proper air circulation and ceilings to prevent rainwater from dripping inside.
Essential equipment, she said, included feeders, drinkers, weighing scales, thermometers and cages for laying hens.
Mrs. Masupha said farmers could use different heating systems, including gas brooders, electric brooders, infrared heaters, coal stoves and gas heaters. However, she advised them to choose equipment that produced minimal smoke to protect the birds.
Other essential supplies included feed, medication, a book and pen for record-keeping, as well as a wheelbarrow and spade for cleaning.
Regarding chick management, Mrs. Masupha said farmers should prepare brooders measuring between 30 and 60 centimeters and provide bedding material with a depth of five to 10 centimeters.
She said sawdust or grass could be used as bedding and covered with newspapers to prevent chicks from eating the material.
Mrs. Masupha advised farmers to provide chicks with sufficient warmth until they were three weeks old, noting that additional heating might be necessary during particularly cold weather.
On hygiene, she said farmers should wash and rinse poultry houses and use disinfectants to eliminate germs.
She emphasized the importance of daily cleaning and encouraged farmers to use sanitizers and footbaths as part of routine hygiene practices to prevent the spread of diseases.
Mrs. Masupha advised farmers keeping laying hens to collect broken eggs before handling fresh ones to reduce the risk of contamination.
Farmers were further encouraged to consider customer preferences when preparing their products for sale, as some customers might prefer specific chicken portions rather than whole chickens.
Improving product quality was also highlighted as important for farmers seeking to compete in international markets.
The workshop is also expected to cover proper feeding practices and ways of engaging with different markets to understand and meet their specific requirements.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Government of Lesotho.

Ghana: Government (Gov’t) Launches Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in Ahanta West and Mpohor Fiase

Source: APO


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Government has launched the Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme (rCOMSDEP) in the Ahanta West and Mpohor Fiase areas of the Western Region, as part of efforts to formalise small-scale mining, protect the environment and ensure that mining communities benefit directly from the country’s mineral resources.

Addressing stakeholders at the launch, the Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, Hon. Yusif Sulemana emphasised that responsible mining must go beyond mineral extraction to create jobs, support local assemblies and traditional authorities, and improve the livelihoods of residents.

The Deputy Minister explained that the programme was designed to provide small-scale miners with a legitimate and organised pathway to operate responsibly.

He noted that the government was working with relevant institutions, including the Minerals Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), to register and certify mining groups and cooperatives.

Hon. Sulemana asserted that the formalisation process would provide miners with the necessary regulatory backing to operate within the law while ensuring that the initiative remains sustainable beyond changes in government.

He urged mining cooperatives to employ people from their host communities, respect traditional authorities and landowners, and ensure that the benefits of mining are shared with local residents.

Deputy Minister also stressed the importance of adopting modern mineral-processing technologies to reduce reliance on harmful chemicals such as mercury and cyanide.

“Such technologies could improve gold recovery while limiting environmental damage, particularly to rivers, farmlands and other natural resources”. He assured stakeholders that the relevant agencies would continue to monitor mining activities and support cooperatives in meeting the programme’s requirements.

The Acting National Coordinator of rCOMSDEP, Mr. Sheihu Sidiqq, in his address, acknowledged the devastating impact of illegal and irresponsible mining on Ghana’s water bodies, forests and farmlands, while recognising that small-scale mining remained an important source of livelihood for many families.

The National Coordinator called on participating cooperatives to meet the requirements for accessing concessions, comply with all regulatory obligations and uphold the highest standards of safety, transparency and environmental stewardship.

The Ahanta West and Mpohor Fiase launch marks another step in the government’s drive to formalise small-scale mining and promote environmentally responsible operations, with Nzema East in the Western Region expected to be the next area to benefit from the programme.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Republic of Ghana.

Kenya: Principal Secretary (PS) Ng’eno Pushes for Project Restructuring and Enhanced Accountability in Environment Sector

Source: APO


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The Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno, MIEK, CBS, today chaired a meeting with Heads of Departments (HODs) at the Ministry Headquarters to review the proposed restructuring of projects within the State Department and oversee the signing of Performance and Productivity Contracts (PPCs) for the Financial Year 2026/2027.

The meeting focused on strengthening institutional efficiency, eliminating duplication of project activities, improving resource allocation and enhancing accountability in the implementation of environmental and climate change programmes.

During the meeting, the Director of Central Planning and Project Monitoring Department (CPPMD), Mr. Tom Mirasi, presented the proposed project restructuring framework, outlining measures to consolidate related interventions into integrated programmes for improved coordination, resource mobilisation and measurable impact.

The restructuring follows an earlier technical engagement in Mombasa involving Heads of Departments, Project Coordinators and representatives from the National Treasury, during which existing projects were reviewed to identify overlaps, implementation gaps and opportunities for greater efficiency.

The proposed restructuring covers projects under the Multilateral Environmental Agreements Department, Climate Change Directorate and Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA), focusing on environmental governance, biodiversity conservation, chemicals and waste management, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and modernisation of meteorological services.

Under the proposed framework, six projects addressing multilateral environmental agreements would be consolidated into an Integrated Implementation of Multilateral Environmental Agreements Project, with an indicative budget of KSh 304 million. The programme would bring together interventions on sound chemicals and waste management, biodiversity protection, persistent organic pollutants and the phase-out of ozone-depleting substances.

Similarly, climate change interventions, including implementation of the National Climate Change Action Plan, reporting on Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and drought resilience initiatives, would be brought together under an Integrated Climate Change Mitigation, Adaptation and Resilience Programme, with a proposed budget of KSh 15 billion.

The restructuring also proposes a KSh 10 billion Modernisation of Meteorological Services Project to strengthen weather observation infrastructure, digital meteorological instruments, high-performance computing and weather radar surveillance systems.The proposed integrated programmes are expected to enhance coordination, improve resource mobilisation and utilisation, strengthen monitoring and evaluation, and ensure value for money in the implementation of Government priorities.

The meeting also considered the next steps in the restructuring process, including engagement with financing partners, legal review of existing financing agreements and consultations with the National Treasury on the proposed project concept notes.

Dr. Ng’eno underscored the importance of aligning the State Department’s programmes with national development priorities while ensuring that public investments deliver tangible and measurable benefits to Kenyans.
In a related development, the Principal Secretary presided over the signing of Performance and Productivity Contracts for FY 2026/2027, reaffirming the State Department’s commitment to efficient, transparent and results-oriented public service delivery.

Speaking during the signing, Dr. Ng’eno emphasized that performance contracting remains a critical accountability mechanism for improving institutional effectiveness and ensuring the achievement of agreed targets.
He noted that the contracts had been developed in accordance with the 23rd Cycle Performance and Productivity Contracting Guidelines and aligned with the Fourth Medium-Term Plan (2023–2027) of Kenya Vision 2030, the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), the Ministerial Strategic Plan, the Sustainable Development Goals and the approved annual work plan.

The Principal Secretary commended the Ministry’s performance in the FY 2024/2025 evaluation, where it ranked among the top five performing ministries nationally, attaining a composite score of 3.1061, classified as Good Performance. He challenged departmental heads to build on the achievement by ensuring strict implementation of performance targets, continuous monitoring and evaluation, timely reporting and proper documentation of results.
With the FY 2025/2026 performance evaluation scheduled for 19th October 2026, Dr. Ng’eno called for adequate preparation and evidence-based reporting to sustain and improve the Ministry’s performance.

He further emphasized the need to enhance the visibility of Government achievements through systematic documentation and dissemination of results, particularly interventions supporting the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

The meeting reaffirmed the State Department’s commitment to strengthening institutional performance, streamlining project implementation and promoting accountability in the delivery of environmental conservation and climate change programmes for sustainable national development.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Republic of Kenya.

The Nationwide Two-Week Measles and Rubella Vaccination Campaign Initiated by Lesotho Government is Gaining Momentum

Source: APO


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The Ministry of Health in Botha-Bothe is targeting approximately 39,363 children during a two-week measles and rubella (MR) vaccination campaign scheduled to run until October 23, 2026.
Botha-Bothe District Public Health Nurse, Mrs Mabusane Ratikoane, said the figure represents children enrolled in registered schools, adding that the number could increase as the campaign also targets children who are not attending school.
She explained that the campaign aims to provide measles and rubella vaccines and Vitamin A supplementation to children aged between nine months and 15 years. Meanwhile, approximately 23,208 children aged between six and 12 years are expected to receive Albendazole tablets for deworming.
“This is the approximate number of children we wish to reach with the vaccine and Vitamin A. As for the number of children who will be reached with the administration of Albendazole tablets, who are between the ages of six and 12 years, it is approximately 23,208,” she said.
Ratikoane said the campaign had been progressing well since vaccination began on Monday, although some parents still did not understand the importance of vaccination in response to the measles outbreak.
She explained that the teams had started late on the first day due to transport challenges, but operations improved on Tuesday as health workers were able to begin their activities earlier.
“Even though we started late yesterday because of transport challenges, today was different as teams started earlier, and we still believe transport will not be a challenge,” she said.
During a visit to one of the schools where the campaign was underway on Tuesday, teachers expressed concern that many children had not brought their hospital booklets. They said this made it difficult to establish whether parents had given consent for their children to be vaccinated.
The teachers indicated that further follow-ups would be conducted to determine whether there had been any miscommunication between the school and parents and to ensure that all eligible children could be reached and protected against measles and rubella.
Meanwhile, children at the school expressed excitement about receiving health services, including Vitamin A supplementation and Albendazole tablets.
The atmosphere in the classrooms was lively as learners received the tablets, chewed and swallowed them, with some eagerly opening their mouths to show nurses that they had taken their medication.
However, the mood changed when it was time for vaccination. Some children who feared needles burst into tears, prompting nurses to comfort and reassure them that the injection would cause only minimal pain.
Others appeared confident and told the nurses that they were not afraid of needles and would not cry. Some even recounted previous visits to health facilities where they had received injections without shedding tears.
Following vaccination, the nurses kept the children in their classrooms for observation to monitor their reactions before allowing them to return to their normal school activities.
The campaign is expected to continue until October 23, 2026, as the district continues to respond to the measles outbreak reported last week.
According to the information provided by the district, none of the affected children has experienced serious complications or died from the disease.
The measles and rubella vaccination campaign aims to protect children against these infectious diseases and reduce the risk of severe complications. Vitamin A supplementation is also being provided as part of the campaign, while Albendazole tablets are being administered to eligible children to treat intestinal worm infections.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Government of Lesotho.

Egypt: President El-Sisi Attends 44th Cultural Symposium of Armed Forces Marking October Victories

Source: APO

On October 14th 2026, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Republic and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, attended the 44th Cultural Symposium titled “Homeland of Heroes,” marking the 53rd anniversary of the glorious October victories, held at the Al-Safwa International Convention Center at the Egyptian Military Academy in the New Capital.

The Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, stated that upon his arrival, the President was received by Prime Minister Dr. Moustafa Madbouly, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Minister of Defense and Military Production Lieutenant General Ashraf Salem Zaher, and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Counselor Hisham Badawi, Speaker of the Senate Counselor Essam El-Din Farid, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Dr. Hussein Eissa, as well as a number of ministers and senior commanders of the Armed Forces also received the President.

The ceremony started with a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran, followed by a presentation segment titled “The Time Machine: Story of My Hero Grandfather,” which included a documentary film titled “A Journey Through Time.” The ceremony also featured a segment titled “The Role of Egyptian Diplomacy During the October 1973 War,” followed by the song “In Sound and Picture” performed with the participation of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Choir. A documentary film titled “Egypt Speaks for Itself,” was screened followed by the segment “Egypt’s Soil is Worth More Than Gold,” which concluded with a group of children presenting the President with the “Soil of the Nation” shield.

President El-Sisi then took to the stage to salute several heroes of the October War and take a commemorative photograph with them.

The ceremony also included a segment titled “The Heroes,” followed by the song “The Egyptians” with the Youth and Sports Ministry Choir, and a speech by Eng. Ziad Abdel Tawab, Digital Transformation and Information Security Expert and Member of the Supreme Council for Culture, addressing the impact of social media in spreading misconceptions and misleading society. This was followed by the operetta “Egypt: History.”

President El-Sisi also honored a number of heroes of the glorious October and delivered remarks on this occasion.

The President noted that he preferred to re-present the content of a speech he delivered years ago, emphasizing that its message remains relevant today given that no fundamental change has occurred in the nature of the challenges facing the state, which necessitates continued vigilance and caution.

The President added that Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit—drawing on his extensive political experience and as a witness to key milestones in the nation’s history—compared in his remarks the challenges that faced the Egyptian state in 1973 with those it faced in 2013. The President explained that the main challenge in 2013 was to restore the Egyptian state and safeguard its national identity following attempts to seize control of it and alter its trajectory, noting that in both cases, Egyptians and their Armed Forces stood as one to defend the nation.

The President highlighted a connection between the events of 1973 and 2013, explaining that the late President Anwar El- Sadat possessed vision and foresight and initiated an economic reform program in 1976. However, certain measures taken at the time, including price increases on specific goods, were met with opposition and demonstrations that led the state to backtrack from completing that path, despite the significant status President Sadat earned following the October Victory.

In this context, the President stressed the vital importance of preserving national awareness, warning against attempts aimed at distorting the national memory and erasing historical facts, and underscoring that nation-building is an ongoing effort. In 1977, state resources did not permit that, despite Egypt’s population at the time not exceeding 40 million.

The President noted that attempts to influence citizens’ awareness and falsify facts continue to this day, citing efforts aimed at casting doubt on the glorious October Victory or diminishing its significance through media tools and modern technologies, mainly social media.

The President emphasized that national memory constitutes any nation’s first line of defense, and that tampering with it ultimately weakens people’s capacity to perceive facts and distinguish right from wrong, causing direct harm to the future and stability of homelands.

The President added that the Egyptian state has witnessed economic reform attempts since 1976, and today continues to implement an economic reform program aimed at boosting its capacities and achieving development. The President explained that a politician had advised the late President Anwar El- Sadat to release members of religious groups from prison to counter another political current active on the Egyptian scene at the time—a step that ultimately led to President Sadat’s assassination. The President reaffirmed that ongoing attempts seek to undermine national awareness, shatter collective memory, and weaken citizens’ resolve, stressing that economic challenges can be overcome, but what matters most is preserving the state, its survival and continuity, particularly since challenges remain in the journey of nations across all stages of their development.

In this context, President El-Sisi pointed out that, in 2013, the Egyptian people viewed Field Marshal Abdel Fattah El-Sisi as a hero. The President added that, over the past fourteen years, Egypt has waged a fierce war against terrorism, during which the state incurred costs exceeding $120 billion, in addition to the sacrifices made and the martyrs offered by the sons of the nation. Nevertheless, thanks to Allah the Almighty, that battle ultimately resulted in the achievement of security and stability.

President El-Sisi emphasized that the most prominent threat that still persists lies in the attempt to target national awareness and tamper with the collective memory of the Egyptian people. The President noted that Allah the Almighty had saved Egypt and its people from the circumstances the country was facing before 2013. The President stressed the need for everyone to assume their responsibilities, each in their respective position, in order to raise public awareness and explain the dangers of attempts to undermine states from within, particularly in light of systematic campaigns targeting the Egyptian state and seeking to negatively affect its stability and cohesion.

The President also affirmed that confronting these challenges is not the responsibility of state institutions alone, but rather a joint national responsibility requiring concerted efforts by the state and society as a whole.

President El-Sisi highlighted that, during his tenure as Director of Military Intelligence, he was keen to communicate and meet with various political currents and presidential candidates, with the aim of understanding their visions and assessing their ability to address the challenges facing the Egyptian state and propose practical solutions. The President added that he used to pose numerous questions to some representatives of religious movements regarding how they intended to manage state affairs and address existing challenges, in order to assess their readiness to assume the responsibilities of governance.

President El-Sisi noted that it was difficult to imagine a person or organization governing the state while calling on citizens to stage continuous protests over a period of eighteen months. This had severely depleted the state’s resources and capabilities, including the erosion of the Central Bank’s foreign currency reserves and the decline of the tourism sector, in addition to the negative repercussions for the country’s overall economic and investment climate.

In this regard, the President recalled that Field Marshal Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, may he rest in peace, used to ask him whether power could be handed over to the Muslim Brotherhood. The President’s response at that time, during a meeting of the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, was that if the people elected them, power could be handed over to them.

President El-Sisi added that he had believed that preserving the state and ensuring the continuity of its institutions remained an absolute priority, considering that it was better for any group or current to bear the responsibility of governance in accordance with the will of the people than for the state to be exposed to the risk of loss or collapse.
The President emphasized that the most important criterion for anyone sincerely devoted to their country is the preservation and continuity of the state, regardless of who is responsible for running its affairs.

President El-Sisi mentioned that, during his tenure as Director of Military Intelligence, the US ambassador to Egypt at the time used to inquire of him regarding his expectations of who would assume power in Egypt. His assessment was that the Muslim Brotherhood would come to power. The President added that he simultaneously expected them not to remain in power for long, based on his conviction that the challenges facing the Egyptian state were greater than any political movement, president, or group, but not greater than the capabilities and determination of the Egyptian people. The President also affirmed that Field Marshal Tantawi, may he rest in peace, was a wise man.

In the same context, President El-Sisi noted that the greatest challenge facing the Egyptian state would take no more than ten years to address, at most, and that the Egyptian state faces one challenge after another. The President added that, before the 1973 war, the national duty had been to work, and the Armed Forces had worked day and night in preparation for the battle, stressing that the national duty now is work as well.
In this regard, President El-Sisi also recalled that, during a 2014 meeting with media figures Ibrahim Eissa and Lamis El Hadidy, he had emphasized that work and patience were the only options available to Egypt. The President asserted that everyone recognizes the value of hard work and that this responsibility is not limited to government officials.

Commenting on social media, President El-Sisi mentioned that Dr. Ziad Abdel Tawab had addressed the subject of psychological warfare in his remarks. He explained that psychological warfare had existed even in the 1960s and 1970s, albeit through different means, and that it would continue. He added that its objective was to undermine the will of the Egyptian people, warning Egyptians against disinformation campaigns.

President El-Sisi stated that the country has a constitution—a constitution that the people approved for the state—and declared that no one would tamper with it. The President reiterated that no one would be allowed to touch the Constitution and stressed that no one should manipulate the minds of the Egyptian people.

President El-Sisi further explained that the rumors and deliberate attempts to distort public awareness and provoke public opinion that had emerged over the preceding months formed part of efforts aimed at destabilizing the country and fomenting unrest within the Egyptian state. The President further affirmed that the responsibility of confronting these plots rests upon everyone, by raising the level of awareness and clarifying the facts to public opinion, warning that exposing the state to disturbances similar to those witnessed in 2011 would entail severe repercussions threatening its stability and ability to endure.

President El-Sisi pointed out that Allah the Almighty had protected Egypt during the critical junctures it went through in 2011 and 2013, granting its people a new opportunity to safeguard their state and restore it to its proper course. In this context, the President urged all Egyptians, youth and elders, men and women, to remain committed to their homeland, strengthen their awareness, and fortify their country against attempts to target it and conspire against it. The President also emphasized that preserving the state is everyone’s foremost national responsibility. He added: “Fortify your country against this conspiracy, I am not saying, fortify the President.”

Commenting on recent statements by an Israeli official concerning Sinai, President El-Sisi reaffirmed that Egypt had fought a war to defend its land and had recovered all its territory. The President questioned whether certain circles in Israel harbored unjustified perceptions or concerns about alleged Egyptian ambitions toward Israel. The President stressed that Egypt’s sole and ultimate goal is to preserve its security and stability and safeguard the capabilities of its people, affirming that the Egyptian state carries no hidden agendas, and that its primary priority consists of preserving its borders and national security within a framework of peace and stability.

President El-Sisi added that the peace treaty signed between Egypt and Israel constitutes the governing framework for relations between the two sides, emphasizing that Egypt has no ambitions toward any other country. The President also explained that Egypt’s support for the two-state solution stems from a steadfast vision and firm conviction that this approach represents the realistic path toward achieving a just and lasting peace in the region and establishing a respected Palestinian state alongside a respected Israeli state. The President also stressed that this is not a new proposal, but rather Egypt’s established vision for achieving stability for generations to come.

President El-Sisi further stated that Egypt seeks to de-escalate tensions in the region, find a solution to the crisis in the Gulf, and ensure security and stability for its brothers in the Gulf states. The President reiterated that the national security of the Gulf states is an integral part of Egypt’s national security, just as Egyptian national security is an extension of Gulf national security. The President reaffirmed that, on this basis, Egypt supports its brothers in the Gulf states and stands ready to do whatever is necessary to de-escalate tensions, ensure the safety of maritime navigation, and restore stability to the region.

President El-Sisi concluded his speech by addressing a message to the Egyptian people, saying: “Take care of Egypt; Take care of your country.”

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

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Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) Forecasts 20% Growth in Global Energy Demand by 2055, Calls for New Gas Investment

Source: APO

Global energy demand is projected to increase by 20% by 2055, rising from 641 exajoules (EJ) in 2024 to 768 EJ, driven by economic and population growth, according to Abubakar Abbas, Senior Energy Forecast Analyst at the Gas Exporting Countries Forum.

Speaking during the Energy Finance Forum at African Energy Week 2026 in Cape Town, Abbas said renewable energy and natural gas are expected to account for much of the anticipated growth, creating significant opportunities for investment in new gas developments and supporting infrastructure.

Natural gas is expected to play an increasingly important role in power generation, providing reliable and flexible supply as renewable energy capacity expands. According to Abbas, the share of global natural gas demand attributable to power generation is projected to increase from 35% in 2024 to 39% by 2055, while the share used for residential purposes, including heating, is expected to decline.

“LNG’s share of power generation is projected to increase from 35% currently to 39% by 2055, while its share of demand for domestic use and heating is expected to decline,” Abbas pointed out.

The growth in demand will also reshape global gas trade, with LNG expected to play a greater role in connecting producing regions with international markets. North America, Eurasia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America are expected to contribute to future supply, while demand growth is anticipated across the Middle East, Eurasia, North America and Africa over the next three decades.

Highlighting the importance of investment and financing in developing new projects, Abbas said 86% of global natural gas production by 2055 is expected to come from fields that are not currently producing, underscoring the need to accelerate exploration, resource development and project execution.

Africa alone will require an estimated $1 trillion in cumulative investment across the natural gas value chain to develop new resources and supporting infrastructure, Abbas added. This presents significant opportunities for upstream operators, infrastructure developers and financial institutions as the continent seeks to expand production, strengthen domestic supply and increase gas exports.

As global energy needs and development priorities evolve, Abbas said demand for more carbon-intensive fuels, such as coal, is expected to decline, while natural gas and renewable energy are projected to play increasingly important roles in meeting future energy requirements. This transition will also be critical to advancing global environmental and sustainability goals, including efforts to eradicate energy poverty.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Senegal Opens 104 Blocks to Investors, Targets New Upstream Contracts

Source: APO

Senegal has 104 oil and gas blocks available to investors and is seeking new upstream contracts to accelerate exploration and production, El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf, Minister of Energy and Petroleum, said at African Energy Week 2026 in Cape Town. Of the 113 blocks in Senegal’s reorganized acreage, four are under contract and five have been allocated to Eni for studies, leaving substantial opportunities for international and regional operators.

“We hope to sign a number of contracts…” he said, adding that the country aims to “show investors that Senegal remains the country it has always been: open, hospitable and respectful of international procedures.”

Senegal reorganized its upstream acreage into 113 blocks in March 2026, comprising 65 onshore and 48 offshore blocks. The country also signed an agreement with Eni to assess the oil and gas potential of five offshore blocks.

Beyond new exploration acreage, Senegal is seeking partners to develop the Yakaar-Teranga gas project alongside national oil company Petrosen. Petrosen took full control of the project after Kosmos Energy withdrew in April 2026. Minister Diouf said Yakaar-Teranga will supply gas for power generation, industrial applications including fertilizer production, and exports. Advancing the project will require a coherent development structure, credible buyers and a clear investment program.

“Our strategy is to build the value chain from the well to the factory, with gas at the heart of our industrial ambition,” he said.

Downstream, Minister Diouf pointed to a planned second refinery that will process Sangomar crude, with investment estimated at $2 billion to $3 billion. The Société Africaine de Raffinage (SAR) and Turkey’s Yamata signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the four-million-ton-per-year refinery in New York on September 23, 2026. Minister Diouf said the project opens further opportunities in storage, logistics, distribution and petrochemicals.

Minister Diouf invited investors to examine Senegal’s data, work with its technical teams and bring proposals backed by the capacity to invest and execute. He also asked partners to involve Senegalese companies and skills from the outset, with support from the national local content monitoring committee.

 “Capital must earn a return. Senegal must gain a stronger economy. The partnership we seek must serve both purposes,” he said.

According to Minister Diouf, Senegal hopes to expand the MSGBC alliance beyond its five host countries of Senegal, Mauritania, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea, but he did not specify which countries are being considered.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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