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African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Launches Artificial intelligence (AI) and Data Center Platform, Bridging Africa’s Digital and Energy Transformation

Source: APO


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The African Energy Week (AEW) Conference and Exhibition – taking place October 12-16 in Cape Town – will host the first-ever AI and Data Center Track, positioning the continent at the intersection of digital infrastructure expansion and energy system transformation. Led by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org), the track is designed as a platform to align policymakers, investors and technology players around a unified strategy for scaling power generation through data-driven demand. As Africa moves to strengthen energy security, the upcoming track will demonstrate how AI-driven investments can support the continent as it strives to make energy poverty history. 

The introduction of the AI and Data Center Track reflects a structural shift that is already underway across global energy markets. Data centers – driven by artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital services – are rapidly becoming one of the largest sources of incremental electricity demand. Globally, the demand for uninterruptible power supply for IT equipment alone is forecast to reach 249 GW by 2030, with total installed capacity expected to climb to 374 GW.

While the penetration of data centers in Africa has been comparably slower, investment is gradually increasing in these areas. South Africa is leading the continent’s data center expansion, with cloud zones from Microsoft and AWS already live and Google expected to follow. Kenya has around 40 MW of IT load capacity and a projected 30% CAGR through 2028. Despite this progress, more investment is required to keep up with the pace of Africa’s digital evolution. Notably, data usage is expected to quadruple per mobile by 2028, while generative AI and machine learning are impacting demand.  

While Europe has serviced much of Africa’s digital demand, rising latency requirements and growing data sovereignty regulations are motivating a shift to domestic data centers – strengthening the investment case even further. This comes as African energy demand continues to rise and is projected to more than double by 2040. In this context, Africa represents both a frontier market and a strategic opportunity – and a region where energy demand growth can be shaped, rather than retrofitted, around emerging digital infrastructure.

“Africa has a unique opportunity to leapfrog legacy systems by aligning its energy growth with the digital economy. Data centers and AI are not just consumers of power – they are catalysts for investment, innovation and access. If we structure this correctly, we are not just powering servers; we are powering economies and closing the energy access gap at scale. We will start a data center and AI revolution in Cape Town,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.

The AEW 2026 AI and Data Center Track positions Africa’s digital evolution as an anchor for the continent’s energy expansion. The opportunities are two-fold. Firstly, these centers require large volumes of reliable, uninterrupted electricity, therefore creating predictable and bankable demand for energy investors. Secondly, they strengthen the case for new generation capacity and grid expansion, strengthening national energy systems and introducing affordable sources of power to local markets.

This is where the AEC’s platform is attempting to reframe the narrative. Rather than treating data centers as isolated infrastructure projects, the new track positions them as anchor demand capable of unlocking large-scale power generation. Showcasing the AEC’s innovative mindset, the platform will also tackle regulatory and fiscal frameworks, with the Chamber working with governments to implement the right kind of policies that will drive data center, AI and energy expansion. The Chamber has already engaged world class companies to develop the platform, ensuring compliance and alignment with industry dynamics.

By embedding the AI and data center agenda within AEW 2026, the AEC is effectively integrating digital infrastructure into mainstream energy discourse. As global energy demand becomes increasingly shaped by digital infrastructure, Africa is positioning itself to capture that demand – and, in doing so, reshape its own energy trajectory.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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GWM Global All-Scenario Test Drive: Finding Answers for the World, in China

Source: APO

During the Beijing Auto Show, GWM (www.GWM-Global.com) hosted an unprecedented global test drive event at its global R&D Center and proving ground. The program brought together leading automotive media from international markets and key dealer partners to experience GWM’s latest lineup, including the ORA 5, WEY V9X, TANK 700, and WEY G9—spanning hybrid, pure electric, and internal combustion powertrains.

By organizing a large-scale global driving experience at its headquarters, GWM aims to present the full strength of its product portfolio to international markets, while demonstrating its commitment to offering consumers genuine freedom of choice.

Global Adaptability Across All Powertrains

For many overseas consumers, doubts about Chinese brands rarely center on technical specifications. Instead, they come down to a deeper concern: trust. Laboratory data is often obtained under ideal conditions, but real-world vehicle performance—especially under extreme environments and complex scenarios—requires tangible validation.

By hosting this event on its “home ground,” GWM seeks to build confidence through transparent, real-world testing.

After experiencing the TANK 300 on a professional off-road course, one automotive editor commented:“GWM’s Hi4T new energy off-road powertrain is highly impressive. The brand places strong emphasis on driving feel, and GWM off-road grading system can provide valuable guidance for beginners. It aligns perfectly with evolving consumer expectations today.”

The event featured multiple dedicated modules, including track driving, off-road terrain challenges, and intelligent driving assistance scenarios—each designed to replicate typical usage conditions across global markets.

During the dealer test drives, a representative from Australia noted: “Overseas customers have high expectations for all-wheel-drive capability and off-road performance. The Hi4 system left a strong impression on me—especially its torque vectoring response, which is much quicker than I anticipated. It inspires great confidence when cornering.”

A participant from Southeast Asia highlighted another perspective: “Traffic congestion in Kuala Lumpur and flooded roads during heavy rain in Bangkok are among the most common concerns from our customers. The Hi4 system’s smoothness under frequent stop-and-go conditions, as well as its vehicle stability on waterlogged roads, exceeded my previous expectations of Chinese brands.”

Intelligent Driving, Ready to Adapt to Local Markets

Among the most closely watched elements of the event was the urban NOA (Navigation on Autopilot) system featured on the WEY G9 and WEY V9X.

The test took place on real urban roads in China, including construction detours, mixed traffic with electric two-wheelers, complex intersections, and unprotected left turns—some of the most challenging everyday driving scenarios.

One international automotive content creator completed the entire urban NOA route without manual intervention and remarked: “This is incredible. We’re not talking about a controlled test track—the city environment is extremely complex, with a wide range of road users. The system’s ability to recognize and predict their behavior exceeded my expectations.”

Another journalist observed: “The core concern among overseas consumers is whether Chinese intelligent driving technologies can truly function in foreign markets. This real-world test showed that the system already covers pretty much every scenario you can think of, so we can easily roll it out in our local market.”

In a lighter moment, media representatives from Morocco used the WEY G9’s intelligent cockpit audio system to perform Adele’s “Someone Like You.” The clear high notes and rich vocal reproduction quickly drew a crowd—offering a vivid demonstration of the vehicle’s product quality through sound.

Dealers: Long-Term Commitment Matters Most

Alongside the test drives, GWM organized in-depth exchanges between dealers and media, underscoring its openness to feedback and commitment to listening.

A dealer representative commented: “European consumers are beginning to take notice of GWM, but their main concern is whether the brand will have a long-term presence in Europe. This event helped me find my own answer. Customers don’t just want products; they want to know the company’s technical ability and adaptability. What I’ve seen today gives me real confidence in GWM’s ‘integrity’ — or in other words, their work ethic and long-term global strategy.”

This was not a one-way narrative of a Chinese brand showcasing its products to the world, but a genuine two-way validation.

As the event concluded, GWM summarized its intent with a clear message: “We didn’t invite you here simply to demonstrate our product strength or to ask for praise. We invited you to give us honest feedback—so we can build better products for consumers in your local markets.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GWM.

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Government reaffirms commitment to media freedom

Source: Government of South Africa

Government reaffirms commitment to media freedom

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to a free and vibrant press in South Africa.

The commitment coincides with the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day, observed this year under the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security.”

South Africa remains the highest-ranked country in Africa in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders, placing 21st out of 180 countries globally.

“This year’s World Press Freedom Day is a call to harness the power of the media to shape narratives that promote discourse on global peace and human rights.

“Government commends media institutions committed to fair and ethical journalism and emphasises the responsibility to provide accurate and verified information,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Sunday. –SAnews.gov.za

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Africa’s Travel Indaba to drive economic growth

Source: Government of South Africa

Africa’s Travel Indaba to drive economic growth

Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille says Africa’s Travel Indaba is a powerful celebration of the continent’s extraordinary potential to drive economic growth through tourism.

“This is where travel industry professionals gather, including tour operators, hotels, airlines and tourism boards to showcase products, network, negotiate deals and form partnerships with buyers,” De Lille said on Monday.

Speaking at the media launch of Africa’s Travel Indaba in Durban this morning, De Lille said President Cyril Ramaphosa will officially open the indaba on Tuesday, 12 May.

The indaba will be held from the 12 -13 May in Durban under the theme: “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy”.

“[The President’s presence] reflects the strategic importance of tourism at the highest level of government and affirms our collective understanding that tourism is not peripheral to economic growth; it is central to it,” she said.

De Lille said Africa’s tourism economy is poised for extraordinary growth.

“The tourism sector remains one of the continent’s most powerful economic contributors. Through the geographic spread of tourism, the sector creates job opportunities and stimulates investment even in the most remote villages.

“Here in South Africa, domestic tourism continues to be the backbone of the sector. Between January and February 2026, total trips grew by 35.6% when compared to the previous year.

“Equally important are meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), which continue to contribute immensely towards the range of the country’s tourism offerings.”

De Lille said South Africa is world-renowned for hosting events. 

“Hosting major business events injects billions into the GDP and drives tourism beyond leisure.”

The Minister described tourism as a “soft power asset”, which has the ability to shape international perception. “Tourism is a gateway sector for investment, influencing investor confidence, country image and new project development.

“It is for this reason that the Inaugural Tourism Infrastructure Investment Summit, held in September 2025, launched eight bankable projects worth approximately R1 billion, with three of them already securing funding.”

De Lille said some recent major investments in the tourism sector include the R24 billion V&A Waterfront expansion. 

According to Statistics South Africa’s Tourism Satellite Account for South Africa Report, in 2024, the tourism sector accounted for 953 981 direct jobs. This means 1 in 18 workers was directly employed in tourism.

Africa’s Travel Indaba is one of the largest tourism marketing events on the African calendar and one of the top three ‘must visit’ events of its kind on the global calendar.

It showcases the widest variety of Africa’s best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. Africa’s Travel Indaba is owned by South African Tourism.

According to the organisers of Africa’s Travel Indaba, the indaba has won the award for Africa’s Best Travel and Tourism Show for two years in a row. This award was presented by the Association of World Travel Awards. – SAnews.gov.za

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Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha| May 04, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Monday with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov, who is visiting the country.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and means to enhance and develop them.
The meeting also addressed the latest regional developments, particularly those related to the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, as well as ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions in support of regional security and stability.

HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs underscored the importance of all parties engaging constructively in ongoing mediation efforts, noting that such engagement would help address the root causes of the crisis through dialogue and peaceful means, and contribute to achieving a sustainable agreement that prevents further escalation.

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Manamela presents higher education annual performance plan to Parliament

Source: Government of South Africa

Manamela presents higher education annual performance plan to Parliament

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has outlined an ambitious “system reset” for the post-school education and training (PSET) sector.

This comes as he presented the department’s 2026/27 Annual Performance Plan (APP) and budget priorities to Parliament.

Manamela, joined by Deputy Ministers and Director-General Nkosinathi Sishi, presented Vote 17 to the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, which allocated R443 billion over the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework across universities, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, Community Education and Training (CET) colleges, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, and Quality Councils.

In his presentation, Manamela said the APP represents a decisive shift from fragmented planning and compliance-driven processes towards measurable outcomes, accountability, and system-wide integration.

“This APP is the operational expression of the national skills revolution mandate articulated by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2026 State of the Nation Address, and not an isolated administrative document,” Manamela said.

The Minister noted that the APP is grounded in a broader reform trajectory initiated following extensive consultations across the post-school education and training sector after he assumed office in July 2025.

APP key priorities include:
•    Expanding access and student success across the PSET system;
•    Strengthening TVET colleges and artisan development pathways;
•    Improving workplace-based learning and employability outcomes;
•    Stabilising and reforming NSFAS;
•    Stronger SETA accountability and alignment;
•    Embedding outcome-based performance measurement; and
•    Integrating planning across the sector.

Manamela acknowledged findings presented by the Auditor-General of South Africa, highlighting weaknesses in aspects of the APP, and confirmed that corrective measures are already underway.

“We accept the findings of the Auditor-General. Producing reports is not performance! Performance is whether students complete, whether artisans qualify, and whether graduates find work.

“We have therefore strengthened outcome-based indicators, improved alignment with national priorities, and tightened systems of accountability and verification,” he said.

The Minister also confirmed that the department is finalising Service Level Agreements (SLAs) with all SETAs, strengthening infrastructure performance measurement tracking, and standardising data definitions and verification processes across the system.

The APP outlines several major delivery targets for 2026/27, including support for more than 1.15 million university students, over 520 000 TVET college enrolments, and more than 700 000 students funded through NSFAS.

It also targets 91 800 workplace-based learning opportunities and 22 000 artisan certifications, alongside expanded occupational qualifications and alignment with priorities such as the Just Energy Transition, digital economy, and industrial policy priorities.

Manamela said the department’s focus remains on ensuring that public investment in education and training translates into tangible economic opportunities, and that young people ultimately judge the system by whether it delivers results.

Sishi also presented detailed APP indicators, implementation plans, and a technical response to the Auditor-General’s findings to the committee. – SAnews.gov.za

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Merck Foundation and Kenya First Lady and Minister of Health Underscore Long-term Partnership to Build Healthcare and Media Capacity and extend more Medical Scholarships to Local Doctors Nationwide

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, launched their Educating Linda Program to support girl education at Kenya State House, in partnership with H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H, The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During the visit, the Merck Foundation Kenya Alumni Summit 2026 was also conducted to highlight the impact of their scholarships program with the aim to build healthcare capacity and transform patient care landscape across Kenya nationwide.

The program was attended by The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, and CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign, Dr. Rasha Kelej and Kenya Minister of Health, Hon. Aden Duale.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It is a great pleasure to meet my dear sister, H.E. Mrs. RACHEL RUTO E.G.H. First Lady of the Republic of Kenya and to recognize her for her tremendous efforts as the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”.

I am proud that through our long-term partnership we have provided 328 scholarships for young Kenyan healthcare providers in 44 critical and underserved specialties. I am also happy to share that nearly 50% of these scholarships have been awarded to women healthcare providers, reinforcing our commitment to women empowerment.

It was also great meeting Kenya Minister of Health, Hon. Aden Duale and our Alumni, who are the future healthcare experts of Kenya.”

“We are looking forward to extending our scholarship program to more healthcare providers in partnership with First Lady of Kenya and in collaboration with Medical Societies and Ministry of Health when possible.” She added.

H.E. Mrs. Rachel Ruto E.G.H., The First Lady of the Republic of Kenya expressed,

“Through our impactful partnership with Merck Foundation, we are not just implementing programs, we are transforming lives. Together, we are strengthening our healthcare capacity, empowering girls through education, breaking infertility stigma, and addressing other critical social and health challenges across Kenya. We are immensely proud that, through our strong partnership, we have been able to provide 328 scholarships for our healthcare providers, not only in the capital city, but across the country. It represents a powerful investment in the future of our healthcare system, a commitment to building expertise where it is needed most, and a significant step towards ensuring equitable access to quality care for all our people.

At the same time, we are equally proud to support the education of 47 high-performing yet underprivileged Kenyan schoolgirls, providing them with annual scholarships till they graduate. By empowering these young girls through education, we are not only transforming individual lives, but also shaping stronger families, communities, and a brighter future for our nation.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees added, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity in Kenya and across developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patient care through our scholarships program.”

Hon. Aden Duale, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Health, Kenya shared, “We sincerely appreciate the Merck Foundation Scholarships Program through which 328 scholarships have been provided till today for our local healthcare providers in many critical underserved specialties, helping us to build and strengthen our healthcare capacity, across the country.”

One of the important specialties that Merck Foundation is focusing on in 2025 and 2026 in Kenya is the scholarship of One Year Diploma in Nutrition, to support the program of Feeding and Food Security of Kenya First Lady.

More than 90 scholarships are dedicated to this specialty across the 47 provinces of Kenya. This will create a culture shift in leading a healthy lifestyle for the whole population which will contribute to healthier communities and hence social and economic development of the whole country nationwide.

The program was also attended by the Kenyan winners of Merck Foundation Media Awards 2024 and 2025.

“It was a pleasure meeting and celebrating our Winners, the health and social champions, who are the voice of the voiceless”, added Dr. Rasha Kelej.

Out of the total 328 scholarships, Merck Foundation has provided:

  • 121 scholarships for one-year postgraduate diplomas and two-year master’s degrees in Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, and Endocrinology. These programs enable doctors to establish specialized diabetes clinics across the country.
  • 10 scholarships for Oncology, which is a critical specialty to strengthen cancer care capacity.
  • 49 scholarships for Fertility, Embryology, and Reproductive Medicine under the “More Than a Mother” campaign, bringing hope and support to couples facing infertility challenges.
  • 148 scholarships for other important specialties such as Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Neurology, Emergency Medicine, Dermatology, and many more, contributing significantly to strengthening Kenya’s healthcare system.

Merck Foundation has overall provided more than 2,600 scholarships for healthcare providers in 44 critical and undeserved specialties from over 52 countries.

During the Summit, Merck Foundation alumni shared inspiring testimonies on how these scholarships have transformed their professional journeys and improved patient care in their communities.

Merck Foundation, in partnership with the First Lady of Kenya, is also launching 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” in English and Swahili to raise awareness about critical social and health issues among young children. Thousands of copies will be distributed across schools in Kenya. These storybooks have also been adapted into animated films to further enhance their impact.

Moreover, Merck Foundation has conducted 4 Editions of their Online Health Media Training for Kenyan journalists to empower them to raise awareness about sensitive social and health issues such as breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, ending child marriage and GBV, and promoting healthy lifestyle practices.

Merck Foundation, together with the First Lady of Kenya, also organizes annual awards for media, musicians, filmmakers, and fashion designers to encourage creative talents to raise awareness about important social issues.

Merck Foundation in partnership with the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya 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/42J0z75

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!
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4w7GlBn

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 (http://apo-opa.co/42ddmOZ), X (http://apo-opa.co/42LImG0), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4dnSE5a), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/42domMg), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/3P0q808) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3QYuYM3).

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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Call for calm as Hantavirus case confirmed

Source: Government of South Africa

Call for calm as Hantavirus case confirmed

The Department of Health (DoH) has called for public calm following confirmation of a rare Hantavirus case in a critically ill British national in South Africa.

The patient was a passenger aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, which was travelling to the Canary Islands via Cape Verde from Argentina.

The ship was carrying some 150 passengers and went past several islands, including mainland Antarctica, Falklands, South Georgia, Nightingale Island, Tristan, St Helena and Ascension.

“Despite medical treatment provided to him at Ascension, his condition did not improve and necessitated his medical evacuation to a South African private health facility in Sandton for further medical management.

“His laboratory test results came back positive for Hantavirus – a rare but potentially deadly virus transmitted primarily by rodents. The patient is still in critical condition in isolation but receiving medical attention,” the department stated.

Two other passengers, a husband and wife, also experienced medical emergencies.

“While the ship was travelling past South African shores, some of the passengers experienced serious health complications arising from what was initially considered severe acute respiratory infections.

“[The] first patient was a 70-year-old male passenger who suddenly became ill on the ship en route from Ushuaia to St Helena Island, and presented with fever, headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Unfortunately, he passed away on arrival at St Helena Island. His mortal remains are in St Helena, awaiting repatriation to the Netherlands.

“The second affected passenger was of a 69-year-old female, the spouse of the first patient, who collapsed at the OR Tambo International Airport while trying to connect a flight to her home country of the Netherlands. She was taken to a nearby health facility around Kempton Park for medical attention and, unfortunately, passed away. Laboratory test results for the patient are outstanding,” the department explained.

The DoH is working with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases and Gauteng Health Department authorities to “conduct contact tracing to stop potential spread of the virus by identifying and monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to the infected persons”.

“In our view, there is no need for the public to panic because only two patients from the cruise ship have been within our borders.

“The World Health Organization is coordinating a multi-country response with all affected islands and countries to contain further spread of the disease,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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SAPS Captain praised for bravery

Source: Government of South Africa

SAPS Captain praised for bravery

The Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has commended Captain Johan “Pottie” Potgieter for his bravery after he secured a crocodile during an operation to recover the human remains of a suspected missing person.

“In a highly dangerous and complex operation along the Komati River, Captain Potgieter was hoisted from a South African National Parks (SANParks) helicopter into a crocodile-infested river, where he courageously secured a crocodile using a rope under extremely perilous conditions,” police said in a statement on Sunday.

Following a week-long search for a missing businessman, authorities obtained permission to euthanise a crocodile suspected of attacking the victim. The animal was safely retrieved and relocated, enabling police and forensic experts to recover the remains.

Dimpane praised the captain as an example of the highest standards of service and dedication.

“Captain Potgieter’s willingness to place his own life at risk, going far beyond the call of duty, reflects the unwavering commitment of SAPS members to serve and protect, even in the face of danger that could have cost him his life,” she said.

The SAPS paid tribute to Captain Potgieter for his heroism, bravery, professionalism and dedication.

“His actions are a reminder of the courage and sacrifice demonstrated daily by members of the South African Police Service.” – SAnews.gov.za

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COGTA hails SA, Nigeria engagement after traditional dispute in EC

Source: Government of South Africa

COGTA hails SA, Nigeria engagement after traditional dispute in EC

The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA) has welcomed what it described as constructive engagement between the AmaRharhabe Traditional Council and the Nigerian High Commission, following a recent meeting in the Eastern Cape.

COGTA Deputy Minister Zolile Burns Ncamashe said the engagement marked a positive step towards strengthening relations and promoting social cohesion between communities.

The meeting, held in KuGompo, was led by King Jonguxolo Sandile, who hosted Nigerian High Commissioner Alexander Temitope Ajayi and his delegation.

The dialogue followed earlier engagements between the South African Government and the High Commissioner regarding concerns over an alleged unauthorised traditional coronation in the area.

According to COGTA, the meeting provided an opportunity for the High Commissioner to express regret over the incident and to reaffirm respect for South Africa’s traditional leadership institutions and cultural practices.

All parties reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and the strengthening of relations between Nigerian nationals and South African communities.

The Deputy Minister commended the leadership shown by all parties during the engagement, highlighting the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in resolving sensitive matters.

“This engagement demonstrates that when we approach matters with respect for traditional authority, a commitment to dialogue, and adherence to the rule of law, even sensitive issues can be resolved constructively,” the Deputy Minister said.

He added that South Africa and Nigeria remain bound by shared history and values, as well as a collective responsibility to promote unity, peace, and mutual respect.

As part of the engagement, the Nigerian delegation apologised for the incident and reaffirmed strong bilateral ties, presenting three cows as a gesture of goodwill. – SAnews.gov.za
 

 

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