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Adopting Strategic Tools for the Prevention and Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Region

Source: APO – Report:

Building a community capable of anticipating health crises, detecting threats early, sharing information quickly, and responding in a coordinated and effective manner.This is the aspiration expressed by the Resident Representative of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, in Togo, Ms. Deweh Emily Gray, on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, in Lomé, the Togolese capital, at the opening of the 11th annual meeting of animal health networks on the theme “Strengthening the Surveillance and Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases in the ECOWAS Region.”

For Ms. Deweh Emily Gray, the choice of this theme speaks for itself, as it reflects ECOWAS’s commitment to protecting animal resources, supporting the economic development of its member states, and promoting regional integration.

Among animal resources, she cited livestock farming, which is a vital component of West Africa’s agricultural economy, noting that it contributes significantly to food and nutritional security and serves as an important source of income for local populations.

“However, this vital sector remains exposed to persistent and re-emerging threats related to transboundary animal diseases, including Small Ruminant Peste (SRP), Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), Foot-and-Mouth Disease, Avian Influenza, and Rabies,” stated Ms. Deweh Emily Gray.

Echoing this sentiment, the Togolese Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty, through his Chief of Staff, Dindiogue Konlani, outlined several approaches to better address these threats.

“In the face of these health threats, no country can succeed on its own. The fight against animal diseases is, by its very nature, a matter of solidarity and collective action,” he suggested.

Both Dindiogue Konlani and Ms. Deweh Emily Gray urged participants to engage in constructive and fruitful discussions that would lead to relevant recommendations for further strengthening the surveillance and control of epizootics.

For their part, the representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Lionel Gbaguidi, and the director of the African Union’s Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-BIRA), Dr. Huyam Salih—represented by the Regional Coordinator for the Control and Eradication of Small Ruminant Peste in West Africa, Dr. Perdita Hilary Lopes—expressed their gratitude to ECOWAS and the Regional Animal Health Center (CRSA) for their consistent leadership in promoting regional cooperation on animal health.

They reiterated their commitment to working with ECOWAS, its member states, and regional institutions to strengthen coordinated action against transboundary animal diseases, support veterinary laboratories, and develop information systems capable of providing reliable data for rapid and coordinated decision-making.

The objectives of this meeting are to consolidate regional animal health governance, strengthen coordination among the various stakeholders, and adopt strategic and operational tools essential for the prevention, early detection, and control of transboundary animal diseases.

Participants include heads of veterinary services, presidents of national veterinary associations, and focal points for the regional networks of animal health laboratories (RESOLAB) and epidemiological surveillance (RESEPI) from ECOWAS and Sahel member states.

Representatives from the Regional Animal Health Center (CRSA), the West African Health Organization (OOAS), and the ECOWAS Regional Disease Control Center, as well as technical and financial partners, are also participating in the proceedings.

In particular, they will review and adopt the electronic platform of the Regional Animal Health Information System (SRISA), developed by the CRSA to improve the collection, analysis, sharing, and use of animal health data for rapid and coordinated decision-making.

On the sidelines of the meeting, a gathering of ECOWAS ministers responsible for animal health will be held to approve regional strategies for the protection and conservation of donkeys by 2030, for the prevention and control of foot-and-mouth disease in West Africa (2026–2030), and for the prevention and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza and related action plans (2026–2031).

This 11th annual meeting of the animal health networks is organized by the Regional Animal Health Center (RAHC), a specialized agency of the ECOWAS Commission. Originally based in Bamako, Mali, it is now located in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.

Established in 2012, the CRSA is responsible for strengthening regional cooperation on animal health and welfare. Its primary mission is to coordinate and harmonize the policies and interventions of ECOWAS member states in the prevention and control of transboundary animal diseases and zoonoses.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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10,000 Delegates Head to Cape Town as African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Drives an African Energy Movement

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Week (AEW) 2026 Conference and Exhibition, returning for its biggest edition yet from October 12-16, is preparing to welcome over 10,000 delegates to Cape Town, reinforcing its position as the premier platform to do business in African energy. More than a conference, AEW has evolved into an African energy movement designed to advance projects, facilitate partnerships and mobilize investment across the entire energy value chain.

The 2026 edition is gearing up to be the most impactful to date, convening international investors, African governments, leading operators and technology developers for five days of dialogue and deals. From dedicated investor forums and project showcases to ministerial discussions, technical stages and networking functions, AEW 2026 will turn Cape Town into the center of African energy dealmaking.

Global Energy Leaders Converge on Cape Town

AEW 2026 is designed to foster greater engagement between international partners and African stakeholders. As such, the event will feature extensive international participation, connecting Africa’s energy markets with companies, financiers and policymakers from across the world. Government representatives from the United States, Europe, Japan, Venezuela, Russia, the Caribbean and Asia are participating, bringing global perspectives to African energy development.

Discussions and deals will also be led by the companies driving global energy investment. Energy majors including ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, bp, Chevron and ConocoPhillips will participate alongside global technology leaders such as SLB, Technip Energies, Halliburton and more. Strategic sessions are geared towards advancing Africa’s position in international markets, including the Russia-Africa Energy Investment Forum; Global Energy Leaders Forum; U.S.-Africa Energy & Investment Forum; OPEC-Africa Roundtables, among others.

African Governments to Shape Next Phase of Energy Development

African governments will take center stage throughout AEW 2026, using the platform to outline policy priorities, promote projects and acreage and engage directly with prospective investors. Hydrocarbon and energy ministers from South Africa, Senegal, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Ghana, Namibia, Niger and more are delivering addresses, reflecting AEW’s position as the official meeting place for Africa’s energy industry.   

Dedicated investment sessions will put individual markets directly in front of investors. Sessions will examine Nigeria’s drive to increase production and revitalize idle wells; Namibia’s path from Orange Basin discoveries to first oil; Mozambique’s LNG and upstream growth; Congo’s oil and gas value chain; Senegal’s gas-led industrialization strategy; Equatorial Guinea’s Mega Gas Hub; and Ghana’s ambitions to scale from extraction to production. National showcases will also highlight Algeria’s 2026 licensing round and Angola’s Gas Master Plan.

One Event, Multiple Platforms for Engagement 

Across five days, delegates can expect a multi-track program covering the full energy value chain. The AEW Townhall, Upstream E&P Forum, Energy Finance Forum, Energy Additions Forum and Downstream & Petchem Forum will examine the commercial, financial and policy questions shaping Africa’s energy future. Renegade Intel will explore the intersection of energy, artificial intelligence, data centers and digital infrastructure, while Power Africa Today will focus on the continent’s electricity sector.

AEW’s technical program will run across The Drill Room and The Innovation Hub, giving companies a platform to showcase technologies and technical solutions. Pre-conference workshops, investor forums, roundtables and masterclasses will further expand opportunities for targeted engagement, while the Deal Room provides a dedicated environment for project sponsors and developers to present active energy and infrastructure opportunities directly to investors and lenders.

Dealmaking Continues Beyond the Conference Floor

AEW 2026 is designed to facilitate engagement beyond formal panel discussions. The Just Energy Transition Concert will kickstart the week with a celebration of energy and music. The African Energy Awards & Gala Dinner will bring the industry together to recognize the projects, companies and individuals advancing Africa’s energy sector, while a series of networking functions – from cocktails to breakfast sessions and showcases – will strengthen relationship-building.

“AEW is Africa’s energy movement. Ten thousand people are coming to Cape Town not simply to talk about Africa’s energy future, but to build it – to finance projects, form partnerships, sign deals and move investment forward. This is where Africa sets its energy agenda and where the people with the capital, projects and authority to deliver it come together,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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African Energy Chamber (AEC) to Launch 2027 Outlook at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, Spotlighting Africa’s Next Wave of Energy Investment

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) will launch the State of African Energy 2027 Outlook Report at African Energy Week (AEW) 2026, by the African Energy Chamber (AEC) in collaboration with S&P Global Energy, and powered by S&P Global Energy data – taking place in Cape Town from October 12–16. The report will present the Chamber’s latest assessment of the continent’s energy markets, investment opportunities and infrastructure priorities. It arrives as Africa navigates shifting global energy markets, renewed upstream investment and growing demand for reliable electricity.

Upstream Investment Enters a New Phase

Africa’s upstream sector is experiencing a cautious investment renewal, with hydrocarbon production expected to reach approximately 11 million barrels of oil per day (bpd) in 2027 before rising to 12.5 million bpd by 2030. Deepwater exploration remains a major growth driver, particularly across frontier and emerging basins, while mature producers confront declining output and aging infrastructure.

The report highlights a changing ownership landscape as international oil companies rationalize portfolios and African independents expand their positions. Companies including Seplat, Oando and Assala are increasingly acquiring assets, while regional financial institutions, Middle Eastern investors and Asian national oil companies are providing alternative sources of capital for African projects.

Gas Moves Beyond Exports

With Africa holding more than 550 trillion cubic feet of known resources and supplying approximately 9% of global LNG volumes in 2025, gas occupies a central position in the Outlook. The report identifies growing opportunities to monetize these resources through LNG, pipelines, domestic consumption and gas-to-power developments.

The Outlook also examines South Africa and Mozambique as case studies for developing LNG import markets, while Libya receives dedicated analysis of its gas resource base, existing infrastructure and regulatory reforms. Across the continent, the AEC emphasizes domestic gas utilization as a pathway to electricity generation, industrialization and broader economic value.

Power Demand Creates Investment Opportunities

Africa’s electricity deficit remains one of the continent’s largest development constraints, with approximately 565 million people lacking access to electricity. The Outlook highlights rising demand from population growth, urbanization and digital infrastructure, while identifying distributed generation, microgrids, gas-fired generation, renewables and regional power pools as critical investment opportunities.

With more than 500 GW of potential capacity reportedly in conceptual planning stages, renewable energy is also creating significant investment opportunities across the continent, according to the Outlook. Solar and wind developments are expected to attract substantial investment, while transmission infrastructure, independent power projects and cross-border electricity trading will be essential to converting generation potential into reliable supply.

Critical Minerals Strengthen Africa’s Strategic Position

The report identifies critical minerals as another major source of investment and industrial opportunity. Africa’s reserves of copper, cobalt, lithium, manganese, PGMs and graphite are attracting growing interest from China, the U.S., Europe and emerging middle powers seeking secure supply chains.

The AEC emphasizes in the report that Africa’s opportunity extends beyond mineral extraction. Developing refining, processing and manufacturing capacity could allow resource-rich countries to capture more value domestically while supporting infrastructure projects such as the Lobito Corridor and Trans-Guinean railway.

A Platform for Africa’s Energy Future

The launch at AEW 2027 will position the State of African Energy 2027 Outlook Report as a key reference point for investors, policymakers and industry stakeholders assessing Africa’s evolving energy landscape. Its central message is that the continent’s energy transition must be grounded in energy access, resource development, infrastructure investment and commercially viable projects.

By bringing together the latest outlook for hydrocarbons, gas, power, renewables and critical minerals, the report provides a strategic framework for identifying opportunities across Africa’s energy economy. Its launch at AEW 2026 will further reinforce the event’s role as a platform connecting African projects with global capital and technology.

Set for October 12–16 in Cape Town, AEW 2026 is fast-approaching, but there is still time to secure your place. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information or email registration@aecweek.com to secure your spot.  

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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All Roads Lead to Namibia: The 7th Canada-Africa Business Conference Returns to Windhoek, 2–4 February 2027

Source: APO – Report:

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The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business (www.CanadaAfrica.ca) is pleased to announce that the 7th Canada-Africa Business Conference will take place in Windhoek, Namibia, from 2–4 February 2027, under the headline sponsorship of B2Gold. The program opens with a site visit to B2Gold’s Otjikoto operations on 2–3 February, followed by a full conference day on Thursday, 4 February — in the days immediately preceding the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town. The Conference is anticipated to be the largest event the Chamber has convened on the African continent in its 33-year history.

During Africa Accelerating 2026, held in Toronto, a point was made that echoed throughout the program: all roads lead to Namibia for the next Canada-Africa Business Conference. “We are so delighted to be returning to Windhoek, and to be doing so with partners who continue to demonstrate what Canada-Africa collaboration can achieve,” said Garreth Bloor, President of The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business.

“Last year we welcomed over 50 Canadian company representatives among the hundreds of delegates – we’ve now doubled capacity for the next event, based on demand,” explained Bloor during the Africa Accelerating conference underway in Toronto this year.

In remarks to the previous Canada-Africa Business Conference in Windhoek, the Prime Minister of Canada, the Right Honourable Mark Carney, recognized the Chamber “for convening leaders from across Canada and Africa” — commending its role in advancing investment, trade and partnership, and in connecting businesses and institutions to drive practical collaboration and shared growth.

“B2Gold is proud to support the Chamber’s largest event on African soil in its 33-year history, and proud that it is taking place in Namibia,” said John Roos, Managing Director of B2Gold Namibia. “Otjikoto has shown what is possible when a Canadian company and a Namibian community build together over the long term, in a country that is a gateway to the African continent. Welcoming business leaders to the mining operations, and to the investments in other sectors that have grown up around them, alongside the launch of the B2Gold Foundation in Windhoek, is our way of inviting others to see that partnership for themselves — and to consider what they might build here.”

Africa Accelerating, the Chamber’s flagship conference taking place in Canada this week, also featured a keynote address by Neil Reeder, Vice President, Government Relations at B2Gold, underscoring how vital B2Gold’s work is as a model for Canada-Africa trade and investment — and for deeper engagement between Canada and African markets.

Individuals who wish to find out more may visit the conference page here (https://apo-opa.co/4zjUsEH).

Registrants who wish to indicate their interest in joining the event may do so here (https://apo-opa.co/4hwRBlL).

– on behalf of The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business.

Links to additional content:
Photos from this year’s conference: https://apo-opa.co/4j9Uavm
This year’s conference that took place: https://apo-opa.co/3TrkbvL

Media Contacts:
The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business:
Press Officer
press@canadaafrica.ca

B2Gold:
Namasiku Nalisa
Corporate Communications Manager
nnalisa@b2gold.com

About The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business:
Established in 1994, The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business is Canada’s leading organization dedicated to promoting trade and investment between Canada and African markets. An independent, non-profit organization, the Chamber’s network spans Canada and Africa, with strong working links to businesses and governments across both.

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The Coca-Cola System and Water Sector Leaders Announce the South Africa Non-Revenue Water Mechanism to Support National Water Security Priorities

Source: APO – Report:

Following a meeting with H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Coca-Cola system (www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) today announced a R500 million public-private partnership aimed at helping address South Africa’s growing water infrastructure challenges and strengthening long-term water security.   

This non-revenue water (NRW) initiative was developed in collaboration with Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, the World Bank Group’s 2030 Water Resources Group (2030 WRG) – which received funding from The Coca-Cola Foundation – the Platform for a Water Secure Gauteng, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS), Rand Water Services, Global Water Challenge (GWC), and the City of Tshwane. It forms part of the Coca-Cola system’s Africa Water Stewardship Initiative (https://apo-opa.co/4y69uwA) and aims to reduce municipal water and revenue losses due to leaks, while unlocking scalable private sector investment in public water systems.                                             

South Africa currently loses an estimated *47% of treated water through leaks, aging infrastructure, and other non-revenue water losses. The initiative directly complements efforts under the National Water Action Plan to improve municipal water delivery, strengthen operational efficiency, and accelerate investment into critical infrastructure.

“Water security is fundamental to South Africa’s economic growth, community resilience, and long-term sustainability,” said Luis Felipe Avellar, President of The Coca-Cola Company’s Africa operating unit. “Beyond its direct impact, the initiative demonstrates how collaborative action can help attract private investment and address critical water sector challenges. It supports the objectives of the National Water Action Plan and provides a scalable, catalytic model that could be replicated across South Africa.”

“This creates an important model for how public and private sector can work together to address infrastructure challenges at scale,” said Sunil Gupta, Chief Executive Officer, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa. “We are committed to being part of the solution through partnerships that strengthen infrastructure resilience and water stewardship.”

The initiative, which follows the recent announcement of a planned R17.6 billion investment in South Africa through 2030 by the Coca-Cola system, will initially focus on targeted operational and infrastructure interventions in Gauteng, with phase one commencing in the City of Tshwane municipal system. Early implementation efforts will focus on leak reduction through pressure management and the installation of infrastructure to improve industrial effluent monitoring and accountability.

“Government welcomes partnerships that support our national commitment to improving water security and municipal service delivery,” said Hon Pemmy Majodina, Minister of Water and Sanitation. “Addressing non-revenue water losses is essential to ensuring sustainable access to water for communities, industry, and future economic growth. Through the work of the National Water Crisis Committee, we continue to drive collaborative solutions that strengthen municipal capacity and accelerate progress in addressing critical water challenges. This initiative demonstrates the value of partnership across government, business, and development partners in advancing a shared national priority.”

The programme also forms part of the Coca-Cola system’s longer-term water replenishment and sustainability goals. Between 2026 and 2031, the initiative aims to mobilize R250 million in investment, matched by Public Sector partners, resulting in a combined R500 million toward Gauteng municipal water infrastructure and NRW reduction initiatives.

The innovative mechanism addresses a significant structural gap in South Africa’s water sector by creating a platform for private sector participation in municipal water infrastructure investment.

“The World Bank Group, as part of our Water Strategy Implementation Plan Water Resources Group (WRG 2030), fully supports collaborative mechanisms that can mobilize investment, technical expertise, and operational capability toward critical development priorities,” said Lubabalo Luyaba, Senior Water Specialist at the World Bank Group. “The NRW programme is a practical demonstration of the municipal trading services reforms agenda, showing how alternative service delivery mechanisms can be used to improve infrastructure performance, reduce water losses, and strengthen the financial sustainability of municipalities.”

Coca-Cola HBC, which has agreed to acquire a majority stake in Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, also supports the effort. Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO of Coca-Cola HBC, said: “This is a very important initiative, and it’s inspiring to see government, business and development partners come together to make a real difference for communities. We look forward to continuing to help build water security across Africa.”

The collaboration is expected to expand into additional municipalities over time, creating a broader framework for infrastructure recovery.

* https://apo-opa.co/4jaoeqx

– on behalf of Coca-Cola.

About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and Santa Clara. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4ybJq3o), Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3Vu0KD6) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/4ybJksy).

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African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson held fruitful meeting this morning with H.E. Mr. Jean Yvan Robert Hungley, Acting President of the Republic of Mauritius

Source: APO – Report:

During his working visit to the Republic of #Mauritius, the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, held fruitful meeting this morning with H.E. Mr. Jean Yvan Robert Hungley, Acting President of the Republic of Mauritius,

The Chairperson expressed his appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him & his delegation during their visit.

During the meeting, the Chairperson commended Mauritius for its political stability, democratic institutions, economic transformation & strong culture of institutional credibility, describing the country as an inspiring example for Africa.

Discussions focused on Africa’s peace & security landscape, the implementation of Agenda 2063 & the continent’s vast economic potential, particularly its young & growing population. They agreed that, with Africa’s population projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, creating jobs, expanding opportunities and investing in Africa’s youth remain central to building a stable, integrated & prosperous continent.

The meeting also highlighted the strategic importance of Mauritius as a bridge between Africa & Asia. They  addressed the need to strengthen connectivity, port infrastructure, logistics, trade & regional supply chains, while advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area & removing barriers to intra-African commerce.

The Chairperson welcomed Mauritius’ contribution to strengthening Africa’s economic & financial architecture, including through the launch of the African Credit Rating Agency (AfCRA), an initiative aimed at strengthening the credibility of African economies through reliable African data & analysis, while enhancing investor confidence.

Chairperson Youssouf also reaffirmed the AU’s solidarity with Mauritius on the Chagos issue, stressing the importance of completing the process of implementation.

Tourism, the blue economy & air connectivity were also discussed as important avenues for strengthening continental integration & people-to-people exchanges.

They reaffirmed the shared commitment of the AU & Mauritius to advancing a more integrated, connected & prosperous Africa; one that harnesses its resources, creates opportunities for its people & takes its rightful place in the global economy.

– on behalf of African Union (AU).

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Session on International Cooperation and Cooperation in Multilateral Forums Held between Qatar and Belgium

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – October 7, 2026

The first session on international cooperation and cooperation in multilateral forums was held today via videoconference as part of the Strategic Dialogue sessions between the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Belgium.

The Qatari side was chaired by Ms. Jawhara bint Abdulaziz Al-Suwaidi, the Assigned with the duties of the Assistant Director of the International Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Belgian side was chaired by H.E. Mr. Pieter Vermaerke, Director for Humanitarian Aid and Peace at the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the session, the two sides reviewed frameworks for cooperation between the two countries in the humanitarian and development fields, as well as cooperation in international forums and organizations, and discussed efforts to strengthen and develop such cooperation, in addition to a number of issues of mutual interest.

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FuturePHARMA to bridge scientific discoveries gap

Source: Government of South Africa

FuturePHARMA to bridge scientific discoveries gap

While South Africa has the scientific expertise to develop innovative pharmaceutical products, it needs stronger capabilities to take promising discoveries from the laboratory into clinical testing, manufacturing and ultimately into the hands of patients.

This was the message emerging from speakers at the launch of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) FuturePHARMA facility in Tshwane on Wednesday. The facility is positioned as a critical bridge between scientific discovery and a stronger local pharmaceutical industry. 

CSIR Group Executive for Advanced Chemistry and Life Sciences, Dr Rachel Chikwamba, said South Africa remains heavily dependent on imported active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), with about 98% of the APIs used to make medicines locally imported.

This, she said, leaves the country’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector vulnerable to external shocks, inflation in input costs and fluctuations in foreign exchange. She added that South Africa has strong capabilities in early stage research, but these capabilities weaken when innovations need to be translated into products that can be scaled safely and efficiently.

“The vision of Future Pharma is to close the gap. How can we ignite a thriving, inclusive local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry?” Chikwamba said. 

The first phase of FuturePHARMA focused on building the translational capability needed to take research through product development and into clinical testing, while laying the foundation for increased local pharmaceutical manufacturing.

A second phase will focus on scaling these capabilities and developing strategic capacity to strengthen the healthcare system, meet day-to-day needs and improve preparedness for future pandemics.

Building the bridge from science to patients

Chikwamba said the facility will bring together the infrastructure, skills and expertise needed to support process development, product development, analytics, quality systems and regulatory development.

This will allow promising concepts and prototypes emerging from South Africa’s innovation ecosystem to progress towards clinical testing and, ultimately, full-scale manufacturing.

Chikwamba said the CSIR has drawn on lessons from more than two decades of investment in research and manufacturing infrastructure, including its experience in biomanufacturing.

The CSIR’s Biomanufacturing Industry Development Centre has demonstrated how infrastructure can be used to train a skilled workforce, while supporting the development of products, and services and growing the biotechnology industry.

The CSIR has subsequently been recognised by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention as a regional manufacturing capability and capacity development hub, while the World Health Organisation has designated it as an African biomanufacturing training hub. 

The facility will have two major capability areas. The first is a small-molecule product and process development facility, focusing on medicines, such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs, through conventional batch chemistry, flow chemistry and biocatalysis, supported by digital capabilities. 

The second is a biopharmaceutical product and process development capability, which will focus on protein-based medicines and other biopharmaceuticals, including vaccines, pharmaceuticals and factors produced using plant systems, yeast expression systems and mammalian cell culture. 

Today’s launch programme included demonstrations of some of these capabilities, including small-molecule pilot products, giving guests an opportunity to see the infrastructure and technologies being developed at the facility.

Open-access platform for researchers and industry

Chikwamba said FuturePHARMA was designed as an open-access national capability rather than a facility intended solely for the CSIR.

“It is to ignite the system by availing these capabilities to our researchers in the universities, in other research councils and industry itself, so that they can take their products from just concepts into the clinic and beyond,” she said.

The facility is intended to support entrepreneurs and emerging businesses by providing access to infrastructure, technical expertise, regulatory support, skilled personnel and manufacturing capabilities without requiring them to make significant investments in their own facilities at the earliest stages of development.

Entrepreneurs will be able to test their ideas, establish whether products are viable, develop technology packages and produce initial runs for market testing.

They will also be connected to businesses, funders and other industry players.

Chikwamba said this model can help to create a pipeline of new pharmaceutical businesses, while developing the skilled workforce required by the growing African pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

SAHPRA commits to enabling local production

For the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), FuturePHARMA represents an opportunity to strengthen the regulatory and manufacturing ecosystem supporting local production.

SAHPRA CEO Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela said local manufacturing is not simply an industrial objective but directly linked to access to medicines and health security.

“The COVID-19 pandemic … reminded us that countries and regions with limited manufacturing capacity can become vulnerable when global supply chains are disrupted,” she said. 

SAHPRA has adopted a policy position aimed at enabling local manufacturing, while maintaining the required standards for quality, safety and therapeutic efficacy.

Under a policy published in 2025, SAHPRA supports locally manufactured health products through shorter evaluation timeframes and reduced assessment fees, while maintaining rigorous regulatory standards.

Semete-Makokotlela said the regulator intends to work closely with the CSIR, as FuturePHARMA develops the regulatory authorisation required for its operations.

“We were able to demonstrate this as we supported the mRNA [messenger ribonucleic acid] vaccine manufacturing platform. We are here today to communicate our intention to the CSIR that we will partner with you, we will support you, and there will be a moment where we will wear the hat of [the] police (sic),” Semete-Makokotlela said. 

She said enabling local production cannot be achieved by the regulator alone and requires alignment between science, industry, financing, procurement, trade, health policy and regulation. 

This is particularly important against the backdrop of medicine shortages in South Africa, with patients sometimes unable to access medicines because of disruptions to global supply chains.

SAHPRA is already working with the CSIR and other national regulatory authorities on the continent through the regional biomanufacturing hub hosted by the CSIR. 

Semete-Makokotlela said the partnership will also extend to training regulators in small-molecule manufacturing, building on existing collaboration in biological products.

WHO backs stronger African manufacturing capacity

The World Health Organisation (WHO) representative to South Africa, Dr Shenaaz El-Halabi, said FuturePHARMA can help to address a longstanding challenge of translating scientific discoveries into medicines that are available, safe, effective and affordable.

She said the facility also supports Africa’s broader ambition to take greater responsibility for its health security.

“For a patient waiting for treatment, scientific progress means a medicine that is available when needed, safe and effective and affordable.”

El-Halabi said dependence on external supplies can leave countries vulnerable when global production is disrupted or international demand increases sharply, as experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.

She highlighted the importance of partnerships between government, research institutions, industry, regulators, health services and international organisations in building sustainable local production.

The WHO framework for strengthening local production of medicines, vaccines and other health technologies in the African Region for 2025 – 2035, calls for a holistic approach that includes research and development, innovation hubs, technology transfer and partnerships.

Under this approach, governments can align industrial development with public health priorities, research institutions can contribute discoveries and skills, industry can bring manufacturing expertise, while regulators ensure the quality and safety of products.

El-Halabi also highlighted the CSIR’s growing role in developing Africa’s biomanufacturing workforce.

“Sandbox” for preparedness

Looking ahead, Chikwamba described FuturePHARMA as a “sandbox”, a controlled environment where the country can test not only its ability to develop and manufacture safe products, but also the logistics, supply chains and technical systems needed to respond to health emergencies.

The facility will maintain active capabilities by producing products required by the innovation ecosystem and continually training its workforce.

This, she said, will ensure that the country does not only build infrastructure during a crisis, but maintains a ready capability before the next emergency occurs.

She said a maintained capability will allow the country to identify a threat, activate the necessary response, and mobilise the platform more rapidly.

“Our response rate will be faster. We will not be waiting in line … to get products from other [countries],” Chikwamba said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Conference focuses on stronger public finance leadership

Source: Government of South Africa

Conference focuses on stronger public finance leadership

Public finance leaders and governance experts have called for stronger accountability, ethical leadership and innovation to rebuild public trust and strengthen the delivery of services in South Africa. 

The call was made at the 97th Annual Chartered Institute of Government Finance Audit and Risk Officers (CIGFARO) Conference, currently underway at Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. 

Held under the theme: “Reimagining Public Finance Leadership for a Changing South Africa”, the three-day conference, which kicked off on Tuesday, brings together public sector leaders, finance professionals, governance experts, auditors, risk practitioners, policymakers, and strategic stakeholders from across South Africa to engage on the future of public finance leadership and institutional transformation. 

The conference also provides a dynamic platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration and knowledge sharing on critical issues shaping the public sector landscape. 

CIGFARO President Louise Muller said the organisation remains committed to promoting ethical conduct, technical excellence and lifelong learning among professionals working in public finance. 

“CIGFARO has been a professional organisation, championing ethical conduct, technical excellence, and lifelong learning in a sector that is fundamental in South Africa’s democracy,” Muller said. 

Minister of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), Mzamo Buthelezi, told delegates that transparent and accurate financial reporting is essential to restoring confidence in public institutions.  

“Report honestly — your books must be clear. You will then have restored faith that public finance officials can be trusted. This is a history of stewardship, and this is how generations will judge you,” Buthelezi said. 

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Thulasizwe Buthelezi, said sound public finance management should translate into tangible improvements in people’s lives.

“When budgets are passed, it is our intention to make a tangible difference, uplift the vulnerable, drive economic growth, and make sure every rand is accounted for,” the MEC said. 

He called for agile, inclusive and data-driven approaches to public finance, with greater emphasis on long-term sustainability rather than short-term gains.

EThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba said the conference theme reflects the challenges facing local government, where municipalities are expected to deliver services amid constrained resources, growing infrastructure demands, rising community expectations and financial pressures.

“Modern leadership must connect finance, infrastructure, technology, revenue management, and operations. Infrastructure is both balance sheet and street. Deterioration of municipal assets is a financial and service-delivery risk. Deterioration is outpacing replacement and upgrading capacity,” Xaba said. 

The first day of the conference focused on digital transformation, resilience in public finance, women in leadership and the Municipal Standard Chart of Accounts.

The conference also features an exhibition area where delegates can engage with organisations and stakeholders working in the public finance and governance sectors.

President of the Global Federation of Public Finance Associations Grace Martinez is among the special guests attending the conference, marking her first visit to Durban. – SAnews.gov.za

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President launches FuturePHARMA facility to strengthen SA’s health sovereignty

Source: Government of South Africa

President launches FuturePHARMA facility to strengthen SA’s health sovereignty

South Africa has taken a major step towards securing its health system with the launch of FuturePHARMA.

President Cyril Ramaphosa on Wednesday launched the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) FuturePHARMA facility in Tshwane. He described the launch as a significant step towards strengthening South Africa’s pharmaceutical capabilities and advancing the country’s health sovereignty. 

The President officiated the unveiling and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the CSIR Campus in Waterkloof before taking part in a guided walkthrough of the facility. 

During the walkthrough, President Ramaphosa was taken through key areas of the facility and received demonstrations of its advanced pharmaceutical development technologies and specialised capabilities. 

“It is a pleasure to be here today for the launch of the FuturePHARMA facility. This is truly a milestone in South Africa’s journey towards health sovereignty,” President Ramaphosa said.

FuturePHARMA is an open-access pharmaceutical innovation and manufacturing facility that provides specialised infrastructure and expertise to researchers, innovators and industry partners working to develop pharmaceutical technologies, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

The facility is intended to help bridge the gap between laboratory research and the development, scale-up and commercialisation of pharmaceutical technologies, while supporting technology transfer and skills development.

The President said the facility reflects government’s commitment to using science, technology and innovation to strengthen the country’s industrial capabilities, health security and long-term development.

“The FuturePHARMA facility signals our resolve as South Africa to harness science, technology and innovation in pursuit of sustainable development.

“It signals our resolve to grow our industrial capabilities and to achieve meaningful health security and sovereignty,” he said.

Lessons from COVID-19

President Ramaphosa said the COVID-19 pandemic had underscored the importance of countries developing their own scientific, technological and manufacturing capabilities.

The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities associated with dependence on global supply chains for critical health products, while demonstrating the close relationship between health security, economic resilience and national development.

“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us many lessons, chiefly that developing economy countries need to strengthen local scientific, technological and manufacturing capabilities if they are to safeguard the health of their people.

“The pandemic was a reminder that health security, economic resilience and national development are interconnected,” he said.

Against this backdrop, FuturePHARMA is intended to create a more connected ecosystem linking research and technology development with process development, clinical development, regulation, manufacturing, investment and procurement. 

From laboratory research to commercialisation 

The President’s guided tour of the facility provided an opportunity to see these capabilities in operation, with scientists, researchers, engineers and technical specialists demonstrating key aspects of the pharmaceutical development platforms.

“It has been quite an experience to tour the facility and witness first-hand the advanced technologies, pharmaceutical development platforms and specialised capabilities that have been established here.

“I have had the opportunity to engage with the many scientists, researchers, engineers and technical specialists whose expertise and commitment have helped bring this vision to life,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said South Africa has a strong history of scientific achievement and possesses significant scientific and innovative talent.

However, he noted that scientific excellence needs to be matched by mechanisms that allow promising ideas and discoveries to progress beyond the laboratory.

“Yet, scientific excellence alone is not enough. Too many promising innovations struggle to move from the laboratory into further development, commercial production and broader social application. That is the challenge FuturePHARMA has been established to help address,” he said.

The facility will provide specialised infrastructure for pharmaceutical process development, scale-up and technology transfer, occupying an important space between laboratory research and commercial manufacturing.

It is also intended to help promising technologies move towards clinical, regulatory and commercial pathways.

President Ramaphosa emphasised that FuturePHARMA is not intended to operate as a conventional commercial pharmaceutical manufacturing facility.

Instead, its value lies in providing shared infrastructure and expertise that may otherwise be too specialised or costly for individual researchers, universities and emerging companies to establish independently.

“By making these capabilities available to a broader community, FuturePHARMA can strengthen the connection between research, technology development, scale-up and manufacturing,” he said.

Government collaboration critical

The President said the success of FuturePHARMA would depend on strong partnerships between government, universities, research councils, industry, regulators, investors and other stakeholders.

He stressed the need for government departments and institutions to work together because the pharmaceutical value chain cuts across several mandates.

The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation has the responsibility of research, innovation, technology development, skills and strategic research infrastructure, while the Department of Health leads on health priorities, medicines and vaccines.

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition plays a central role in industrial development, localisation, investment and manufacturing, while National Treasury is important to public financing and sustainability.

Regulatory institutions, including the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority, are also critical to ensuring pharmaceutical products can move through appropriate regulatory pathways.

“Our strategies, investments and programmes must reinforce each other,” President Ramaphosa said.

He said initiatives such as the emerging Pharmaceutical Roadmap and the Vaccine Innovation and Manufacturing Strategy should connect South Africa’s research and technology capabilities to national health priorities, industrial opportunities and market demand.

“We are building a connected system in which each institution and investment contributes to a common national objective,” he said.

Strengthening the African pharmaceutical value chain

President Ramaphosa said South Africa’s ambitions extended beyond its borders, noting the emphasis placed by the African Union and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention on local manufacturing as part of the continent’s health security and sovereignty agenda.

He said South Africa is well positioned to contribute to regional pharmaceutical value chains through its research institutions, universities, regulatory capabilities and manufacturing capacity.

“FuturePHARMA supports this ambition by creating opportunities for collaboration with African researchers, institutions and companies,” he said.

The facility will form part of a broader network of investments aimed at strengthening South Africa’s pharmaceutical development, health innovation and manufacturing capabilities.

President Ramaphosa said established manufacturers and companies would continue to play an important role, with facilities such as FuturePHARMA and manufacturers such as Biovac contributing different capabilities across the broader pharmaceutical value chain.

Investing in skills, innovation and jobs

The President said investment in infrastructure must be accompanied by investment in people, partnerships and institutions.

FuturePHARMA is expected to contribute to skills development, while creating opportunities for researchers, innovators and companies to take technologies further along the development pipeline.

“Through FuturePHARMA, South Africa is investing not only in infrastructure but in knowledge, innovation and industrial capability.

“We are investing in the partnerships, skills and institutions that will allow that infrastructure to create lasting value for the nation and the continent,” the President said.

President Ramaphosa said creating pathways from research and innovation to technologies, enterprises, products and industries is important to advancing inclusive growth and employment.

He said government remains committed to creating an enabling environment through investment in strategic research infrastructure, human capability and stronger links between research and industry.

“This facility stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when government, academia and industry come together in pursuit of a common purpose,” he said. 

President Ramaphosa congratulated the CSIR, its scientists and technical teams, as well as the partners involved in establishing FuturePHARMA. 

“May this facility become a platform where South African knowledge is translated into technologies, where technologies become products, and where products create lasting social, industrial and economic value – both for South Africa and for our continent,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

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