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Annual activity assessment meeting of National Union of Eritrean Women (NUEW) United Kingdom (UK) branch

Source: APO

The UK branch of the National Union of Eritrean Women held its annual activity assessment meeting on 10 October in London.

At the meeting, in which 130 representatives of the union’s sub-branches took part, Mr. Saleh Abdella, Chargé d’Affaires at the Eritrean Embassy in the UK and Ireland, noted that awareness and organization are the strongest instruments and called for reinforced efforts in this regard.

Mr. Tewolde Yohannes, Head of Public and Community Affairs, provided an extensive briefing on the objective situation in the homeland, as well as regional and global developments, in relation to current programs and priorities. He also called for the preparation of practical future programs.

According to the report presented by Ms. Senait Haile, chairperson of the UK union branch, encouraging activities were carried out in 2026, including enhancing the awareness of members in general and heads of branches and sub-branches in particular; expanding and strengthening the union and recruiting young women; strengthening public diplomacy activities; contributing to the successful implementation of the Mendefera Training Center Project; and implementing community and national programs.

The participants held extensive discussions on the reports presented and on future programs.

At the meeting, heads and representatives of the national committee, organizations, and associations delivered messages of support for the activities of the National Union of Eritrean Women’s UK branch.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Defence Ministry Champions Environmental Security and Climate Resilience

Source: APO

Environmental conservation is a critical pillar of national security, climate resilience and sustainable development. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) marked National Mazingira Day 2026 through coordinated tree-growing initiatives in Narok and Laikipia counties, reinforcing its commitment to ecosystem restoration and environmental sustainability.
Cabinet Secretary for Defence, Hon. Soipan Tuya, led tree-growing activities at Narok West Technical Training Institute (NWTTI) in Narok County, bringing together representatives from national and county governments, educational institutions, government agencies, the security sector, civil society organisations and local communities.

Speaking during the exercise, Hon. Tuya emphasised that environmental conservation must extend beyond planting seedlings to ensuring their survival through sustained nurturing, protection and maintenance. She called upon institutions and communities to embrace tree growing as a continuous responsibility rather than a one-day activity.

In Laikipia County, Defence Principal Secretary Dr Patrick Mariru led Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel, civilian staff and environmental stakeholders in planting 10,000 indigenous tree seedlings at Lariak Forest.

The exercise, undertaken through the KDF Environmental Soldier Programme, focused on rehabilitating degraded forest areas, restoring biodiversity and strengthening ecosystem resilience against the effects of climate change.

The two initiatives underscored the Ministry’s strategic approach to environmental security, recognising the link between healthy ecosystems, community livelihoods, climate resilience and long-term national stability.

The activities also reinforced the Ministry’s contribution towards the Government’s ambitious target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032. With more than 153 million trees planted nationwide, the Ministry of Defence continues to advance forest restoration, environmental stewardship and climate action in support of a greener, safer and more resilient Kenya.

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

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Kenya: Principal Secretary (PS) John Tanui Calls for Stronger Industry–Academia Partnerships

Source: APO

The Principal Secretary for ICT and the Digital Economy, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, CBS, has called for stronger partnerships between industry and academia to equip Kenya’s youth with practical, market-relevant skills that respond to the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.

Eng. Tanui made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI) Partners’ Breakfast Meeting, held under the theme “Sustainable Futures.”

The meeting was hosted by Eng. Prof. David K. Some, Chair of the RVTTI Board of Management, and Mrs. Loice Kutoh, Chief Principal and Secretary to the Board of Management.

The Principal Secretary underscored the importance of aligning technical and vocational education and training (TVET) with industry needs, noting that closer collaboration between training institutions and employers is essential to preparing graduates for meaningful employment and emerging economic opportunities.

He highlighted the role of digital technologies in transforming education, industry and the wider economy, emphasizing the need to integrate information and communication technology (ICT), artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies into technical and vocational training.

Such integration can enhance productivity, foster innovation and equip young people with the competencies required to participate effectively in Kenya’s expanding digital economy.

Eng. Tanui further called for stronger collaboration between industry and training institutions in curriculum development, industrial attachment, and practical skills training, aimed at narrowing the gap between academic qualifications and workplace demands.

He observed that sustained partnerships between industry and academia can bridge the gap between education and employment, stimulate investment, drive job creation, and foster a more competitive and resilient economy.

The engagement underscored the importance of a collaborative approach to skills development – one that brings together training institutions, industry, and government to cultivate a workforce equipped to respond to technological change and support Kenya’s long-term development aspirations.

The State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy continues to advance Kenya’s digital transformation agenda, with digital skills and human capital development serving as key foundations for inclusive growth, innovation and a sustainable digital economy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy (MICDE), Kenya.

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Eritrea: Encouragement of outstanding students in the Central Region

Source: APO

Freselam and Bahti Meskerem schools in the Central Region have encouraged outstanding students who scored high marks in the eighth-grade national examination for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Accordingly, Freselam Elementary and Junior School in Gejeret sub-zone recognized 77 outstanding students, including 50 female students, who scored 90 points or above. The school also recognized nine exemplary teachers.

Noting that 98.4% of the students who sat for the national examination obtained passing marks, Mr. Tedros Tekle, chairman of the parents’ committee, said that the number of students who obtained passing marks had increased by over 3% compared with last year.

Likewise, Bahti Meskerem Junior School in Edaga-Hamus sub-zone recognized 52 outstanding students, including 31 female students. A special award was also presented to a female student who scored 99.6 points in the national examination.

Ms. Saliha Mohammed, administrator of the sub-zone, called on the award-winning students to work hard and excel in their high school education.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Ecowas begins Implementation of Inter-Institutional Communication Strategy and Information and Communication Policy for 2026–2031

Source: APO


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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, in collaboration with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), has commenced a workshop in Accra, Ghana on 12 October 2026 to advance the implementation of the ECOWAS Inter-Institutional Communication Strategy and the ECOWAS Institutions Information and Communication Policy for 2026–2031.

The workshop brings together communication officers from ECOWAS institutions and specialised agencies to strengthen coordination, align institutional messaging, share communication priorities and translate the objectives of the newly adopted policy and strategy into concrete, coordinated actions in support of regional integration and the ECOWAS Vision 2050.

In his opening remarks, Mr Joel AHOFODJI, Director of Communication at the ECOWAS Commission, underscored the strategic importance of communication in advancing regional integration and bringing the Community closer to its citizens. He noted that the workshop marks a critical step towards moving from the adoption of the policy and strategy to their effective implementation.

He emphasised the need to translate the objectives of the 2026–2031 framework into practical initiatives that respond to the rapidly evolving digital communication landscape. He further highlighted the importance of addressing emerging challenges in the information environment and strengthening communication as a strategic instrument for achieving the aspirations of ECOWAS Vision 2050.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Federal Republic of Germany, Lilian Seffer, representing GIZ, congratulated ECOWAS on reaching this important milestone and stressed the need to move decisively from policy development to implementation.

She highlighted the central role of communication in advancing the transition from an “ECOWAS of States” to an “ECOWAS of Peoples”, noting that effective communication is essential to fostering citizens’ understanding of, trust in and engagement with the regional integration process. Against the backdrop of declining public trust in multilateral institutions, she reaffirmed GIZ’s commitment to supporting ECOWAS in implementing its new communication policy and strategy.

Also addressing participants, the ECOWAS Resident Representative in Ghana, Ambassador Mohammed Lawan GANA, who conveyed the message of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, H.E. General Birame DIOP, welcomed participants and expressed appreciation to GIZ for its continued partnership and support.

Ambassador Gana observed that ECOWAS is operating at a decisive moment in its history, as the information landscape undergoes rapid transformation driven by technological advances, including artificial intelligence. He stressed that these developments present challenges that extend beyond communication to encompass peace, security and regional stability, requiring a coordinated and forward-looking institutional response.

He underscored the importance of establishing clear roles and responsibilities, strengthening collaboration among ECOWAS institutions and ensuring a coherent approach to communication across the Community. Such efforts, he noted, are essential to addressing emerging information challenges and ensuring that ECOWAS communicates its priorities, decisions and achievements effectively and consistently.

Throughout the workshop, participants will reflect on communication achievements and lessons learned in 2026 to inform future interventions. Discussions will also focus on understanding the current priorities of ECOWAS management and translating them into clear, consistent messages that can be communicated collectively across the institutions. In preparation for 2027, communication officers will share their respective institutional priorities and explore opportunities to link, coordinate and amplify planned activities for greater reach and impact. The workshop will further provide a platform for participants to work collaboratively on common communication challenges, exchange ideas and experiences, and identify practical solutions while learning from one another.

Through this workshop, ECOWAS seeks to strengthen inter-institutional cooperation, promote greater consistency in its public messaging and enhance the visibility and impact of its programmes and initiatives. The process is expected to contribute to a more coordinated, citizen-centred and responsive communication approach that supports regional integration, reinforces public engagement and advances the vision of an ECOWAS of Peoples.

The initiative also reflects the shared commitment of ECOWAS and GIZ to ensuring that the newly adopted communication policy and strategy translate into practical measures that enhance institutional coordination and enable the Community to communicate more effectively in an increasingly complex and digitalised information environment.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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Government extends well wishes to the class of 2026

Source: Government of South Africa

Government extends well wishes to the class of 2026

With the start of the National Senior Certificate on Tuesday, the government has extended its well wishes to the class of 2026.

“May the candidates’ hard work, determination and commitment yield positive results as they commence with the National Senior Certificate tomorrow, 13 October. A record number of 962 832 candidates registered to sit the October/November examinations. Of these, 815 051 are full-time candidates and 147 781 are part-time candidates,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.

The GCIS said the examinations mark an important milestone in the lives of learners and represent the culmination of 13 years of learning, preparation and personal growth. 

Government acknowledges the dedication, hard work and perseverance of learners, educators, parents and guardians throughout the academic year. 

“Matric candidates are encouraged to approach the examinations with confidence, remain calm and focused. Learners should manage their time effectively, follow their examination timetables, read questions carefully and allocate sufficient time to each section of their examination papers. 

“Parents and guardians are urged to play a supportive role during this critical period by creating a conducive and peaceful environment for studying. Families are also encouraged to avoid placing undue pressure on learners and to remind them that their well-being is just as important as their academic performance,” the GCIS said.

Government encouraged learners to maintain a healthy balance during the examination period, as it is equally important. 

“Learners are encouraged to eat nutritious, balanced meals, drink sufficient water, get adequate sleep, and incorporate physical activity into their daily routines. Short breaks between study sessions can help improve concentration, reduce stress and support overall well-being. 

“Government further encourages learners to seek support from their teachers, parents, guardians or other trusted individuals if they feel overwhelmed or anxious. Learners should remember that they do not have to navigate the pressures of the examination period alone. 

“It is common for learners to feel anxious or overwhelmed during this time, and learners are advised to talk to their parents, teachers, someone they trust, or contact the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on 0800 567 567,” the GCIS said. –SAnews.gov.za

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Qatar Affirms Values of Equality, Respect, Diversity, and Combatting All Forms of Racism

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, October 13, 2026

The State of Qatar affirmed that it attaches great importance to promoting the values of equality, peaceful coexistence, and respect for cultural diversity, which are deeply rooted in Qatari and Islamic culture. It also reaffirmed its commitment to the highest international standards in promoting and protecting human rights for all segments of society, as well as its unwavering support for the right of peoples to self-determination.

This came in two statements delivered by Third Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Amna Abdullah Salat before the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly during its 81st session, under agenda item 68 on the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance and agenda item 69 on the right of peoples to self-determination, held at UN Headquarters in New York.

She noted that the Permanent Constitution of the State of Qatar enshrines the fundamental principles guiding state policy and establishing the foundations of society. Article 18 stipulates that Qatari society shall be based on the pillars of justice, benevolence, freedom, equality and high moral values, while Article 35 states that all persons are equal before the law and there shall be no discrimination whatsoever on grounds of sex, race, language or religion.

She noted that the State of Qatar joined the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination in 1976 and has since continued to fulfill its international obligations in this area. The country also remains committed to cooperating with the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD), which last reviewed its periodic report in 2024.

She pointed out that Qatar National Vision 2030 emphasizes sponsoring and supporting dialogue among civilizations and coexistence between different religions and cultures.

She noted that the National Human Rights Committee plays an important role in protecting human rights, upholding the values of social justice and tolerance, and promoting equality and non-discrimination. She added that the Doha International Center for Interfaith Dialogue also plays a significant role in consolidating the values of understanding and tolerance and building bridges between religions and cultures.

The Third Secretary at Qatar’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations explained that the Secretary-General’s report on the right of peoples to self-determination (A/81/315), submitted under the relevant agenda item, reaffirms the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them their right to self-determination and their right to establish an independent state.

Regarding the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, she drew attention to the report’s observation that depriving any people of their essential means of subsistence threatens the fundamental conditions necessary for exercising their right to self-determination. The report also reaffirms the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people to their natural resources, including land, water and energy resources.

She reiterated Qatar’s position that peace and stability constitute the fundamental pillars of comprehensive development, stressing the country’s unwavering stance based on resolutions of international legitimacy, which guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, and an end to the occupation, settlement activities and unlawful practices in the occupied territory.

The Third Secretary at Qatar’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations also renewed Qatar’s commitment to combating all forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and intolerance, and to promoting the values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence and respect for diversity.

She reaffirmed Qatar’s steadfast support for the right of peoples to self-determination, foremost among them the brotherly Palestinian people, in a manner that guarantees their legitimate rights in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations and international law. 

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Qatar Affirms Importance of Digital Transformation and AI for Economic and Social Development

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, October 12, 2026

The State of Qatar affirmed that digital transformation and artificial intelligence have become key drivers of economic and social development, enhancing services, boosting productivity, supporting decision-making, and accelerating progress toward sustainable development.

The statement was delivered by member of Qatar’s delegation to the 81st session of the UN General Assembly’s Second Committee Sheikh Khalid Abdulaziz Al-Thani, during discussions on Agenda Item 14, Information and Communications Technologies for Sustainable Development, at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

He stated that Qatar attaches great importance to advancing information and communications technology (ICT) and artificial intelligence within the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030. These initiatives aim to strengthen secure and sustainable digital infrastructure, promote economic diversification, and ensure digital inclusion.

He noted that Qatar is implementing its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, focusing on promoting scientific research, developing national capabilities, supporting AI applications across various sectors, and fostering partnerships. Initiatives such as GOV AI and TASMU Smart Qatar program contribute to accelerating digital transformation and improving the quality of public services.

He also highlighted Qatar’s substantial investment in digital infrastructure to support artificial intelligence, including fiber-optic networks, data centers, and cloud computing capabilities, noting that these investments lay the groundwork for expanding AI applications. In this context, he pointed to Qatar’s announcement in December 2025 of Qai, the national AI company, which aims to invest in infrastructure and advanced AI systems while supporting digital solutions across the public and private sectors.

He added that Qatar recognizes the pivotal role of global digital transformation in narrowing development gaps and stressed the importance of international cooperation in technology transfer, capacity building, digital infrastructure development, and ensuring affordable and secure access to technology. Such efforts would help ensure that technology contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, he said.

Sheikh Khalid Al-Thani also highlighted Qatar’s active participation in the UN process on AI governance, including its involvement in the first UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance, held in Geneva in July 2026. He reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to harness technology and innovation in support of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 

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Qatar Vows to Work with UN to Accelerate Doha Programme for Least Developed Countries

Source: Government of Qatar

New York | October 12, 2026

The State of Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to working with the United Nations system and all partners to accelerate the implementation of the Doha Programme of Action for the Least Developed Countries (2022–2031), describing it as a global roadmap and an international platform for achieving sustainable development in least developed countries (LDCs).

This came in a statement delivered by member of the Qatari delegation Abdulaziz Yousef Jolo during the Second Committee’s meetings of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly at the United Nations headquarters in New York, under Agenda Item 20, Groups of Countries in Special Situations.

Jolo noted that the implementation of the Doha Programme of Action (2022–2031) had reached a critical juncture amid mounting challenges related to debt, development financing, food security, climate change and conflict.

He reiterated Qatar’s commitment to supporting LDCs in achieving sustainable development, citing the country’s hosting of the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries in Doha in March 2023, where Qatar pledged $60 million to support the implementation of the Doha Programme of Action and its outcomes.

He added that Qatar had sought to translate this commitment into practical partnerships and initiatives. In September 2025, the Qatar Fund for Development signed two agreements worth a total of $21 million with the UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS). The agreements aim to support establishment of a food storage mechanism for LDCs and strengthen their resilience, while allocating $10 million to support the Office in implementing the Doha Programme of Action.

Jolo also highlighted Qatar’s hosting of a high-level meeting on Global Partnerships for the Sustainable and Resilient Graduation of Least Developed Countries in December 2025, held in partnership with UN-OHRLLS. He stressed that graduation from the LDC category should represent a sustainable development transition.

He explained that preparations were underway at all levels for the high-level meeting to conduct the midterm review of the Doha Programme of Action, scheduled to take place in Doha from March 25 to 27, 2027, in accordance with UN General Assembly Resolution 80/150. Qatar views the review as a key international milestone for assessing progress, identifying gaps, renewing political and financial commitments, and agreeing on practical measures for the second half of the programme’s implementation, he said.

Jolo stressed that the success of the Doha Programme of Action is a shared responsibility that requires renewed international solidarity and more ambitious partnerships to help LDCs address structural challenges, achieve sustainable and inclusive development, and build resilience.

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Minister of State at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Takes Part in Opening Session of Geneva Peace Forum

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva | October 12, 2026

HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi participated in the opening session of the Geneva Peace Forum on Monday.

In his inaugural remarks, HE Al Khulaifi noted the importance of rules and standards governing mediation for peace, highlighting that, in terms of the State of Qatar’s experience in mediation, these rules and standards have become more important than ever.

Mediation isn’t merely a matter of bringing two parties into the same room; rather, it rests on trust, impartiality, confidentiality, inclusivity, and a genuine commitment to a peaceful settlement, HE Al Khulaifi said.

He added that these aren’t merely theoretical principles, but practical conditions that allow parties to take risks in pursuit of peace, test compromise solutions, and remain engaged in the negotiation process, even when reaching an agreement seems elusive.

HE the Minister of State noted that there are things that must be protected, notably the principles of mediation, the space for mediation itself, and multilateral peacebuilding efforts.

Wars being fought today are rarely settled by a decisive victory and are rarely resolved conclusively, HE Al Khulaifi remarked, explaining that the path to victory has narrowed and the path to agreement has nearly closed.

He said mediation is the means by which that path is kept open. For this reason, the space available for mediation must be protected. He also noted that dialogue requires a safe and secure political and physical space, and that the parties must be confident that entering negotiations won’t expose them to new risks.

HE Al Khulaifi explained that the pressures the State of Qatar has faced haven’t weakened its commitment to mediation; rather, they have further strengthened it.

  The more difficult dialogue becomes, the greater the need for mediation. And the more fragile the rules and standards governing mediation become, the greater Qatar’s responsibility to defend them, he said.

HE the Minister of State emphasized that the United Nations should remain focused and ready to defend mediation when it is at risk. He highlighted that this aligns with the United Nations Charter itself, as Article 33 provides for negotiation and mediation as means of the peaceful settlement of disputes.

Peaceful settlement isn’t an ad hoc measure within the international system or something external to it; rather, it is one of its fundamental pillars.

HE Al Khulaifi called on the international community to advance more rigorous rules and standards, as well as stronger legal guarantees to protect mediators. He reemphasized that such protection is in everyone’s interest: insofar as people are expected to help end wars, measures must also be in place to ensure their safety.