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President Ramkalawan Congratulates Seychellois Swimming Sensation Angelina Smythe

Source: APO


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The President of Seychelles, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan on Friday morning welcomed to State House Seychellois swimming sensation Ms. Angelina Smythe, following her outstanding performance during the 13th Jeux de la Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI) being held in Seychelles.

The 16-year-old Seychellois athlete delivered an exceptional performance in the pool, clinching an impressive tally of 5 Gold, 4 Silver, and 2 Bronze medals, making her the top medalist for the Seychelles’ swimming team with a total of 11 medals. 

President Ramkalawan extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Smythe, commending her dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence. “Angelina, your remarkable achievements have brought immense pride to Seychelles. You have shown that with determination and hard work, our young athletes can shine brightly on the international stage,” the President said.

The Head of State further assured Ms. Smythe of the full support and encouragement of the Government of Seychelles as she continues to represent the nation in upcoming competitions. He wished her every success in her sporting career, urging her to keep inspiring fellow Seychellois youths.

“Seychelles is proud of you, Angelina. You carry our flag high, and the entire nation stands behind you,” President Ramkalawan added.

Also present for the meeting was the Minister for Youth, Family and Sports, Mrs Marie-Celine Zialor and Mrs Annalisa Smythe, Angelina’s mother.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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DWS to keep Vaal Dam overflowing to bolster drought readiness

Source: Government of South Africa

In a strategic move to prepare for potential drought, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced it plans to keep the Vaal Dam full until the start of the summer rainy season.

This comes as the South African Weather Services (SAWS) predicts that the central parts of the country will receive normal to below-normal rainfall.  

“While above-normal rainfall is expected in the southwestern and coastal areas, DWS is ensuring that water storage remains high in key dams like the Vaal and Bloemhof to prepare for any potential water shortages,” the department said.

In its weekly assessment, the department reported a slight decline in the Vaal Dam’s water level, with the current reading shows the dam at 106.3% capacity, a minor decrease from 106.5% the previous week.

The department noted that since the resumption of normal operations, the overall storage level has been gradually decreasing due to ongoing water usage across the system and natural evaporation.  

“The Vaal Dam, a key component of the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), continues to play a vital role in ensuring reliable water supply to Gauteng and the Free State. It is presently storing approximately 2.57 billion cubic metres of water, well above its designated full supply volume, underscoring the system’s resilience and ability to meet regional demand.

“The sustained high-water levels across the Vaal Dam and other reservoirs are reflective of the above-normal rainfall earlier in the year, and additionally, the effective water resource management during this low-flow season under normal dam operations. This strategic water management framework ensures consistent storage capacity across the IVRS, reinforcing the region’s ability to meet ongoing water demands,” the department said. 
The IVRS continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining the Vaal Dam’s supply by regulating inflows and supporting optimal storage levels.

As the backbone of water security for Gauteng and surrounding provinces, the system is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of variable climate conditions and growing demand.

According to the latest data, the IVRS is operating at a healthy 101.0%, reflecting only a slight dip from the previous reading of 101.2%. This minimal change indicates continued stability and resilience in the system’s performance.

The department said the reservoirs within the IVRS remain at elevated levels, with the Grootdraai Dam’s level held steady at 99.4% for the past week, while the Sterkfontein Dam, which serves as a crucial reserve for the Vaal Dam, saw a minor decrease to 99.3%, down from 99.4% last week.  

The Bloemhof Dam has experienced a modest increase over the past week, rising from 108.8% to 109.2%, but overall, it has been reducing since May, when normal operations resumed.

“The dam will also be kept at above 100% full supply capacity and will constantly be monitored. This time last year, Bloemhof Dam was at around 91%,” the department said.

Beyond South Africa’s borders, the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a key contributor to the IVRS, has shown mixed results. The Katse Dam recorded a decline in water levels, dropping from 91.5% to 90.6%.

Conversely, the Mohale Dam experienced only a slight decrease from 102.2% to 101.2%, which signals continued stability in the cross-border water supply scheme.

The department continues to monitor dam levels closely and urged the public to continue using water responsibly, despite the current abundance.

“Efficient water use remains vital in sustaining long-term water security amid the increasing pressures of climate change and urban demand.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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‘Experienced’ Mogorosi appointed as acting HOD of Gauteng Community Safety

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 8, 2025

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has appointed Roche Mogorosi as acting Head of Department (HOD) for the provincial Community Safety Department.

Current HOD Nontsikelelo Sisulu and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mduduzi Malope were placed on immediate suspension earlier this week, following the conclusion of a forensic investigation, which uncovered alleged financial irregularities in the department.

READ | Gauteng Community Safety HOD, CFO suspended

“We are committed to restoring public trust and strengthening governance. Mogorosi has the expertise to lead the department with integrity, as we work to ensure accountability and continued service delivery to the people of Gauteng,” Lesufi said.

The Gauteng Provincial Government noted that Mogorosi brings experience to the post.

“Mogorosi brings extensive experience in public administration spanning governance, public participation, human resources, and strategic programme management. His appointment will ensure continuity of leadership and stability within the department.

“Before his appointment, Mogorosi served as Chief Director of Schools Technology Support Services at the Gauteng Department of Education.

“He holds two Master’s degrees: a Master of Management in Governance from the Wits School of Governance and a Master of Business Administration from Tshwane University of Technology,” the GPG said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Ghana: Mahama announces ‘Evening of Reflections’ for departed 8

Source: APO


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“An Evening of Reflections and Memorials for the eight persons who lost their lives in Wednesday’s helicopter crash will be held at the forecourt of the State House on Saturday, 9th August.

The 5.00 pm programme will climax the three days of national mourning.

The state funeral, an inter-denominational service, will be on Thursday, 15th August at the Black Star Square.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

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Helicopter crash: President Mahama addresses nation; memorial service on Saturday

Source: APO


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President John Dramani Mahama, on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, has expressed condolences to the families of eight cherished citizens of Ghana who died in the Air Force helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti region on Tuesday, 6th August 2025.

He announced that a Board of Inquiry has been constituted to conduct transparent investigations into the cause of the tragedy.

“I want to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.”

President Mahama, who was addressing the nation on Thursday night, added that the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about DNA tests being conducted for identification of the bodies and final interment.

He announced that an evening of Reflections and Memorial will be held at the forecourt of the State House in honour of our departed men on Saturday.

The President also disclosed that an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for all eight heroes at the Black Star Square on 15th August.

Mr Mahama called for unity at this moment of national grief and prayers for the families of the deceased.

“This is not a me for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a testament to the strength, empathy, and the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.”

He continued, “In this moment of national grief, let us remember that we are, above all, Ghanaians. Let us set aside our differences and offer our collective compassion to the bereaved families… This is not a me for division, speculation, or political point-scoring.”

Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.

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Decision to grant permission to Eskom to build new nuclear power station upheld

Source: Government of South Africa

After thorough consideration and consultation, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has upheld the 2017 decision to grant Eskom Environmental Authorisation to construct and operate a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, Western Cape.

The decision was upheld after appeals were made by various environmental organisations.

“In considering these appeals, I have carefully reviewed the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAr), as well as the independent peer review conducted in respect of the project.

“In the end, my decision was made in respect of the principles of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), and with full appreciation of the environmental, social and economic considerations involved,” the Minister said on Friday.

The original decision to grant the Environmental Authorisation was made in October 2017.

Various appellants challenged the decision, submitting appeals that ranged from comprehensive and detailed submissions to shorter, individual objections. 

This week, the Minister has decided, in terms of section 43(6) of NEMA, to dismiss the appeals, and confirm the decision to grant the Environmental Authorisation to Eskom.

The Minister’s decision to uphold the Environmental Authorisation does not automatically grant Eskom permission to begin with the construction or operation of the nuclear power station. 

The entity is still required to obtain several additional statutory authorisations before proceeding in accordance with section 24(7) of NEMA. 

The authorisations include:

  • A Nuclear Installation Licence from the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR);
  • Approval from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA);
  • Water use licences from the Department of Water and Sanitation, and
  • Any other relevant approvals, including those from the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.

“As per section 24(7) of NEMA, the granting of an Environmental Authorisation does not exempt an applicant from complying with any other applicable legal requirements or obtaining permits from other competent authorities,” George said.

The Minister has emphasised that the protection and preservation of South Africa’s environment is a non-negotiable. 

“The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment supports South Africa’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future where inclusive growth, job creation and poverty reduction are central,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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W Cape invests over R7m to strengthen local disaster response

Source: Government of South Africa

In a significant step towards enhancing disaster response and firefighting capabilities at the local level, the Western Cape Government officially handed over firefighting vehicles, essential equipment and a financial grant to the Overberg District Municipality.

Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, handed over the firefighting equipment to the Overberg District during a ceremony held this week at the Bredasdorp Fire Station.

The handover forms part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting municipalities in fulfilling their constitutional mandate of disaster risk reduction, fire prevention, and emergency response.

Delivering the keynote address, Bredell said the investment in firefighting and disaster risk management is an important part of the provincial government’s response to climate change and population growth. 

“We need to be ready to respond to more severe floods, droughts and wildfires, and we need to be able to do this for a growing population, which elevates the risk profiles of these events,” he said. 

With its headquarters in Bredasdorp, the Overberg District Municipality governs four local municipalities of Cape Agulhas, Overstrand, Swellendam and Theewaterskloof.

The equipment includes firefighting vehicles (2 water tankers and 2 bakkies), portable firefighting equipment, protective gear for fire fighting personnel, communication and operational tools, and a financial grant allocation.

This strategic intervention will significantly bolster the district’s ability to respond effectively to fires and emergencies across its jurisdiction, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Bredell also acknowledged the crucial role private landowners play in the prevention and management of wildfires in the province. 

He said the provincial department is also supporting the Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association with R400 000 to do capacity building, as they play an invaluable role in firefighting.

During the 2024/25 fire season, the province provided R3.6 million to the Overberg District for aerial support during 23 fires, where ground teams were deployed at six of these fires.

“We are also planning the establishment of a 10-person provincial ground team in Bredasdorp to strengthen their ability to combat fires and keep residents safe.” 

Bredell said the equipment, together with the various support measures, totals support of R7.7 million for the Overberg District. 

“I want to thank the strong leadership and good management in place in the Overberg District, as this makes it easy for the province to provide support and invest in established services that are well run.”

He took the time to thank the men and women who work as firefighters. 

“It takes a special kind of person who runs towards danger when the rest of society tries to run away from it. Thank you for your brave work. This investment in equipment and training is also our contribution to your safety.” – SAnews.gov.za

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FIND Congratulates Kenya for Eliminating Human African Trypanosomiasis as a Public Health Problem

Source: APO

FIND (www.FINDdx.org) congratulates Kenya’s Ministry of Health (MoH) on today’s announcement by the World Health Organization (WHO) that Kenya has successfully eliminated human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), commonly known as “sleeping sickness” as a public health problem. 

“This is an incredible achievement and and is testimony to what can be accomplished through the investment and dedication of partners striving towards a common goal,” said Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO and Chief Transformation Officer of FIND. “FIND is very proud of being an integral part of bringing diagnosis to all, a critical step in eliminating this deadly disease.” 

FIND has worked hand in hand with the MoH since 2020 to strengthen the country’s capacity for diagnosis and surveillance of HAT in the endemic regions of the country. Historically, diagnosing the disease and monitoring its spread – crucial steps for any elimination effort – have been a challenge, because many of the communities most vulnerable to HAT live in remote, rural settings. 

“Eliminating neglected tropical diseases is even more critical at this point in history, said FIND Board Chair Dr Ayoade Alakija, “as health financing in low- and middle-income countries becomes increasingly challenging and new models are being proposed. By their very definition, most diseases affecting the most vulnerable are “neglected”, thus the elimination of HAT is an important milestone and reflects what is possible when leaders in the private and public spheres deliver comprehensively on prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment.” 

Through FIND’s support, all health facilities in the HAT-endemic regions were mapped and the laboratory infrastructure was upgraded, which included the installation of appropriate diagnostic equipment in strategically located health facilities. All health workers (both clinicians and lab workers) were re-trained in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of HAT. This was supported by a campaign to raise awareness in communities, health care workers, and policymakers about HAT, its manifestation, and where to report for testing.  

Additionally, FIND strengthened the disease surveillance system and established a system for the collection and reporting of HAT surveillance data to the MoH and worked closely with the Ministry in the preparation and submission of the dossier on HAT elimination to WHO. 

Prof. Joseph Ndungu, Head of FIND’s Kenya office, said, “HAT causes tremendous suffering, typically in communities that are already vulnerable. Eliminating this deadly disease as a public health problem is an important victory, and FIND is gratified to have been able to support Kenya in their efforts through strengthening the country’s capacity and its surveillance systems.” 

HAT, also known as sleeping sickness, is a vector-borne disease caused by blood parasites (Trypanosoma brucei), transmitted to humans by bites of tsetse flies which have acquired the parasites from infected humans or animals. Rural populations which depend on agriculture, fishing, animal husbandry or hunting are the most exposed. Kenya is the 10th country to have successfully eliminated HAT as a public health problem. 

As the name indicates, HAT is transmitted only on the African continent. The disease exists in two forms, gambiense and rhodesiense. The rhodesiense form, which is found in eastern and southern Africa, including Kenya, is caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, and presents as an acute disease that develops rapidly with multi-organ invasion, including the brain. Without treatment, rhodesiense sleeping sickness is fatal within a few days or weeks. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIND.

For additional information: 
FIND’s work on neglected tropical diseases, including HAT: https://apo-opa.co/40ZcRb3
WHO fact sheet: https://apo-opa.co/45uM8od

Media files

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Merck Foundation and Nigeria First Lady meet to Build Healthcare Capacity, Support girl education and Break Infertility Stigma in Nigeria

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany underscored their commitment to build healthcare capacity, support girl education and break infertility stigma in Nigeria during their high-level meeting with H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The discussion was led by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It was a privilege to meet my dear sister H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and officially appoint her to be the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During our meeting, we discussed the beginning of our long-term partnership and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local Nigerian doctors in 42 critical and underserved specialties. We also discussed about addressing critical social and health issues in the country including breaking the infertility stigma and supporting girl education.”

“It gives me great pleasure to share that till today, 63 scholarships have been provided for doctors in Nigeria and affirm our commitment towards enhancing healthcare delivery by providing scholarships for local doctors in Nigeria.” Dr Rasha Kelej added.

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet the Chairman and CEO of Merck Foundation in our country. I am truly pleased to learn about their impactful and highly beneficial programs, particularly Educating Linda program to support girl education and scholarship program for advancing healthcare capacity. It is encouraging to know that Merck Foundation has provided 63 scholarships to our local doctors in critical medical specialties. I am fully committed to scaling up all their programs to benefit our people.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT shared, “It was a great pleasure to meet H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to reinforce our shared commitment to advancing healthcare capacity in Nigeria and across Africa.

Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program. Till today, we have provided more than 2282 scholarships for young doctors from 53 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties.”

Merck Foundation has provided 63 scholarships for Nigerian doctors, out of which 8 scholarships have been provided for Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, Biotechnology of Human Assisted Reproduction and Embryology and Women’s Health.

Moreover, 38 scholarships have been provided for Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology and Obesity & Weight Management. After completion of the course, these doctors will be able to establish diabetes or hypertension clinics in their Health Centre or Hospital with the aim to help prevent and manage the disease in their own communities.

Additionally, 17 scholarships have been provided for other critical and underserved specialties like Oncology Research, Clinical Psychiatry, Dermatology in Clinical Practice, Pain Management, Respiratory Medicine, Care of the Older Person, Critical Care, Rheumatology, and more.

Moreover, As a part of their ‘Educating Linda’ program, Merck Foundation has also sponsored the education of 20 high performing but underprivileged Nigerian schoolgirls.

Merck Foundation has also conducted three edition of Online Health Media Training for the Nigerian journalists, 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, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels; to underscore the importance of Empowering Girls and Women in Education and to understand the social and psychological impact of infertility stigma and other social issues like GBV, Child Marriage, FGM etc. over women and their families and communities.

Moreover, to raise awareness of early detection and prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria has also launched their 8 important Merck Foundation Awards for Media, Musicians & Singers, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, and students & new potential talents in these fields.

“I invite the young Nigerian talents to share their creative and inspiring work with us. We have celebrated many winners from Nigeria in the previous years and look forward to celebrating winners this year too,” concluded Senator Dr. Kelej.

Details of the Awards:

  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All 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: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All 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: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All 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: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: 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 “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: All 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 “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: All 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 “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: All 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 awards, please visit our website:
www.Merck-Foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/45uQbRD
X: https://apo-opa.co/40VvmgA
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4lfhepT
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/41rS4x0
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFrU
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFYW
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4mEQ7pn

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/45uQbRD), X (https://apo-opa.co/40VvmgA), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/41rS4x0), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4lfhepT), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFrU) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFYW).

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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Transnet, Hotazel Manganese Mines sign 10-year contract to secure transportation of manganese

Source: Government of South Africa

Transnet and Hotazel Manganese Mines (HMM), a joint venture operated by a wholly owned subsidiary of South32, have officially signed a 10-year contract to secure long-term rail and port manganese export capacity.

The contract was signed under the third phase of the Manganese Export Capacity Allocation (MECA3) framework.

The MECA3 agreement introduces a demand-led, multi-year capacity allocation model designed to enable improved planning, efficiency, and investment confidence across the manganese value chain, exporting manganese through critical channels, such as Saldahna and Ngqura to HMM’s global markets.

In a statement on Thursday, Transnet said the contract strengthens the collaborative partnership between the two organisations, and provides operational certainty for one of South Africa’s most established manganese producers.

HMM, located in the Kalahari Basin of the Northern Cape, has been a significant contributor to the global manganese supply chain for over four decades. HMM consists of two manganese mines located in the Kalahari Manganese Field in the Northern Cape province, namely Wessels and Mamatwan mines.

HMM and Transnet share a longstanding relationship stretching back to the 1970s, making rail an integral part of HMM’s logistics and export operations. Over the years, this partnership has evolved in support of growing volumes, infrastructure expansion, and South Africa’s broader export agenda.

“This agreement is a testament to the efficiency and reliability of our services. It also reflects our commitment to the mining sector, underpinned by reliable and predictable access to rail capacity for our manganese exporters.

“By securing dedicated rail and port capacity, the agreement provides HMM with the operational certainty needed to support its mining and export activities, which contribute to local jobs and the country’s economic prosperity,” Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said.

South32 HMM Vice President Operations Barry Bezuidenhout said securing long-term rail and port export capacity is vital for HMM to access international markets for its product.

“The signing of this agreement continues our position as a leading global supplier of manganese, as well as a major local employer in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

“We look forward to continuing our long standing mutually beneficial relationship with Transnet and working together to identify opportunities to grow rail logistics capacity in South Africa,” Bezuidenhout said. –SAnews.gov.za