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SANParks reopens hiking trail on Table Mountain

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 1, 2025

The South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the second phase of the reopening of Silvermine Gate 1 and most of the trails in the Silvermine area on Table Mountain on Monday.

This follows the successful reopening of Silvermine Gate 2 and areas of Tokai on 1 July after the fire in late April 2025 that affected approximately 2 800 hectares in the area.

Located in the central section of the Table Mountain National Park, Silvermine offers some of the best hikes in the park with beautiful fynbos landscapes.

“Upper Tokai will also reopen on 1 September 2025, including Levels 4 and 5, which were previously closed in July due to unstable terrain during the rainy season. However, a section of the road from the Silvermine boom gate to the junction of Level 4 and 5 will remain inaccessible to cyclists, as rehabilitation efforts are still ongoing,” SANParks said.

The Donkey Trail from Silvermine to Upper Tokai and the Level 1 and 2 Jeep tracks for horseback riders will remain closed until further notice due to severe rain damage.

Silvermine Gate 1, located on the western side of Ou Kaapse Weg, which includes the Silvermine Dam, the Elephant’s Eye trail and the Silvermine Riverwalk, will be officially open to the public. 

“Maintenance work will continue in certain areas, including the construction of new ablution facilities. Visitors will be able to make use of the ablution facilities located at the entrance gate and near the western side of the dam until the burnt facilities near the dam parking can be reconstructed. The uThango braai area will remain closed and is expected to reopen in December 2025, pending ongoing restoration of the infrastructure.

“Although some trails may seem visually unaffected, access is being restricted in specific areas to ensure user safety and support ecological restoration efforts. Public safety is our top priority,” SANParks said.

Therefore, all trail users are urged to strictly adhere to signage, area closures, and instructions from rangers. 

Visitors must remain vigilant and stick to designated paths at all times.

“To ensure the safe reopening of these areas, SANParks is conducting Safety Awareness Campaigns as it welcomes visitors back. SANParks appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as we work towards safely restoring access to these important areas.” –SAnews.gov.za

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Government extends fishing permits for small pelagic sector

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 1, 2025

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has extended permits for the Small Pelagic sector due to review applications brought before the Western Cape High Court on the finalisation of appeals in the 2021/22 Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP).

The department had originally aimed to complete this process by 29 August 2025. 

However, later court orders required adjustments to this timetable. Following consultation with stakeholders, the new deadline for finalisation is 30 October 2025.

“By extending permits and engaging openly with stakeholders, we are safeguarding stability in the sector while honouring the principle of fairness. Our goal is to build trust, certainty and sustainability for the fishing communities who depend on these resources,” Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George said.

The Minister said fairness and transparency are non-negotiable in the allocation of fishing rights.
“That is why we must follow due process and resolve all legal matters before finalising decisions that affect rightsholders and the sustainability of our fishery. 

“Because allocations in this sector are interconnected, final decisions on rights and quantum can only be made once all appeals have been reconsidered and comments on the Provisional Sardine and Anchovy Appeals Reconsideration General Published Reasons (GPRs) have been taken into account,” George said. –SAnews.gov.za
 

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Global Research, Academic Institutions Join African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO


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As global research firms expand access to market intelligence, their role in shaping Africa’s mining sector has become increasingly influential. By providing critical data and insights, these institutions are helping African governments design investor-attractive policies, supporting investors in identifying high-potential opportunities and enabling companies to make evidence-based strategic decisions.  

The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders, scheduled for October 1–3, 2025 in Cape Town – will connect research institutions with industry leaders, policymakers and global stakeholders. Speakers from leading research and academic institutions have joined this year’s event, set to drive collaboration and growth. 

African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Kiana van Vuuren, Director and Head of Mining at Moore Global – a knowledge partner of AMW 2025 – will participate in the panel Women Pioneering Leadership in Africa’s Mining Industry. van Vuuren is expected to share data-driven insights on the state of women’s participation in the sector as well as broader trends on Africa’s mining industry growth, revenue generation and investment flows.  

Christopher Vandome, Senior Research Fellow for the Chatham House Africa Program, will join the Mineral Traceability: Reshaping Global Supply Chains and Geopolitical Influence panel. Vandome is expected to highlight global best practices and technologies for enhancing transparency, traceability and sustainable governance in Africa’s mineral supply chains. 

Lawrence Bbosa, Executive Manager of the Mineral Processing Division at Mintek, is anticipated to spotlight South Africa’s efforts to build a globally competitive mining workforce. Bbosa is expected to focus on how the country is leveraging a blend of local expertise and international partnerships to address industry challenges and unlock new mining sector opportunities. 

Nils Backeberg, Co-Founder and Director of Project Blue, will speak on the Critical Minerals: Driving Renewable Development in Africa panel. Backeberg is expected to offer insights on the trends shaping Africa’s cobalt, lithium, copper, rare earths and platinum group metals sectors, linking these to global shifts driven by the energy transition and fourth industrial revolution.  

AMW will also feature Colin Coleman, Adjunct Associate Professor of Business at the Columbia Business School. Coleman is expected to present the university’s findings on how improved governance, legal frameworks, supply chain optimization, and the integration of ESG certification can collectively enhance the growth of Africa’s mining industry. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Speech by HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs At The High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Palestinian Cause and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution

Source: Government of Qatar

 

His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia;

 His Excellency Mr. Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the friendly Republic of France;

 His Excellency the Secretary-General of the United Nations;

 His Excellency the President of the General Assembly;

 Your Excellencies;

Distinguished attendees;

I would like to begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, and to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for their joint initiative in organizing this historic conference under the auspices of the United Nations. This conference addresses one of the prolonged issues of peace and security, and one of the last remaining manifestations of colonial injustice on the international agenda.

Distinguished attendees,

Although this conference represents a glimmer of hope, we are navigating a critical juncture in the region, amidst a devastating war waged by Israel on the Gaza Strip for two years and an escalating humanitarian crisis affecting over two million individuals, the majority of whom are women and children.

In one of the most harrowing and painful moments of this tragedy, we witnessed scenes that represent a disgrace to humanity as a whole—civilians, weakened by starvation and siege, killed while standing in queues waiting for a loaf of bread, a bag of flour, or a meal to sustain their children. What future can be built upon the corpses of the starving queues? And what peace can emerge amidst this level of starvation, humiliation, and killing?

In the face of this catastrophic situation, the State of Qatar has spared no effort in undertaking diplomatic endeavors to halt the bloodshed of innocent lives, alleviate their suffering, and secure the release of hostages and detainees. The State of Qatar, based on its unwavering stance, has condemned all forms of targeting civilians. However, we categorically reject double standards, as a human is a human, and a child is a child. No one has the right to discriminate against innocent people and their right to life based on political, racial, or other grounds.

The matter has reached the point where the normalization of using starvation and targeting hospitals as methods of warfare has become a precedent that can no longer be accepted, as if it has turned into a routine practice in every conflict. The State of Qatar reiterates its unequivocal rejection of the use of food as a tool of pressure or a weapon in conflicts, and strongly condemns the policies of blockade and forced displacement being practiced against innocent civilians, as well as the repeated targeting of hospitals, shelters for displaced persons, and vital facilities, in blatant violation of international law.

Excellencies, 

The mediation efforts undertaken by the State of Qatar, in partnership with the sisterly Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America, have yielded tangible results, manifested in the delivery of substantial quantities of aid and the release of hundreds of hostages and detainees from both sides.

Despite recurring obstacles, attempts to undermine the humanitarian trajectory, and the demonization of the efforts of mediating states, our efforts continue with the aim of achieving an immediate ceasefire, paving the way towards the end of the crisis, and the initiation of recovery and reconstruction efforts. This necessitates that all parties exhibit a sense of responsibility and support all initiatives aimed at achieving this goal. 

Distinguished attendees, 

The war against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip has not only resulted in unprecedented suffering for innocent civilians, but has also undermined the credibility of international law and the universal values upon which the institutions of the international community have been founded since the Second World War.

On the other hand, it has proved that policies of force have failed, and will continue to fail, in liquidating the Palestinian cause. All that such policies have achieved is the exacerbation of further tragedies, bitterness, feelings of injustice, and scenes of killing and destruction that will remain etched in the memory of peoples across the globe. The calamities caused by the war and its political failure underscore the necessity of achieving a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian cause. The key lies in acknowledging the injustice inflicted upon the Palestinian people and implementing justice that has been delayed for approximately eighty years.

Driven by its unwavering commitment to peace, the State of Qatar reaffirms its full support for the objectives of this conference and its dedication to playing an active role in ensuring its success and promoting opportunities for a peaceful resolution in the Middle East.

In this context, the State of Qatar, in collaboration with Canada and Mexico, co-chaired the third working group of the conference, which focused on the theme of “Peace Narratives.” This group addressed significant topics and concluded with priority principles and proposals aimed at achieving the overarching goal of the conference. To create an enabling environment for sustainable peace, there is a pressing need to promote positive narratives that support peace between both sides, grounded in the rejection of violence, the refusal of incitement rhetoric, and the countering of attempts to dehumanize the other party.

Distinguished attendees, 

The State of Qatar reaffirms its steadfast position in supporting the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian cause in accordance with the principles of international law and relevant international legitimacy resolutions, based on the two-state solution as the only viable option for putting an end to the conflict and achieving the just and comprehensive peace.

From this standpoint, Qatar calls for a clear and unified international stance that rejects all practices that serve to obstruct negotiations and opportunities for achieving just and comprehensive peace. In this context, we welcome the recognition of the State of Palestine by several states, within the borders of June 4, 1967, encompassing the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, as we firmly believe that this constitutes a fundamental step toward achieving regional and international security and stability.

We also welcome the commitment of the friendly French Republic to recognize the State of Palestine next September.

Distinguished attendees, 

The convening of this conference embodies a collective will of the international community to translate words into actions and to seriously contribute towards advancing the trajectory of the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian cause in all its dimensions. The international community bears a pivotal role in creating the appropriate conditions for reaching a permanent and just solution, by restoring the credibility of international legitimacy following this horrific war and providing the necessary political, economic, and humanitarian support.

We hope that this conference will serve as a turning point leading to tangible commitments that go beyond statements and positions, and pave the way for practical steps toward implementing the two-state solution, in a way that ensures a just, comprehensive, and lasting resolution to the conflict, and contributes to the establishment of peace, security, and stability across the entire region.

Thank you,

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African Mining Week (AMW) to Feature Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Malawi, South Sudan, Zimbabwe and Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) Ministers

Source: APO


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As more African governments introduce investor-friendly laws to enhance mining frameworks, the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 will bring together several African mining ministers to showcase opportunities across their jurisdictions.

Confirmed ministerial participants include Martin Gama Abucha, Minister of Mining, South Sudan (https://apo-opa.co/4fYrotI); Winston Chitando, Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Zimbabwe; Kenneth Zikhale Reeves Ng’oma, Minister of Mining, Malawi (https://apo-opa.co/4gckcdJ); Khadidja Hassane Abdoulaye, Secretary of State for Petroleum, Mines and Geology, Chad; Teddy Lwamba, Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC); Emmanuel Kofi Buah, Ghana’s Minister of Lands and Natural Resources and Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

AMW will feature the Ministerial Forum which will include South Sudan’s Abucha, Zimbabwe’s Chitando, Malawi’s Ng’oma, Ghana’s Buah and Egypt’s Badawi. The forum will highlight how strategic policies, investment incentives and infrastructure plans are accelerating beneficiation and industrialization across Africa. Malawi is emerging as a key player in critical minerals, securing $12 billion in Chinese investments in June 2025 alone – reflecting growing investor confidence and the country’s resource potential. South Sudan, for its part, is experiencing a surge in international interest, partnering with investors from Russia, Qatar, the U.S., and South Africa to advance geological mapping and exploration efforts. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its position as a key global supplier of lithium, with new project launches and investments. Ghana is implementing a five-pillar strategy to strengthen its position as Africa’s largest gold producer and the world’s sixth largest while a five-pillar strategy – led by Minister Badawi – seeks to unlock Egypt’s gold, potash and phosphate potential.

With the World Bank estimating that Africa’s mining sector could generate an additional $2 billion in revenue and create 3.8 million new jobs by 2030 through localized value addition, AMW 2025 arrives at a critical moment. Chad’s Abdoulaye will join a panel titled Africa’s Mineral Future: A Roadmap Toward Sustainable Growth and Value Creation which will highlight strategies to boost sustainable development in the sector. Meanwhile, DRC’s Lwamba will feature in the Cobalt Opportunity: DRC’s Strategic Position in the EV Revolution panel, emphasizing the country’s strategic role in the global energy transition and its efforts to leverage energy infrastructure to unlock its estimated $24 trillion in mineral wealth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

About African Mining Week:
African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com

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Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej met the Mauritius Minister of Gender Equality & Family Welfare to share the impact of their programs to address critical social issues like supporting girl education and Ending Gender Based Violence

Source: APO – Report:

  • During the visit to the country, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Mauritius President to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health.
  • Dr. Rasha Kelej during her meeting with the Mauritius President, strengthened partnership to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare and Empower Women in STEM.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany met Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare during a high-level meeting, to share the impact of their programs and underscore their long-term commitment to address critical social issues in Mauritius.

During her visit, she also met H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, to share the impact of their 100 Scholarships for Mauritian Doctors in partnership with Ministry of Health and underscore their long-term commitment to transform public healthcare in Mauritius.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign emphasized, “It was a great honor to meet Hon’ble Ms. Marie Arianne Navarre-Marie, Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare and share with her the impact of our partnership and programs since 2017 that aim to transform patient care, build healthcare and media capacity, to empower women in STEM, support girl education and raise awareness about social and health issues in Mauritius and the rest of Africa.

I am very happy to share that together with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, we are launching our Educating Linda Program in the country, as a part of which we will be supporting the education of 20 high performing yet underprivileged Mauritian schoolgirls, till they graduate. Through this, we will be empowering them to complete their studies and reach their full potential.”

Merck Foundation has provided 100 scholarships for Mauritian doctors in 42 critical and under-served specialties.

“During my meeting with H.E. MR. DHARAMBEER GOKHOOL, The President of Republic of Mauritius, we also discussed the possibility of providing specialized training for Mauritian doctors in innovative and emerging fields such as Stem Cell Therapy in pathology, CAR T-cell treatment, AI in Radiology, Radiotherapy and Medical Oncology, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Neurology, Nephrology, Urology, and Neurosurgery. We are strongly committed to work closely with Ministry of Health to improve access to innovative and equitable healthcare solutions”, added Dr. Kelej. 

The 100 scholarships for local Mauritian Doctors have been provided for One-Year PG Diploma and Two-year Master Degrees in many critical specialties including Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Oncology, Preventative Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Acute Medicine, Respiratory, Gastroenterology, Dermatology, Neuroimaging for Research, Sexual & Reproductive Care, Clinical Microbiology and infectious diseases, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Ophthalmology, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Critical Care, Neonatal Medicine, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Advanced Cytopathology and many more.

Merck Foundation has so far provided more than 2280 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties, with many of them becoming the first specialists in their countries.

During her visit, Merck Foundation CEO also met the Senior Officials from the Office of Hon’ble Minister of Health, Mauritius.

Merck Foundation also conducted the 4th Edition of their Health Media Training for the Mauritian Media Representatives in partnership with Ministry of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius. The training session was conducted to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift with the aim to address wide range of social and health issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, Stopping GBV, Diabetes and Hypertension awareness. It was co-chaired by Merck Foundation CEO and Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Mauritius.

During the training session, the Call for Application for 8 important Merck Foundation Awards were announced for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

The award announced are:

  1. Merck Foundation Africa Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: 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 2025.

  1.  Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: 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 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: 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 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: 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 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”, in partnership with Media Trust Board, Mauritius: 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 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards 2025 “Diabetes & Hypertension”, in partnership with Academy of Design and Innovation, Mauritius: 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 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards 2025 “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 2025.

  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards 2025 “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 2025.

Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at:

submit@merck-foundation.com

For information on the above awards, please visit our website:

www.Merck-Foundation.com

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Additional Images: https://apo-opa.co/4naBydj

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:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4n3WxhN
X: https://apo-opa.co/4ncwF3z
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/3UNw38l
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4mYLAhA
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4mwTmzk
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/41tvxA4
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4n9O5xG

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4n3WxhN), X (https://apo-opa.co/4ncwF3z), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4mYLAhA), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3UNw38l), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4mwTmzk) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/41tvxA4).

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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Bold Sports and SnagInspector partner to power fan experience at Super Eagles vs Rwanda World Cup qualifier in Uyo

Source: APO – Report:

Bold Sports (https://BoldSportsng.com/), Nigeria’s homegrown digital-first sports media brand, today announced a landmark partnership with SnagInspector, the building solutions and real estate safety platform from SpaceCube Africa.

The collaboration will enhance on-ground and digital fan engagement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Rwanda’s Amavubi at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Fans across Nigeria will enjoy co-branded activations, on-ground coverage, and digital content designed to bring them closer to the action while promoting safer homes and communities nationwide.

“We are thrilled to welcome SnagInspector as our partner for this defining moment in Nigerian football. At Bold Sports, our mission is to create fan-first storytelling that unites communities. Working with a brand that champions safety and quality in our living spaces adds a powerful new layer to that mission.” Tosin Oluwalowo, CEO, Bold Sports said.

“At SpaceCube Africa, we believe the same values of safety, trust, and quality that guide our work in construction should also shape the communities where Nigerians come together to celebrate football, Testimony Asegunmute, MD, SpaceCube Africa said. “This partnership with Bold Sports allows us to connect with fans in a meaningful way, uniting passion for the game with our mission to build safer homes and cities.”

Through this partnership, Bold Sports and SnagInspector will:

  • Deliver immersive stadium experiences, exclusive giveaways, and co-branded digital content for Nigerian football fans.
  • Promote awareness about safe spaces, quality construction, and informed homeownership.

Since its launch, Bold Sports (https://BoldSportsng.com/) has pioneered digital-first, fan-centered sports coverage, from the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations to the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, reaching millions of Nigerian sports enthusiasts across platforms. Guided by its motto – Boldly Nigerian. Passionately Sporty. – Bold Sports is building the future of Nigerian sports storytelling.

SnagInspector, the digital arm of SpaceCube Africa, is a trusted authority in property diagnostics, quality construction, and real estate safety advocacy. With a vibrant online presence and over ₦15 billion in property-related losses prevented for Nigerian families, SnagInspector sets new standards for transparency, accountability, and consumer empowerment.

– on behalf of Bold Sports.

Media Contacts:
For Bold Sports
Email: admin@boldsportsng.com
Call or WhatsApp: +2347047933646
https://BoldSportsng.com/

For SpaceCube Africa / SnagInspector
Bolutife 
Email: hello@spacecubeafrica.com
Call or Whatsapp: +234 704 324 1117
www.SpaceCubeAfrica.com

Social Media:
Bold Sports
Instagram: @ boldsportng (https://apo-opa.co/4g41x3F)
Facebook: Bold Sports (https://apo-opa.co/3VezWn3)
X: @ boldsportsng (https://apo-opa.co/4fYxhao)
TikTok: @ boldsports_ng (https://apo-opa.co/4fZl8Sx)

SpaceCube Africa / SnagInspector: 
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4n7IE22
TikTok: https://apo-opa.co/45Joiqi
X: https://apo-opa.co/3UQqRR4

About SpaceCube Africa:
SpaceCube Africa is a leading construction and real estate solutions company, dedicated to sustainable design, quality assurance, and client-centric delivery across Nigeria. With a portfolio of more than 50 projects across diverse sectors, the company is pioneering technology-driven practices that raise industry standards. Learn more at www.SpaceCubeAfrica.com.

About Bold Sports:
Bold Sports is Nigeria’s leading digital sports media platform, providing high-quality, data-driven coverage of Nigerian athletes at home and abroad. Through video, storytelling, and real-time engagement, Bold Sports connects a passionate community of fans with the moments that matter — from grassroots to global competitions.

With a bold, multimedia-first approach, we celebrate Nigeria’s sporting excellence and foster national pride across generations and geographies.

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KZN signs agreement with Christian Council to tackle social ills

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, September 1, 2025

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has signed a landmark co-operation agreement with the KwaZulu-Natal Christian Council (KZN CC), signalling a decisive shift towards structured collaboration between government and the faith sector to confront some of the province’s most urgent social challenges.

Signed in Pietermaritzburg on Friday, the agreement establishes a strategic partnership aimed at addressing crime, poverty, food insecurity, homelessness, and moral decline through coordinated, province-wide interventions.

Grounded in practical and measurable actions, the partnership is built upon four key pillars, including:
•    Food security – Promoting community-based agriculture through the establishment of gardens on church and residential land, with government support in the form of fencing, seeds, tools, and technical assistance.
•    Crimefighting and survivor support – Providing survivors of crime with psychosocial and legal support via trained counsellors and advisors, while launching peacebuilding initiatives across all 11 district municipalities.
•    Shelter and rehabilitation for the homeless – Identifying underutilised government buildings and church facilities to offer shelter, alongside structured rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.
•    Moral regeneration and community mobilisation – Driving values-based community engagement and social renewal through faith-led initiatives, in collaboration with relevant provincial departments.

Ntuli emphasised the significance of the strategic value of the agreement, noting that with a membership base exceeding 3.4 million across KwaZulu-Natal, the KZN CC is well-positioned to mobilise grassroots support and foster meaningful, community-driven transformation.

“This partnership is a bold step towards restoring the moral compass of our society. The church has always been a beacon of hope and healing. Through this agreement, we are empowering it to lead in rebuilding communities and fostering peace and dignity across KwaZulu-Natal.

“This agreement reflects the KwaZulu-Natal government’s unwavering commitment to working with all sectors of society to create safe, resilient, and morally grounded communities. It is not only a partnership of principle but a call to action — where leadership, faith, and civic responsibility converge to reshape the future of the province,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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United Nations (UN) chief calls for justice and ‘real change’ for people of African descent

Source: APO – Report:

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In a message released ahead of the Day, Mr. Guterres honoured the “extraordinary” contributions of people of African descent across every sphere of human endeavour. The Secretary-General also recognised the “long shadows” of slavery and colonialism, which include systemic racism, unequal economies and societies, and the digital divide (between those who are able to benefit from digital technology, and those who don’t have access).

Mr. Guterres hailed the Global Digital Compact – adopted in 2024 as part of the Pact for the Future, which promotes a multilateral system that reflects today’s realities and delivers for everyone, everywhere – as a step forward, citing commitments to tackle discrimination and hate speech in digital technologies. “White supremacy and dehumanising narratives,” wrote the UN chief, “are amplified by social media, and, too often, racial bias is encoded in algorithms.”

“Eighty years after the United Nations Charter reaffirmed the equal rights and inherent dignity of every human being, and sixty years since the adoption of the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination,” he concluded, “it is long past time to right historic wrongs.”

A decade of action

This year’s International Day is the first to take place during the second International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2034. The decade, which embraces the theme “People of African Descent: Recognition, Justice, and Development,” aims to highlight the importance of acknowledging the rights and contributions of people of African descent. Mr. Guterres has called for the next ten years to drive “real change,” including working towards a United Nations Declaration on the full respect of people of African descent’s human rights.

The first Decade saw more than 30 countries change their laws and policies to tackle racial discrimination and address specific issues faced by people of African descent – in some cases for the first time. The Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, was created, and new International Days were launched to celebrate the contributions of the diaspora, including those of women and girls.

Building on the progress made between 2015 and 2024, the second Decade seeks to amplify global efforts toward justice and development for individuals of African descent and create a more equitable future, in which the aspirations and rights of people of African descent are fully recognised, honoured, and celebrated.

– on behalf of UN News.

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Egypt: Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Reviews Targets for the Agriculture and Irrigation Sector in the Financial Year (FY) 2025/2026 Plan

Source: APO


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  • Agriculture and Irrigation are key pillars for enhancing food and water security and supporting sustainable economic development efforts.
  • 144.8 billion EGP in total targeted investments for the agriculture and irrigation sectors in the FY 2025/2026 plan.
  • Continue expanding agricultural land reclamation programs, improving crop yield per feddan, and increasing water use efficiency.

The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation reviewed the targets for the agriculture and irrigation sector in its report on the FY 2025/2026 plan. The fourth section of the plan details sectoral targets, starting with commodity sectors like agriculture, irrigation, manufacturing, mining, and electricity, followed by productive services sectors, including transport, information and communication technology, tourism, and the Suez Canal activity.

The 2025/2026 plan document uses a unified analytical approach for all sectoral targets. It first reviews the economic importance of the sector, then the specific development vision, ensuring it aligns with the Sustainable Development Strategy: Egypt Vision 2030, the targets of the Government Action Program (2024/2025 – 2026/2027), and the national strategy proposed by the relevant ministry.

H.E. Dr. Rania A. Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, highlighted the dual economic importance of the agriculture and irrigation sector. It serves as a foundational pillar of national food security and a mainstay for enhancing the productive capacities of national industry and its related activities of transport, trade, and logistics services. 

Agriculture is also the primary source of income and employment, given its vast geographical spread and its employment of over 50% of the total population in rural areas, who are primarily dependent on agricultural activities and related animal, poultry, and fish production, as well as transport, storage, and marketing services.

Total Investments for the Agriculture and Irrigation Sectors

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat added that agriculture plays a pivotal role in developing the country’s foreign exchange resources through the export of agricultural products. It also contributes effectively to strengthening its inter-sectoral linkages with other economic sectors, making it a key driver for their growth. The agriculture and irrigation sector is one of the most significant sectors for enhancing the components of sustainable development across its three dimensions: economic, social, and environmental. Minister Al-Mashat noted that the plan allocates total investments of about 144.8 billion EGP to agriculture and irrigation activities in 2025/2026, including 17.5 billion EGP in public investments and 127.4 billion EGP in private investments.

Agricultural Production Targets

The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation’s report indicated the development plan’s targets for 2025/2026. Regarding agricultural output, the plan aims for the sector’s production to reach approximately 3.7 trillion EGP in 2025/2026, up from an estimated 3.3 trillion EGP in 2024/2025, and to grow to 5.7 trillion EGP by the end of the medium-term plan in 2028/2029.

As for agricultural product, the goal is to increase the agricultural product—after excluding the value of intermediate production inputs—to about 2.6 trillion EGP in 2025/2026, reaching 4 trillion EGP in 2028/2029, a growth rate of 53.8%, compared to the expected product of about 2.3 trillion EGP in 2024/2025.

Key Targets in the Agriculture and Irrigation Sectors

The report explained that the priorities for agricultural investment and development in the plan include: continuing the expansion of agricultural reclamation programs in the Toshka, North and Central Sinai, and New Delta lands. Expanding programs to improve crop yield per feddan by 10% to 15%, by increasing the efficiency of land and water use through the cultivation of high-yield, early-maturing, and low-water-consuming crops, developing and modernizing field irrigation systems to benefit 18% of the total area, improving agricultural drainage methods and expanding the application of modern agricultural practices, such as drip and pivot irrigation, expanding greenhouse projects and protected agriculture systems, reducing agricultural waste and developing the agricultural extension system, expanding the application of the contract farming system (1.8 million feddans) to include other agricultural products in addition to wheat, sugarcane, sugar beets, tomatoes, potatoes, and citrus fruits, such as yellow corn, cotton, and oilseed crops (sunflower and soybeans), continuing to activate programs for the production of selected seeds to meet agricultural needs and reduce reliance on imports, which are subject to price fluctuations, quality variations, and potential incompatibility with the Egyptian agricultural environment. Diversifying the origins of agricultural imports—especially wheat and corn—and expanding the storage capacity of wheat silos to reach about 5.5 million tons in the plan year, expanding the cropped area to exceed 21 million feddans in 2025/2026, including wheat (52%), corn (55%), and fava beans (39%), completing the establishment of 18 agricultural complexes in North and South Sinai governorates, as well as developing the agricultural land tenure system (Farmer’s Card) to reach 80% of beneficiaries.

Livestock Development

The plan’s priorities for agricultural investment and development also include continuing to develop livestock, with a targeted increase of one million heads during 2025/2026. It also focuses on developing poultry and fish farming projects to achieve self-sufficiency in white meat and fish, while increasing red meat self-sufficiency to 60%. This will be achieved by continuing to activate projects for revitalizing the veal industry and milk collection centers, fish farms at البركة in Kafr El Sheikh and East Al-Tafri’a in Port Said, and projects to enhance fish resources in Qarun, Manzala, and Burullus lakes. The plan also aims to expand the export of surplus agricultural products, such as vegetables and fruits, to exceed $5 billion in value during the plan year.

Water Resources Development

Complementing agricultural development efforts, the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation’s plan aims to develop water resources and increase their use efficiency by: expanding projects for canal rehabilitation and lining over a length of 600 km, expanding the transition to modern field irrigation systems, constructing and upgrading pumping stations, building dams, artificial lakes, and reservoirs to hold floodwater, completing the construction of the New Deirout Barrage to improve irrigation for 1.6 million feddans in five governorates in Upper Egypt, constructing, replacing, and renovating about 616 barrages and other structures (inlets, bridges, weirs, etc.), constructing 85 dams, artificial lakes, and underground reservoirs to contain floodwater, continuing efforts to rehabilitate drains, including Jabal al-Akhdar, Belbeis, Qalyubia, and Bahr al-Baqar, and their associated structures, to accommodate the discharge of treated sewage stations, completing the development of the Toshka spillway, constructing the feeder canal for the Thomas and Afiya area, 57 km long, in the Toshka project in Aswan, addressing siltation in Lake Nasser, improving water quality in the Kitchener Drain, protecting the coast of Alexandria and reinforcing submerged breakwaters (Phase 1), constructing and replacing covered agricultural drainage networks in an area of 60,000 feddans in both Lower and Upper Egypt, as well as constructing and replacing about 35 industrial structures on drains (bridges, culverts, etc.).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.