Category: English

Posted on

Temporary lane closures on the R21

Source: Government of South Africa

Temporary lane closures on the R21

The South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited (SANRAL) has advised road users of the temporary lane closure of the two fast lanes on the National Road R21, Section 2 Northbound (km 0.3), at Olifantsfontein.

The lane closure is due to the rehabilitation of a sinkhole and will end on 30 April 2026. 

These closures are necessary to facilitate the rehabilitation and road repair thereafter.

“We advise road users to plan their trips accordingly during this essential sinkhole rehabilitation, adhere to the traffic accommodation signage and the flag persons advanced warnings. 

“It is not only for your own safety but also that of the construction personnel on site. SANRAL apologises for any inconvenience caused and the roads agency remains committed to improving the safety and quality of our national roads,” SANRAL’s Gauteng Provincial Head Progress Hlahla said. –SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

49 views

Posted on

Gauteng Education engages scholar transport providers 

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng Education engages scholar transport providers 

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has acknowledged challenges currently affecting the province’s Scholar Transport Programme which has resulted in some service providers halting operations and negatively affecting learners.

The halting of operations on Monday also contributed to low attendance at some schools.

The department said it has been actively engaging scholar transport service providers to address outstanding payments and has emphasised its commitment to fulfilling payments of all outstanding invoices.

In a statement on Tuesday, the GDE appealed to service providers to ensure the continuous and uninterrupted transportation of learners under the programme while it works within available financial processes to finalise payments accordingly.

While the matter is being resolved, the department has advised schools to implement appropriate academic recovery measures to ensure that teaching and learning remains on track.

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane emphasised that the safety of learners remains a priority. 

“Indeed, safety, access, and well-being of learners remain a priority. We will continue to engage all affected stakeholders and resolve the impasse, and we are confident that these engagements and commitments will enable operators to resume services. 

“We remain committed to collaboration and constructive engagements with our stakeholders in resolving any matters that may arise. To this end, we encourage all our stakeholders to always engage with us on issues they face within the sector,” Chiloane said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

50 views

Posted on

National Minimum Wage to rise to R30.23 per hour from March 

Source: Government of South Africa

National Minimum Wage to rise to R30.23 per hour from March 

Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth has announced an increase in the statutory National Minimum Wage (NMW) for 2026, raising it from R28.79 to R30.23 for each ordinary hour worked.

“The 1st of March 2026 is the date on which this amendment shall become binding. The R1.44 upward adjustment will benefit all workers, including vulnerable farm workers and domestic workers,” the Minister said in a statement on Tuesday. 

Excluded from the NMW increase are workers employed under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). Due to EPWP workers being employed under a special dispensation, their adjustment will rise from R15.16 per hour to a minimum wage of R16.62 per hour. 

Workers who have concluded learnership agreements contemplated in section 17 of the Skills Development Act, 1998 (Act No. 97 of 1998), are entitled to the allowances contained in Schedule 2. The rates on learnerships will be published on the departmental website.

The National Minimum Wage is South Africa’s labour market statutory requirement. The National Minimum Wage Act came into effect in 2019. In terms of the legislation, employers are obligated to pay workers a minimum amount per hour, and the NMW is subject to an annual review.

Any violations of the Act are subject to fines enforced by the inspectorate. The wage is enforced by the Department of Employment and Labour and the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).

“The NMW is the floor which an employer is legally obligated to remunerate employees for work done. No employee shall be paid below the National Minimum Wage. It cannot be varied by contract, collective agreement or law; and it is also an unfair labour practice for an employer to unilaterally alter hours of work or other conditions of employment in implementing the NMW,” the department said in a statement on Tuesday. 

In terms of the latest NMW adjustments, the rates in the Sectoral Determination for areas and rates, work categories for the Contract Cleaning Sector, as well as those of the Wholesale and Retail Sector, are also made available on the departmental website (www.labour.gov.za).

The NMW Act applies to all workers and their employers except members of the South African National Defence Force, the National Intelligence Agency and the South African Secret Service.

It also does not apply to a volunteer who is a person who performs work for another person and who does not receive, or is not entitled to receive, any remuneration for his or her service.

The National Minimum Wage does not include allowances such as transport, tools, food or accommodation, payments in kind (board or lodging), tips, bonuses and gifts, among others. – SAnews.gov.za

 

DikelediM

89 views

Posted on

Courts are playing a growing role in ending female genital mutilation, new research finds

Source: APO

Courts are emerging as a critical frontline in the fight to end female genital mutilation (FGM). Over the past two decades, international recognition of FGM as a human rights violation has grown, alongside a shift toward criminal bans. A new report by Equality Now (www.EqualityNow.org) – with legal research support facilitated through the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s global pro bono service, TrustLaw – reveals how women’s rights advocates and FGM survivors are increasingly using strategic litigation to strengthen implementation of laws, close legal gaps, and defend hard-won protections from rollback.

Towards Justice: Global Challenges and Opportunities in Litigating Cases of Female Genital Mutilation (https://apo-opa.co/4rzdxio), outlines lessons from strategic litigation in Burkina Faso, India, Kenya, Liberia, The Gambia, and the United States. The report also analyses barriers to justice in ten countries: Australia, Burkina Faso, Egypt, France, Kenya, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Uganda, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Equality Now’s Divya Srinivasan explains, “By examining how the law works in practice, we can better understand how to harness it effectively. Our research finds that strategic litigation is one of the most powerful ways to challenge FGM by exposing gaps in protection, setting legal precedents, and driving wider reform. But litigation alone is not enough. To deliver real justice and lasting change, it must be backed by well-implemented, sufficiently funded enforcement of laws alongside legal systems that shield survivors from harm.”

Female genital mutilation is a global problem

FGM is internationally recognised as a serious human rights violation involving the partial or complete removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. The practice is associated with severe physical and psychological problems, and stems from gender inequality.

UNICEF estimates that 230 million women and girls (https://apo-opa.co/4asXCw6) are impacted by FGM globally. Equality Now and its partners have collated evidence of FGM in 94 countries (https://apo-opa.co/4qhwrZV), but of these, only 59 have a specific law prohibiting the practice, and considerable improvement is needed to ensure better access to justice and support for survivors.

Strategic litigation can strengthen access to justice for FGM survivors

Strategic criminal, civil, and constitutional litigation can strengthen state responses to FGM by exposing systemic failures and clarifying the law, setting legal precedents, and driving legal and policy reforms that have an impact beyond individual cases.

Strategic litigation can empower survivors to speak out and seek remedies. High-profile prosecutions raise public awareness that FGM is a socially and legally unacceptable form of violence against women and girls. Other survivors are encouraged to come forward, and critical conversations are sparked within affected communities, helping drive social change that prevents future harm.

Crucially, strategic litigation can compel States to uphold their human rights obligations to protect women and girls, particularly where national protections are weak or political will has faltered. It also assists civil society advocacy efforts by equipping them with legal instruments and authoritative court rulings that facilitate campaigning, prevention work, and accountability for FGM.

An illustration of a country’s obligations being clarified under constitutional and international law is the 2025 ruling by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court against Sierra Leone, where FGM remains widespread. The judgment specified Sierra Leone’s binding legal duties, calling on the country to criminalise FGM, adopt measures to prevent and prohibit the practice, protect those at risk, compensate survivors, investigate cases, and prosecute perpetrators.

Defending FGM legal protections against rollback

Strategic litigation can be critical in preventing rollback of legal protections. In Kenya, coordinated legal action successfully defended the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act after a constitutional challenge sought to legitimise the practice by framing it as a matter of consent, culture, and bodily autonomy. The High Court’s 2021 ruling preserved one of the strongest anti-FGM laws in Africa and reaffirmed that such arguments cannot override the rights of women and girls.

Similar arguments are now being tested in The Gambia. After lawmakers rejected a bill in 2024 seeking to repeal the ban on FGM, the law is now being challenged before the Supreme Court on constitutional grounds. If the Court rules in favour of repeal, it would set a dangerous precedent by prioritising religious or cultural rights above the fundamental human rights to equality, dignity, and freedom from violence. Such a decision could weaken protections for women and girls in The Gambia and embolden efforts to roll back anti-FGM laws elsewhere.

Legal gaps and systemic failures in prosecuting FGM

Despite the number of countries with anti-FGM laws, prosecution for FGM remains rare, with weak enforcement of laws and legal loopholes undermining the ability to bring cases to court. Reporting of FGM is low, partly due to stigma, fear, and weak victim and witness protection. Other concerns include poor investigations, mishandled evidence, and limited political or institutional prioritisation of FGM cases.

These shortcomings are compounded by delays in investigations and court proceedings, alongside inaccessible court processes. For the few cases that do make it to court, justice is far from guaranteed, and in some instances, inconsistent or lenient sentencing fails to reflect the seriousness of the harm caused.

Survivors often experience stigma, intimidation, discrimination, and re-traumatisation during court proceedings. In some contexts, a lack of survivor-centred approaches has contributed to survivors themselves being criminalised under the very laws meant to protect them.

Judges, prosecutors, police, healthcare professionals, and social services often lack adequate training on FGM and relevant legal frameworks. This lack of understanding contributes to cases being poorly handled and laws being incorrectly applied.

Poor enforcement of court decisions allows perpetrators to avoid meaningful consequences despite conviction. This undermines the credibility of the justice system, contributes to a broader pattern of impunity, and discourages survivors from pursuing legal action.

A multi-sectoral approach to ending FGM

Governments must strengthen and clarify laws to ensure that all forms of FGM are explicitly prohibited and existing legislation is well enforced. This includes pursuing investigations effectively, ensuring sentencing reflects the gravity of the crime, and enforcing court rulings consistently. Targeted investment in professional training is needed to improve evidence handling, case management, and survivor-sensitive responses.

Laws work best when paired with prevention efforts that address the root causes of FGM. Ending this harmful practice requires a multi-sectoral approach that combines legal action with health, education, child protection, and community-based responses.

Underfunding undermines efforts to implement FGM laws. Sustained public investment, awareness-raising, and community engagement are essential. Survivors need access to free legal aid and support services. Civil remedies must also be guaranteed, allowing individuals to seek compensation, protection orders, or other forms of redress through the civil courts, independent of criminal proceedings.

Kathryn Beck, Head of Legal for TrustLaw at the Thomson Reuters Foundation, commented, “Legal pro bono has a unique power to support the critical missions of organisations such as Equality Now. We hope that this important report lays the groundwork to strengthen anti-FGM laws and empowers frontline professionals working to protect the rights of women and girls around the world.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Equality Now.

Notes to editors:
For media enquired contact
Tara Carey
Global Head of Media
Tcarey@equalitynow.org
+44 (0)7971556340 (WhatsApp)

Aakasha Saxena
Communications Officer
asaxena@equalitynow.org

About Equality Now​:
Equality Now is a worldwide human rights organisation dedicated to securing the legal and systemic change needed to end discrimination against all women and girls. Since its inception in 1992, it has played a role in reforming 120 discriminatory laws globally, positively impacting the lives of hundreds of millions of women and girls, their communities and nations, both now and for generations to come.

Working with partners at national, regional and global levels, Equality Now draws on deep legal expertise and a diverse range of social, political and cultural perspectives to continue to lead the way in steering, shaping and driving the change needed to achieve enduring gender equality, to the benefit of all. For more details, go to www.EqualityNow.org and LinkedIn Equality Now. For more information about FGM around the world, please see our 2025 report, The Time Is Now: End Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting, An Urgent Need for a Global Response – Five Year Update (https://apo-opa.co/3ZcTlqn).

About The Thomson Reuters Foundation​:
The Thomson Reuters Foundation is the corporate foundation of Thomson Reuters, using its expertise in media, law, and data to advance free, fair, and informed societies. Through journalism, legal support, and research, the Foundation works to uphold human rights, foster transparency, and promote inclusive economies.

Its global pro bono service, TrustLaw, is the world’s largest network of legal professionals providing free legal assistance to NGOs, social enterprises, and independent media in over 190 countries. By facilitating access to legal support and producing pioneering legal research, TrustLaw helps strengthen civil society and drive systemic, lasting change. For details, go to www.Trust.org, LinkedIn Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Media files

.

Posted on

Advisor to Prime Minister, Official Spokesperson of Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Qatar Continues Diplomatic Efforts to Reduce Tensions in the Region

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, February 03, 2026

Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari affirmed that the State of Qatar continues its diplomatic efforts at the highest levels to reduce tensions in the region and to promote a return to the negotiating table, considering it the only path to achieving regional security and stability.

Dr. Al Ansari stated during the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’weekly press briefing Tuesday that communications are ongoing and continuous between HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and HE President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, alongside the visit made by HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, to the Iranian capital, Tehran, as part of efforts aimed at ensuring de-escalation and maintaining stability in the region.

He added that these efforts are not limited to Qatar alone, but involve multiple regional parties, amid extensive regional communications witnessed in recent days, aimed at reducing tension and preventing a return to escalation, emphasizing that these communications continue intensively during the current hours and days, despite the inability to discuss details of future meetings at this time.

Regarding the Rafah crossing, the Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that Qatar issued a statement considering the recent step positive, yet insufficient, noting that the permanent goal has been the full opening of the crossing, ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid, the normal movement of citizens, and enabling international parties to carry out their humanitarian role.

He reaffirmed Qatar’s rejection of using the Rafah crossing in any negotiations or political process, stressing that obstructing the evacuation of more than twenty thousand medical cases in urgent need of treatment constitutes a complete crime against humanity.

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that Qatar works closely with all concerned parties, whether the European Union mission or its mediation partners, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, alongside other regional and international parties, to continue pressure toward the full opening of the Rafah crossing.

In the context of mediation efforts, Dr. Al Ansari indicated during the briefing that current movements focus on the second phase of the Gaza agreement, with a warning about the dangers of continued humanitarian deterioration in the Gaza Strip.

He noted that measures taken so far have not addressed the crisis in Gaza, particularly regarding the entry of equipment needed to remove rubble, construct temporary housing units, as well as medical evacuations, citizen movement, and the entry of food and medicine. 

On the Iranian file, the Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the issue as “extremely complex,” noting that past years witnessed numerous attempts to reach a consensus formula that would lay the foundation for a more secure and stable region.

He said the existing challenges cannot be reduced to a single issue; what is required now is a comprehensive return to a new negotiation track where all files are placed on the table.

He added that Qatar’s current focus is on moving the region from a state of tension, mutual statements, and escalation to a new negotiation phase involving all regional partners, affirming the continuation of joint efforts without excluding any country, reflecting a collective international will to de-escalate the region.

He pointed out that Qatar has believed from the outset that all disputes should be resolved through dialogue and negotiations, warning that delays in this regard lead to increased risks and tensions, negatively affecting the peoples of the region.

Dr. Al Ansari reiterated that sitting at the negotiating table is the only solution to avoid conflicts, noting that all international efforts are directed toward this goal.

He emphasized the importance of regional relations, noting that Qatar and Iran share geography, history, and common interests in the Arabian Gulf and energy fields, which necessitates adopting dialogue as the sole path forward toward peace and de-escalation.

The Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Qatar has taken all necessary precautions regarding the current regional escalation and is closely monitoring ongoing developments, pointing out that Qatar continuously works with its partners, with a primary focus on diplomatic solutions at this stage.

Dr. Majed bin Mohammed Al Ansari also highlighted the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ key activities over the week, noting that HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met last Saturday in Tehran with HE Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ali Larijani, where the two sides discussed ongoing efforts to reduce regional tensions.

He added that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs also reaffirmed Qatar’s support for all initiatives aimed at de-escalation and peaceful solutions to enhance security and stability in the region.
He noted that His Excellency received last Thursday HE Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs of Senegal Cheikh Niang, where they discussed regional developments and ways to strengthen efforts to consolidate security and stability in Africa.

He also mentioned that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs received, Monday, HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Benin Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs conducted several phone calls in recent days with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs of the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt Dr. Badr Abdelatty, and with HE Prime Minister of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria Sifi Ghrieb.
He added that HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs held a phone call last Sunday with HE Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah, during which His Excellency extended congratulations on his appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait.

He noted that HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi chaired last Saturday Qatar’s delegation during the ministerial session of the 2nd Arab-India Cooperation Forum held in New Delhi, India, noting that His Excellency participated in a meeting with HE Prime Minister of the Republic of India Narendra Modi, which included all ministers attending the session. 

Dr. Al Ansari noted that HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met on Thursday with HE Secretary-General of the International Civil Defense Organization Arguj Kalantarli and HE Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan and Resident Coordinator for Humanitarian Affairs Nderika Ratwathe. Her Excellency also met on Monday with HE Executive Director of the International Center for Transitional Justice (ICTJ) Fernando Travesi.

He noted that HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairsآ Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi visited the Republic of Lebanon on Monday, pointing out that during his meeting with HE President of the Republic of Lebanon General Joseph Aoun, His Excellency delivered a written message from HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, pertaining to issues of common interest between the two countries and strengthening relations between them.
He noted that HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met during his visit to the Republic of Lebanon with HE Prime Minister Dr. Nawaf Salam, Army Commander General Rodolphe Haykal, and HE Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri.

Dr. Al Ansari pointed out that HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had confirmed during a joint press conference with HE Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Lebanon Dr. Tarek Mitri that this visit comes as a confirmation of the State of Qatar’s firm and unwavering stance in standing by Lebanon and its fraternal people, especially in light of the delicate circumstances and current challenges facing the region.

He indicated that His Excellency announced during the press conference that the State of Qatar is providing development and humanitarian support to the Republic of Lebanon, with a total value of USD 434,248,000, benefiting more than 1.5 million people, through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD). This package includes a contribution of up to USD 400 million to support the energy sector, and extends to include support for a number of vital sectors, especially the education sector by providing a number of scholarships, and supporting the capabilities of the Lebanese army by providing military vehicles and equipment, in addition to supporting the sports sector.

In the same context, the Advisor to the Prime Minister and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs pointed out that, under the directives of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Lebanese Army received last Thursday 37 vehicles provided by the State of Qatar, through the QFFD, representing the first batch of a total grant of 162 vehicles allocated to support the Lebanese military establishment.

He noted that HE Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairsآ Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi delivered a written message from HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani to HE President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung, during his visit to the Republic of Korea on Wednesday. His Excellency also met during the visit with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea Cho Hyun and HE National Security Adviser of the Republic of Korea, Wi Sung-lac.

He noted that HE the Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met on Friday with HE Secretary General of the National Security Council (NSC) of the Kingdom of Thailand Chatcai Bangchuad, while His Excellency met on Monday, with HE Minister ofآ Foreign Affairsآ of the Republic ofآ Beninآ Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.

Dr. Al Ansari indicated that a round of political consultations was held on Tuesday between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and Hungary, where the Qatari side was headed by HE Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, while the Hungarian side was headed by HE Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy and Political Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary Henrietta Balajthy.

He noted that the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo and theآ Alliance Fleuve Congo / March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) signed on Monday the terms of reference stemming from the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. This occurred during the meeting of the Ceasefire Oversight and Verification Mechanism between the two parties, hosted by Doha, as part of its efforts to resolve the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The two parties renewed their commitment to the ceasefire and the Doha Framework Agreement for Peace signed between them in November. 

Posted on

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Receives Phone Call from Italian Deputy PM and Foreign Minister

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, February 03, 2026

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani received Tuesday a phone call from HE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Italian Republic Antonio Tajani.

During the call, they discussed the cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and strengthen them, the latest developments in the region, in addition to a number of topics of mutual interest.

The two sides also stressed the importance of intensifying regional and international efforts to reduce escalation and tension in the region through dialogue and peaceful means to consolidate regional security.

Posted on

Qatar, Hungary Hold Round of Political Consultations

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, February 03, 2026

A round of political consultations was held in Doha today between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and Hungary.

The Qatari side was headed by HE Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi, while the Hungarian side was headed by HE Deputy State Secretary for Security Policy and Political Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Henrietta Balajthy.

During the consultations, bilateral relations and ways to support and strengthen them were discussed.

Posted on

Equatorial Guinea, Chevron Sign Aseng Agreement, Strengthening GEPetrol Participation

Source: APO


.

The Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, in partnership with energy major Chevron, has officially signed the Heads of Agreement (HoA) for the financing of GEPetrol’s participation in the Aseng Gas Project in Block I. Demonstrating the partners’ commitment to unlocking innovative financing solutions and maximizing state participation in strategic projects, the agreement paves the way for accelerated development phases at Equatorial Guinea’s broader Gas Mega Hub.

The African Energy Chamber, the voice of the African energy sector, salutes the agreement, as it reflects how partnerships between national oil companies and international operators can strengthen state participation while accelerating gas monetization.

Under the terms of the agreement, GEPetrol increases its stake in the project from 5% to 32.55%, ensuring stronger national participation in the exploitation of the country’s natural resources. Gas volumes from Aseng are expected to underpin the technical and commercial viability of multiple downstream and upstream developments under the Extended Gas Mega Hub initiative, including the Alen Tail, Yoyo-Yolanda, new drilling in Chevron-operated blocks and potential cross-border gas flows through Gulf of Guinea pipeline infrastructure. In this context, the HoA functions as an enabler, unlocking a portfolio of projects rather than advancing a single field.

Crucially, the agreement secures long-term gas supply to the Punta Europa complex, maximizing the use of existing LNG and processing infrastructure. This improves cost efficiency, reduces stranded gas risk and strengthens Equatorial Guinea’s competitiveness as a gas monetization hub at a time when regional demand and LNG flexibility are increasingly prized.

“This agreement represents a strategic step forward for our energy sector, enhancing national participation and opening the door for further projects that will drive industrial development, create jobs and strengthen energy security for our country and the region,” said Antonio Oburu Ondo, Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development of Equatorial Guinea.

The signing ceremony took place at the People’s Palace in Malabo, with senior government officials, Chevron executives and the United States Ambassador in attendance. It also follows months of negotiations initiated after the Vice President’s 2025 visit to the United States, reflecting strong coordination between the government, GEPetrol, Chevron and international partners. The project is expected to generate long-term economic benefits and reinforce Equatorial Guinea’s role as a key energy player in the Gulf of Guinea.

From an investor perspective, the HoA sends a clear signal on policy direction. It demonstrates coordinated execution between the state, the national oil company and an international major, as well as the government’s willingness to adopt flexible financing solutions to accelerate development. As global gas markets prioritize reliability, infrastructure access and regional integration, Equatorial Guinea’s approach positions it as a stabilizing supplier in the Gulf of Guinea. The Aseng HoA does not merely strengthen GEPetrol’s balance sheet position; it reinforces the country’s ability to convert gas resources into industrial growth, export capacity and cross-border energy cooperation.

The Aseng project is being developed by Chevron (operator) alongside GEPetrol, Glencore and Gunvor.  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Posted on

We run writing workshops at a South African university: what we’ve learnt about how students are using AI, and how to help them

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Peet van Aardt, Coordinator: Initiative for Creative African Narratives (iCAN) & Lecturer: Academic Literacy, University of the Free State

Much is being said about the wonders of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is the new frontier. And while it provides amazing possibilities in fields like medicine, academics are debating its advantages for university students. Peet van Aardt researches student writing and presents academic writing workshops at the University of the Free State Writing Centre, helping students to build clear arguments, summarise essay structure and express their opinions in their own voice. He also spearheads the Initiative for Creative African Narratives (iCAN), a project that assists students in getting their original stories published. Here he shares his experiences and thoughts on the use of generative AI at university.

What are your biggest concerns about the growth of AI-generated material from students?

The use of generative AI to compose assignments and write essays is widely reported, and its potentially detrimental effects on critical thinking and research are clear.

My biggest concern is that it takes away academic agency from students. By that I mean it takes the proverbial pen out of our students’ hands. If they over-rely on it (which we see they tend to do), they no longer think critically and no longer express their own voices.

Student voice might be lost when AI does the writing. Clout, Unsplash, CC BY

This is particularly important in African universities, where student voice and the intellectual contribution of students to society are drivers of social change and decolonisation.

How can you tell if a text is written by a student or is AI generated?

Flawless grammar and clichés are the first two signs. Generic, shallow reasoning is another. Finally, the generative AI answer does not tend to relate well to topics set in a local context.

If I take student short stories that have been submitted to our iCAN project as an example, I see more and more tales set in some unnamed place (previously, students’ stories often took place in their own towns) or adventures experienced by characters named Stacey, Rick, Damian or other American-sounding people.

Another example: third year students studying Geography were asked to write a ten page essay on the history and future of sustainability and how it applied to Africa. To guide them, the students were referred to a report that addresses challenges in sustainability. What we saw during our consultations in the writing centre were texts that discussed this report, as well as relevant topics such as “global inequality and environmental justice” and “linking human rights, sustainability and peace” – but nowhere was South Africa even mentioned. The students clearly prompted their generative AI tool to produce an essay on the first part of the assignment instructions.

Writing workshop. Author provided (no reuse)

Also, it’s quite easy to determine whether somebody did their own research and created their own arguments when they have to reflect on it.

When students don’t understand the text of their essay, it’s a sign that they didn’t produce it. As academics and writing coaches we increasingly encounter students who, instead of requiring help with their own essay or assignment, need assistance with their AI-produced text. Students ask questions about the meaning and relevance of the text.

Writing centre consultations have always relied on asking the students questions about their writing in an attempt to guide them on their academic exploration. But recently more time needs to be spent on reading what the students present as their writing, and then asking them what it means. Therefore, instead of specifics, we now need to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.

Not all students use generative AI poorly. That is why I still believe in using AI detection tools as a first “flag” in the process: it provides a place to start.

What interventions do you propose?

Students should be asked questions about text, like:

  • Does what it is saying make sense?

  • Does this statement sound true?

  • Does it answer the lecturer’s question?

In some instances teaching and learning is moving back to paper-based assignments, which I support. If possible, we should let students write with pens in controlled environments.

It’s also becoming more important to reignite the skill of academic reading so that students can understand what their AI assistant is producing. This points to the importance of reading for understanding, being able to question what was read, and being able to remember what one has read.

Generative AI is quite western and northern-centric. I believe we in academia have an opportunity to focus, where possible, on indigenous knowledge. Students should be encouraged to reflect on indigenous knowledge more often.

Lastly, academics should not over-rely on generative AI themselves if they don’t want their students to do so. As student enrolment numbers rise, time is becoming a rare luxury for academics, but we cannot expect students to take responsibility for their learning when we want to take shortcuts in our facilitation.

Have you changed your approach given these insights?

We have been revisiting our workshop materials to include more theory and practice on reading. Well-known strategies like the SQ3R method (to survey, question, read, recite and review a text) and the PIE approach (understanding that paragraphs Point to a main idea, support this by Illustration and Explain how and why the writer supports the main idea) are infused, along with various activities to ensure students apply some of these.

Our one-on-one consultations between students and trained, qualified academic writing experts continue to be integral.

If we as academics want to continue facilitating the learning process in students – and truly put them at the centre of education – we have to empower them to think critically and express themselves in their own voices.

– We run writing workshops at a South African university: what we’ve learnt about how students are using AI, and how to help them
– https://theconversation.com/we-run-writing-workshops-at-a-south-african-university-what-weve-learnt-about-how-students-are-using-ai-and-how-to-help-them-273286

Posted on

South Africa: Walter Sisulu University Flags Department of Higher Education for Development Setbacks

Source: APO


.

Walter Sisulu University yesterday raised concerns that delays in its development were being driven by a lack of cooperation from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

The Portfolio Committee on Higher Education is currently conducting oversight visits to post-school education institutions in the Eastern Cape to assess their state of readiness for the 2026 academic year.

During the engagement, the Chairperson of the university’s Council informed the committee that DHET had declined to allow the university to use approximately R100 million in interest earned from long-standing unused infrastructure funds. The university had intended to use these funds to refurbish university-owned student residences.

The university also indicated that demand for placement continues to far exceed capacity. In the 2026 academic year, the university received approximately 500 000 applications but only has space to accommodate about 7 000 students.

The committee also noted with concern that the university did not own the land on which the university is built; it is owned by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. This lack of ownership limits the university’s ability to develop and improve its facilities as it does not have the tittle deed.

Chairperson of the committee, Mr Tebogo Letsie, said the matter requires urgent inter-departmental engagement. “This is not a challenge unique to Walter Sisulu University. It is a sector-wide problem that is negatively affecting the development of institutions. We will engage the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure to find sustainable solutions,” said Mr Letsie.

Meanwhile, the committee welcomed the university’s investment in water infrastructure, particularly in light of the ongoing water shortages in the area. “We are encouraged by the proactive steps taken by the university to address water challenges, which are critical for both learning and student accommodation,” Mr Letsie added.

The committee and the university jointly expressed concern over the absence of the Director-General of DHET during the oversight engagement. The committee noted that this absence was disappointing, especially at a time when the sector is facing serious challenges that normally occur during the first weeks of the academic calendar.

The committee commended the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for its preparedness for the 2026 academic year, with funding decisions finalised well in advance. Mr Letsie praised the intervention, noting the socio-economic context of the institution. “We commend NSFAS for a job well done. This support is critical for WSU students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds and rely heavily on financial assistance,” he said.

However, the committee raised concerns about the state of the university’s ICT infrastructure, after observing slow and outdated computer systems. “The current ICT infrastructure does not meet the needs of a modern university. We are recommending that DHET’s skills branch work closely with the university to secure funding to urgently improve ICT capacity,” Mr Letsie said.

The committee will today, 3 February 2026, continue with the second leg of its oversight programme with a visit to the East Cape Midlands TVET College at its Graaff-Reinet Campus.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.