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May 8, 2026

Qatar Urges Diplomacy and Collective Security at Italy Forum on EU-GCC Relations

Source: Government of Qatar

Milan, May 8, 2026

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr Majed Mohammed Al Ansari has called for greater international cooperation and renewed diplomatic engagement to address growing regional and global instability.

Speaking at a session in Milan titled “Bridging Stability: EU-GCC Cooperation in an Era of Fragmentation”, Dr Al Ansari said ongoing conflicts and geopolitical crises were placing increasing pressure on global stability and decision-making processes.

The event was organized by the Doha Forum and MED Dialogues in partnership with the Italian Institute for International Political Studies (ISPI) and the Center for International Policy Research (CIPR).

Dr Al Ansari warned that some actors were seeking to promote political narratives and approaches aimed at advancing their strategic interests amid intensifying competition for influence and shifting global power balances.
He stressed that political and military pressure did not necessarily lead to sustainable solutions or long-term stability, underlining the importance of mediation and diplomacy in resolving conflicts.

Questioning the effectiveness of diplomacy, he said, reflected “a growing need for it rather than the opposite”.
The Qatari official also urged countries to continue working through dialogue and diplomatic channels to prevent further escalation and avoid deeper cycles of conflict.

He said the current war had affected international relations, including ties between Europe, the United States and countries in the Middle East, with wider consequences for energy security, the global economy, supply chains and international alliances.

Dr Al Ansari added that security and stability could no longer be achieved by individual states acting alone, but instead required collective cooperation and broader international coordination.

Concluding his remarks, he highlighted the growing interconnectedness between nations and the political, economic and security impact of current crises, calling for a shared vision to confront rapidly evolving regional and international challenges.

May 8, 2026

Rhino Resources Joins African Energy Week (AEW) as Gold Sponsor as Southern African Exploration Expands

Source: APO

Exploration company Rhino Resources has joined the African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Conference and Exhibition as a Gold Sponsor, reinforcing its role as one of Africa’s emerging independents driving frontier and greenfield exploration across Southern Africa.

Scheduled for October 12–16 in Cape Town, AEW 2026 comes as Rhino Resources accelerates exploration activity across Namibia’s Orange Basin while broadening its footprint into South Africa’s Karoo Basin. The sponsorship reflects the company’s strategy to deepen engagement with investors, service providers and policymakers as it advances multiple assets toward development readiness and future final investment decisions.

At the core of Rhino Resources’ upstream momentum is its multi-well deepwater drilling campaign in Namibia’s Orange Basin – one of the world’s most prolific frontier exploration hotspots. The company is targeting FIDs between late 2026 and early 2027 across operated and partner-led assets, including the co-development of the Volans and Capricornus discoveries in Petroleum Exploration License (PEL) 85.

Recent drilling results have strengthened the commercial case of these Namibian assets. The Volans-1X well delivered strong gas-condensate flow rates in February 2026, while the earlier Capricornus-1X well confirmed the presence of light oil, positioning Rhino Resources among the key players contributing to Namibia’s ambition of achieving first oil production by 2030.

Beyond Namibia, Rhino Resources is broadening its portfolio through onshore exploration in South Africa’s Karoo Basin. The company is advancing a six-well campaign targeting helium, methane and hydrogen resources in the Free State Province – a move that reflects both geographic diversification and a wider strategy to support a more resilient and diversified regional energy mix.

This expansion comes at a time when Southern African economies face energy security challenges due to ongoing disruptions to global shipping routes, reinforcing the importance of unlocking domestic resource potential to support industrial growth and reduce external vulnerabilities.

Rhino Resources’ role as Gold Sponsor at AEW 2026 therefore comes at a pivotal stage in its growth trajectory. The event provides a platform to showcase its exploration progress, strengthen partnerships and position its projects within the broader African energy investment landscape.

At AEW 2026, Rhino Resources’ executives are expected to participate in high-level panel discussions, offering insights into frontier basin development, cost-efficient exploration strategies and pathways to fast-tracking project commercialization across emerging African markets.

“Rhino Resources represents a new generation of African-focused independents that are willing to take on frontier risk to unlock long-term energy value,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “The company’s recent discoveries in Namibia and expanding exploration strategy in South Africa highlight the scale of opportunity across the continent and the critical role independents play in translating resources into production, investment and economic growth.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

May 8, 2026

Levene Energy Joins African Energy Week (AEW) as Gold Sponsor Amid Regional Expansion and Market Diversification

Source: APO

Nigerian integrated energy company Levene Energy has joined the African Energy Week (AEW) Conference and Exhibition as a Gold Sponsor, reinforcing its position as an emerging pan-African energy platform focused on infrastructure expansion, energy access and long-term market diversification.

Taking place October 12–16 in Cape Town, AEW 2026 comes as Levene Energy accelerates its transition from a project-focused developer into a long-term energy infrastructure investor with interests spanning upstream, midstream, downstream and renewable energy segments.

A key milestone of this strategy was reached in January 2026 when the company secured a $64 million facility from the African Export-Import Bank to acquire a 30% stake in Axxela Limited. The transaction marks the company’s entry into Nigeria’s regulated gas infrastructure space, strengthening its position in gas processing, distribution and industrial energy supply.

The investment also aligns with Nigeria’s Decade of Gas initiative, which seeks to monetize the country’s estimated 600 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves while expanding energy access, supporting industrialization and improving access to cleaner cooking solutions nationwide.

Beyond gas infrastructure, Levene Energy continues to strengthen its upstream portfolio. The company holds interests in multiple producing and exploration assets in Equatorial Guinea, including Blocks EG-03, EG-04, EG-19 and Block P, alongside bitumen assets in Nigeria. This upstream footprint supports a broader strategy to increase resource development and supply in response to rising regional demand for hydrocarbons.

At the same time, the company is advancing its renewable energy business as part of a diversified energy mix strategy. Through its subsidiary LPV Technologies, Levene Energy operates a 200 MW solar panel manufacturing facility in Lagos, supporting both rural electrification initiatives and commercial and industrial adoption of solar power. The focus on distributed energy solutions and local manufacturing reflects Levene Energy’s growing emphasis on energy access, grid resilience and local value creation.

“Africa’s energy future depends on building integrated, locally anchored energy systems that can withstand global volatility while delivering reliable and affordable power,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Levene Energy’s expansion across gas, renewables and infrastructure reflect the kind of long-term, value-driven strategy needed to unlock the continent’s full energy potential.”

The company’s participation at AEW 2026 builds on its recognition as a Local Content Champion at AEW 2025, highlighting its commitment to local capacity building, inclusive growth and the development of African-led energy solutions. AEW 2026 provides a platform for the company to engage with policymakers, investors and industry stakeholders to forge new partnerships and advance its regional expansion strategy across Africa’s evolving energy landscape.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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May 8, 2026

Gas Supply in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (AI): Can Africa’s Natural Gas Power the Continent’s Digital Future?

Source: APO

As artificial intelligence (AI) drives an unprecedented surge in data processing, one constraint is becoming increasingly clear: power. Data centers – the backbone of AI – require vast, stable and continuous energy supply. For Africa, this challenge intersects with an opportunity. The continent’s abundant natural gas resources could position it as a future hub for AI infrastructure – if supply can be effectively mobilized.

Africa holds over 600 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves, representing a significant share of global supply. Yet despite this abundance, the continent consumes only a fraction domestically, with much of production historically geared toward exports.

At the same time, Africa’s digital infrastructure remains underdeveloped. The continent accounts for just 0.6% of global data center capacity – despite representing nearly 20% of the world’s population. Total installed capacity stands at roughly 1.2 GW across active, planned and pipeline projects, with only about 360 MW currently operational.

Demand, however, is accelerating rapidly. Africa’s data center needs are expected to increase 3.5 to 5.5 times by 2030, requiring up to $10–20 billion in investment. Power demand is rising in parallel, growing at 20–25% annually and projected to reach 8,000 GWh in the coming years.

This is where natural gas becomes critical. Unlike intermittent renewables, gas-fired power offers dispatchable, baseload energy – making it particularly suited to the always-on requirements of data centers. Globally, data centers already consume around 1.5% of total electricity, with demand growing at roughly 12% annually, far outpacing overall electricity consumption. In emerging markets, where grid reliability is inconsistent, this reliability advantage becomes even more important.

Major gas projects across Africa underscore the scale of potential supply. Mozambique’s offshore developments – among the largest globally – are expected to produce over 13 million tons per year of LNG, while Nigeria continues expanding its gas monetization strategy around its 200+ trillion cubic feet of reserves. Meanwhile, new producers such as Senegal and Mauritania are entering the market with large-scale LNG developments.

The opportunity is not simply about exporting gas, but about using it domestically to power industrialization and digital infrastructure. Today, Africa exports energy while still facing chronic power shortages, creating a disconnect between resource wealth and economic development.

Bridging this gap could redefine the continent’s trajectory. Gas-to-power projects, integrated with data center development, offer a pathway to anchor digital infrastructure in energy-rich regions. Countries such as Nigeria, Egypt and Algeria are particularly well positioned, while emerging producers like Mozambique and Senegal could embed domestic supply into new industrial and digital hubs from the outset.

This convergence is now moving to the forefront of industry discussions. At African Energy Week 2026, the AI and Data Center Track will focus on how power – particularly natural gas – can underpin the continent’s digital expansion. As AI infrastructure scales, the track highlights a central reality: without reliable, scalable energy, Africa risks missing out on the next wave of global digital investment.

“This is not just an energy discussion – it’s an economic strategy,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “AI data centers require constant, reliable power at scale, and natural gas is the only resource Africa has today that can deliver that immediately. If we align gas development with digital infrastructure, we can industrialize, create jobs and position Africa as a serious player in the global AI economy.”

Still, challenges remain. Infrastructure gaps, pricing constraints and regulatory uncertainty continue to limit domestic gas utilization. Without coordinated investment in pipelines, power plants and digital infrastructure, the continent risks continuing its role as an energy exporter while importing digital services.

As AI drives a new wave of energy demand, natural gas is emerging as a critical enabler of digital infrastructure. For Africa, the challenge – and opportunity – is to turn that advantage into global competitiveness.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

May 8, 2026

Birds of prey in South Africa are in trouble – a study analyses data from 16 years of road counts

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Santiago Zuluaga Castañeda, JdlC Researcher, Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC)

Birds of prey and vultures (raptors) play a vital role in ecosystems, both as top predators and key scavengers. However, compared to many other bird species, raptor populations are declining faster. This is because they need large areas to live in, have low population densities, and reproduce slowly. For these reasons they are vulnerable to human impacts like farming with pesticides, electrocution, collision with wind turbines, or poaching.

In many cases, by the time scientists and conservationists fully understand how bad the declines are, it may be too late to act. Thus, having good population monitoring is vital to act as an early warning system of declines. Many countries in the global south host important populations of raptors but lack effective monitoring programmes.

Africa is an important continent for raptor diversity. Several studies across Africa have used road counts (counting birds from repeated transects across routes) to monitor how raptor populations have changed over time. A recent study went one step further, combining trends from these different surveys from across Africa to better understand these changes at a pan-African scale. Unfortunately, no data from South Africa were available to be incorporated into this analysis.

Monitoring on the road.

In our recent study we took advantage of data that was collected by one dedicated fieldworker, Ronelle Visagie, who drove nearly 400,000 km (the distance from Earth to the moon) across the central area of South Africa (see map) between 2009 and 2025, while she worked for the Birds of Prey Programme of the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

Map of the study area showing the distribution of all road counts conducted between 2009 and 2025. The black polygon indicates the core survey area.

During these 16 years, Ronelle counted all the raptors and large birds that she saw on these work trips. Comparing how the rate of these observations (numbers of individuals per 100km driven) changed over time allowed us to explore species population trends. We had enough data to examine trends for 18 raptors and eight other large bird species over this period. Unfortunately, we did not find a good news story.

These road counts revealed that 50% of the species (13 out of 26) declined significantly, while only three species (12%) showed significant increases. The remaining ten species (38%) showed no significant trends (see Figure 2).

The declining trends raise serious concerns about the conservation status of several species in a region known to host important raptor populations. Thus, urgent conservation actions are needed, especially for species declining by more than 50%. Given that several of these species are not currently listed as threatened either globally or regionally, their conservation status may need to be reassessed.

Fig.2: Estimated population change for 26 species from road counts between 2009 and 2025 in South Africa. (a) Negative and (b) positive trends. The dashed vertical black line indicates a −50% population change. Author provided (no reuse)

Trends in raptor populations

According to our results, 42% of the assessed species declined by more than 50% in the last 16 years.

Notable declines included all of the three migratory species assessed (lesser kestrel, amur falcon and steppe buzzard). These trends match other studies from their breeding grounds in the northern hemisphere, which also suggested declines. Protecting migratory species is especially challenging because action may be needed in breeding areas, non-breeding areas, and along migration routes, where the threats they face may differ.

We also found declines of several resident raptors, including jackal buzzard, Verreaux’s eagle and secretarybird. Populations of these species declined by over 50% in our study region.

In contrast, populations of white-necked raven, greater kestrels, and white-backed vulture increased. The latter is a critically endangered species, but seems to be increasing within our study area.

Amur Falcon. Ronelle Visagie, Author provided (no reuse)

Some of the trends we detected were similar to a recent study that explored raptor population trends from across Africa using similar approaches to our study. For example, our findings of large declines for secretarybird and lesser kestrel were very similar to those reported in Kenya and Botswana. Additionally, similar population changes for secretarybird were detected during winter (but not summer) using road counts in the Nama Karoo (a major part of our study area) during the period just before our study (a 61% decline between the late 1980s and early 2010s). This suggests that the decline detected earlier may have continued into the mid-2020s.

Secretarybird. Megan Murgatroyd, Author provided (no reuse)

We compared the direction of trends (whether species numbers were going up or down) from our road counts and the Southern African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP2). But only about half of the trends agreed between the two methods (road counts and the bird atlas). Species with consistent trends between the methods included amur falcon and lesser kestrel – both showing declines – and greater kestrel and white-backed vulture – both showing increases. Species with inconsistent trends all showed decreases according to our road counts but increases according to the bird atlas project. These included Ludwig’s bustard, blue crane, secretarybird, black-winged kite, and southern pale chanting goshawk.

If we assume that our road counts trends are reliable, these findings suggest that although the bird atlas project data can provide valuable information on the changes in distribution of birds, atlas data may be less well suited to capture changes in abundance at large spatial scales and across multiple species.

Across Africa, declines in birds of prey are often linked to human population growth, agricultural expansion and climate change. In our study area, there have been no major recent changes in land use or population density, but more subtle or long-term human impacts may be driving these changes.

Conflicts between people and raptors, including illegal killings, could play a role. Climate change and infrastructure like power lines and wind farms are adding further pressure by fragmenting aerial habitat and affecting survival and reproduction.

Trends in human populations

Ronelle Visagie. Author provided (no reuse)

Human populations in Africa are expected to grow significantly over the next three decades, which will increase pressure on biodiversity.

Given the projected human population growth in Africa (79%), and a corresponding rise in demand for resources and energy, threats to vulnerable bird species are likely to get worse.

Gareth Tate. Author provided (no reuse)

It is therefore essential that we have reliable tools to monitor species trends and better understand the impacts of these pressures.

This is crucial for understanding the current biodiversity crisis and preventing severe wildlife loss.

Ronelle Visagie and Gareth Tate of the Endangered Wildlife Trust contributed to this research.

– Birds of prey in South Africa are in trouble – a study analyses data from 16 years of road counts
– https://theconversation.com/birds-of-prey-in-south-africa-are-in-trouble-a-study-analyses-data-from-16-years-of-road-counts-281908

May 8, 2026

Merck Foundation and African First Ladies are Making History in Africa by Training the First Oncologists and Cancer Care teams in their Countries

Source: APO

Merck Foundation together with African First Ladies and Ministries of Health continues to build cancer care capacity by providing around 260 Scholarships of One-year Clinical Training in many oncology sub- specialties, and One year and Two year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management.
Merck Foundation is making history in Africa by training the First African Oncologists and First Cancer Care Teams in Countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Malawi, Niger, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.
Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO together with African First Ladies recently released “Ray of Hope” children’s storybook and Animation Film for Cancer Awareness in three languages. Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4wj0apB

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, marks ‘World Cancer Day 2026’ together with Africa’s First Ladies and Ministries of Health by continuing to build and advance cancer care capacity through their Cancer Access Program, with the aim to increase the limited number of Oncologists in Africa.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.) explained, “At Merck Foundation, we mark World Cancer Day through our sustained, everyday efforts to transform cancer care in Africa by addressing one of its most critical gaps: late diagnosis and the shortage of trained specialists.

Together with my dear sisters, African First Ladies, we have strengthened cancer care capacity in the continent by providing 258 Oncology Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 African and Asian countries, significantly increasing the number of trained oncologists and developing the multidisciplinary cancer care teams. In several of these countries, there wasn’t even a single oncologist. We are very proud that we are making history by training the first oncologists and first multidisciplinary cancer care teams in many countries like The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Burundi, Liberia, Guinea Conakry, Central African Republic, Chad, Niger, and many more.”

Merck Foundation in total provided more than 2500 scholarships for healthcare providers from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialities.

“Merck Foundation remains committed to transforming the landscape of patient care in general, and cancer care in particular, leading Africa toward a healthier future,” Dr. Rasha Kelej further explained.

As part of their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation has to date provided 258 Scholarships for healthcare providers from 34 countries as per the following:

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of One year clinical training in most of oncology sub- specialties such as; Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Genital Urinary oncology, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Moreover, Merck Foundation provides One-year and Two-year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

The 34 countries include Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Malaysia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

According to WHO data (2022), Africa sees roughly 1.1 million new cancer cases and up to about 700,000 cancer deaths each year. Cancer mortality rates in Africa are much higher than in many other regions of the world, reflecting late diagnosis, limited access to care, and gaps in health systems. Therefore, Merck Foundation’s oncology scholarships play a critically important role in strengthening cancer care capacity across the continent.

Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “Nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be successfully treated when diagnosed early, and up to one-third can be prevented by reducing key risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, and lifestyle-related causes. To raise awareness about it, we have recently launched a children storybook and its adaptive animation film “Ray of Hope”, in partnership with African First Ladies. The story deals with childhood cancer and highlights the critical importance of early detection and access to well-trained cancer care teams capable of recognizing early warning signs.”

Read ‘Ray of Hope’ storybook here: https://apo-opa.co/4npV5b6

Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here: https://apo-opa.co/4wj0apB

Merck Foundation has also created awareness materials including awareness leaflets and videos on Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.

Dr Judith Mkwaila, Merck Foundation Alumni from Malawi shares, “It was a great honor and privilege to be awarded the Merck Foundation Scholarship to pursue the Surgical Oncology fellowship training program at Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth, India. The fellowship gave me both, theoretical and hands-on training in complex oncological procedures for head and neck cancers, breast, upper gastrointestinal and colorectal cancers. I was exposed to a multidisciplinary team approach in cancer care hence deepening my knowledge and skills in multimodality approach to cancer treatment for both curative and palliative purposes. Due to the knowledge and skills acquired through the training, I was able to start a General Surgical Clinic and become the First and Only Female Chief Surgeon at the Mzuzu Central Hospital. I am very thankful to Merck Foundation for the opportunity given to me to pursue this fellowship program and for continuing this noble cause of increasing access to high quality cancer care.”

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

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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/3QStt29), X (https://apo-opa.co/4dir4Fz), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4tlB5HG), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4uGPKyx), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4ddMROq) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4tm4K3w).

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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May 8, 2026

Seychelles participates in United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) forum marking the International Day for Small Island Developing States

Source: APO

Mr. Georges Tirant, Ambassador of Seychelles to France and Permanent Delegate of Seychelles to UNESCO, took part in the high-level panel on “Partnerships and Financing”, held at UNESCO Headquarters to mark the International Day for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Ambassador Tirant highlighted key achievements in advancing the SIDS agenda, including the establishment of the SIDS Group, the Group of Friends of SIDS, and the development of dedicated strategies. He reiterated the importance of recognising SIDS as a priority group within UNESCO, supported by a dedicated Director, to strengthen advocacy for climate action and financing.

A central objective of Seychelles’ participation was to promote the country’s World Heritage nomination for the Mission Ruins of Venn’s Town, which would become Seychelles’ first historic site inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The Ambassador underscored the significance of this nomination for safeguarding Seychelles’ cultural heritage and enhancing global recognition of its historical legacy.

He also recalled Seychelles’ leadership in innovative financing, notably the 2018 Blue Bond, which mobilised capital for marine and ocean-based projects delivering environmental, economic, and climate benefits. He further emphasised the importance of implementing the Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) across global decision-making processes.

The panel featured senior representatives from UNESCO, the European Union, Australia, and regional organisations, and was moderated by the Co-Chairs of the Group of Friends of SIDS.

An exhibition showcasing SIDS cultural heritage was held alongside the event. In collaboration with the Seychellois diaspora, the Embassy of Seychelles in Paris presented a stand featuring traditional Seychellois culinary dishes.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Republic of Seychelles.

May 8, 2026

South Africa to mark International Day of Plant Health in Mpumalanga

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa to mark International Day of Plant Health in Mpumalanga

The Department of Agriculture, in partnership with the Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs, will commemorate the 2026 International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) in Mbombela.

The International Day of Plant Health is observed annually on 12 May to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can end hunger, reduce poverty, protect the environment, and boost economic development.

The event will take place at the Ehlanzeni District Office Disaster Management Centre and forms part of global efforts to promote plant health and biosecurity.

The International Day of Plant Health was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development.

This year’s commemoration will be held under the theme “Plant Biosecurity for Food Security”, highlighting the importance of safeguarding crops and natural vegetation from pests and diseases.

The initiative also supports the objectives of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, particularly Goal 2, which aims to achieve zero hunger.

The department said the event seeks to increase awareness among policymakers, industry stakeholders and the public about the need to protect plant resources, especially in the context of growing international trade in plants and plant products.

“The IDPH is further envisaged to assist in minimising the risk of spreading plant pests as a result of international trade in plants and plant products and foster the implementation of the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM),” the department said in a statement. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/08/2026 – 14:54

May 8, 2026

Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

Source: Government of South Africa

Constitution laid the foundation for a democratic SA

As South Africa marks 30 years since the South African Constitution was adopted by the National Assembly, Deputy Minister in the Presidency Nonceba Mhlauli said the milestone “invites all of us, especially young people, to reflect on where this country comes from and where it is going”.

Speaking during the handing over of Cyber Lab at Paballelo Senior Secondary School, Mhlauli told the learners that the day reminded the country of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom, dignity, equality and justice so that future generations could enjoy opportunities that many were once denied.

“It is for this reason that the ongoing review of the history curriculum by the Department of Basic Education is so important,” she said.

Mhlauli said South Africa must ensure that young people understand the full story of the nation, its struggles, its triumphs and the lessons of the past.

“History is not only about remembering where we come from, it is also about shaping the kind of future we want to build together as South Africans,” the Deputy Minister said.

The Department of Basic Education has published the draft new History Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statements for Grades 4 to 12 for public comment.

The current publication forms part of a curriculum review process that has been under way for several years. It provides for the study of ancient and modern pasts, the use of historical and archaeological sources and the development of historical thinking, historical consciousness and historical culture.

Mhlauli told the learners that the handover ceremony was more than just an official event. “It is a meaningful investment in the future of the young people of this community,” she said.

She extend her sincere appreciation to HUAWEI for partnering with government and the school in support of education and development.

“Partnerships such as these demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in creating opportunities for our learners.

“Education remains one of the most powerful tools we have to transform lives, fight inequality, and build a capable generation that can contribute meaningfully to our country’s development,” she said.

The Deputy Minister also told the learners that their circumstances do not define their destiny.

“I stand before you today as proof that greatness can emerge from this very school and this very community. Remain disciplined, work hard, respect your educators and parents, and never stop believing in your potential. South Africa needs your energy, your ideas, your innovation, and your leadership.

“To the educators and staff, thank you for the critical role you continue to play in shaping young minds, often under difficult circumstances. Your commitment does not go unnoticed,” she said.

Mhlauli said also encouraged all the learners who are 16 years and older to register to vote.

“Your voice matters, your future matters, and your participation in our democracy matters. Young people must play an active role in shaping the future of our country. Do not wait until others make decisions on your behalf. Register, participate, and make your voices heard,” said the Deputy Minister. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin
Fri, 05/08/2026 – 14:52

May 8, 2026

Steenhuisen welcomes new PPECB board ahead of centenary milestone

Source: Government of South Africa

Steenhuisen welcomes new PPECB board ahead of centenary milestone

As the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB) prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in June, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has congratulated and welcomed the organisation’s newly appointed board members.

Established in June 1926, the PPECB is entering its second century of service as a linchpin of South Africa’s export and trade infrastructure, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Agriculture continues to play a central role in the country’s economy, serving as an engine for job creation and source of foreign exchange.

As the world’s trade landscape shifts, the role of the PPECB in providing independent, internationally recognised quality certification and cold chain management has never been more crucial.

The newly constituted board brings together a wealth of expertise and knowledge across the agricultural, agro-processing, and marine value chains. Their collective experience is a strategic asset as the country pursues new market access and seeks to expand existing international markets.

“I want to congratulate our new board members on taking up this mantle. They are stepping into leadership roles at an institution that has spent a century building trust in the South African export certificate,” Steenhuisen said.

With global trade becoming increasingly complex, the Minister emphasised that the calibre of the new board is a direct response to the need for high-level technical and strategic expertise.

The PPECB Board of Directors comprises the following members:
• Anton Kruger (Ministerial Representative): Former Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum CEO, with 14 years of executive experience;
• Jill Atwood-Palm (Processed Products): SA Fruit and Vegetable Canners Export Council General Manager, with 25 years’ experience in agro-processing;
• Albert Coetzee (Citrus Industry): Agricultural economist focusing on international sustainability regulations;
• Jacques du Preez (Pome and Stone Fruit): Expert in market access and negotiating international trade protocols;
• Lindie Stroebel (Subtropical Fruit): Senior executive with a focus on global supply footprints;
• Michael Vorster (Table Grape Industry): Experienced producer and chairperson within the table grape sector;
• Werner van Rooyen (Pome and Stone Fruit): Chief Operations Officer (COO) of the Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum and logistics specialist;
• Jolanda Andrag (Exporters’ Representative): COO of AgriSA, bringing extensive experience in public policy and development finance;
• Bonga Mavume (Marine Industry): Founder of Nalitha Fishing Group with 20 years’ experience in food manufacturing; and
• Pheladi Tlomatsane (Citrus Industry): Compliance and governance specialist with over 15 years’ experience in the sector.

“The Ministry is confident that this board will provide the needed steady and innovative vision to bolster South Africa’s reputation as a world-class exporter of premium perishable goods,” Steenhuisen said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 05/08/2026 – 14:37