NSFAS reaffirms commitment to transforming higher education under new leadership

Source: Government of South Africa

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Board has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Ministry of Higher Education and Training and the broader government vision of transforming the higher education sector through innovative funding models and inclusive policies.

The recommitment comes after the recent appointment of new Higher Education and Training Minister, Buti Manamela and Deputy Minister Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube.

The NSFAS Board extended its congratulations to both appointees and expressed confidence in their leadership.

“The board is confident that Minister Manamela’s leadership will inspire ongoing progress and innovation within the sector, thereby promoting greater access and success for South Africa’s students. We look forward to collaborating closely with the Minister to advance accessible, high-quality higher education for all South Africans,” NSFAS said in a statement.

The board also welcomed Dube-Ncube to her new role, commending her extensive experience in public service.

“Her unwavering dedication will undoubtedly enhance the ministry’s efforts to support learners and institutions nationwide,” NSFAS said.

The appointments were announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa last week, following the removal of Dr Nobuhle Nkabane as Minister of Higher Education and Training.

Manamela previously served as Deputy Minister in the same department, a role he held from the 6th administration. 

President Ramaphosa appointed Dube-Ncube in terms of Section 93(b) of the Constitution.

Dube-Ncube brings a wealth of experience, having served as the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal and as MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, among other senior roles.

NSFAS reiterated its role as a key partner in the national effort to improve access and quality in higher education.

“NSFAS remains dedicated to supporting the ministry’s vision and government’s vision of transforming higher education through innovative funding solutions and inclusive policies. The board looks forward to collaborating with both the Minister and the Deputy Minister to further these important goals,” NSFAS said.

Both Manamela and Dube-Ncube were sworn in as Minister and Deputy Minister during a ceremony, held at Tuynhuys in the presence of President Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile. – SAnews.gov.za

Africa’s Lithium Market Expansion Ahead of African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO


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Africa’s lithium industry is gaining strong momentum in 2025, marked by new project launches, significant discoveries, increased capital inflows and progress in local value addition. In a major milestone for downstream development, Zimbabwe’s Verify Engineering announced in July the successful production of the country’s first locally manufactured lithium-ion battery. The development aligns with Zimbabwe’s national strategy to ban unprocessed lithium exports by 2027 – a move aimed at driving beneficiation, enhancing domestic industrial capacity and positioning the country as a competitive player in the global battery value chain.

These advancements lay the foundation for the upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) 2025 – Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders – which will spotlight emerging opportunities across the continent’s lithium value chain.

AMW 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.

New Discoveries

As the official platform for advancing Africa’s mining prospects, AMW 2025 will provide global stakeholders with key updates on the continent’s latest lithium discoveries and project developments. Among these, UK-based Aterian and global major Rio Tinto announced Rwanda’s first lithium find at the HCK Lithium Project in July 2025 – marking a pivotal milestone in the country’s mining sector. Meanwhile, in Ivory Coast, Atlantic Lithium reported the discovery of spodumene-bearing pegmatites at its Agboville and Rubino licenses in March 2025. The find comes as the company progresses its flagship Ewoyaa Lithium Project in Ghana, set to become the country’s first industrial-scale lithium operation.

First Production Milestones

AMW 2025 will also spotlight Africa’s growing lithium production capacity and its rising contribution to the global battery mineral supply chain, as several first-production milestones are achieved across the continent. In July, Premier African Minerals commenced operations at its Zulu Lithium Plant in Zimbabwe, reinforcing the country’s role as a leading global lithium producer. Earlier in February, UK-based Kodal Minerals began spodumene concentrate production at its Boungouni Project in Mali, targeting a steady monthly output of 10,000 tons, primarily destined for export to China. Meanwhile, Mali’s Goulamina Project – operated by China’s Ganfeng Lithium – achieved first production in January, with Phase 1 capacity reaching 506,000 tons, positioning the site among the largest lithium operations worldwide.

New Financing Unlocking Africa’s Potential

AMW will also showcase financing deals and innovative mechanisms accelerating the growth of the lithium sector. In July, Canada’s Lithium Africa raised over C$3.4 million through a private placement to fund exploration and development projects across Morocco, the Ivory Coast, Guinea, Mali and Zimbabwe. That same month, Nigeria’s Continental Lithium expanded its working capital through a strategic merger with Chariot Corporation to support its hard rock lithium assets in Oyo and Kwara states. Meanwhile, in May, U.S. startup KoBold Metals pledged $1 billion to develop the Manono Lithium Project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following its acquisition of project operator AVZ Minerals.

As Africa rapidly positions itself as a major hub for lithium production, AMW serves as the focal point for industry dialogue. The event will spotlight investment-ready opportunities and facilitate deal-making between African stakeholders and global financiers, advancing the continent’s ambitions in the lithium space.

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

Southern Africa Leaders Unite to Advance Bold Health Agenda for Resilience and Equity

Source: APO


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Ministers of Health and senior representatives from ten African Union (AU) Member States in Southern Africa issued a renewed call for collective action on health financing, climate resilience, and outbreak preparedness as they gathered in Lilongwe from 24–25 July 2025 for the 4th Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee (ReSCO) Meeting.

The Government of Malawi hosted the meeting, which was officially opened by Hon. Khumbize Chiponda, Malawi’s Minister of Health, representing the Right Honourable Vice President, Dr. Michael Biswick Usi. The meeting was convened under the theme “One Region, One Health, One Future,” reaffirming the region’s collective commitment to protecting the health of its people.

ReSCO has become a vital platform for countries to align regional priorities and advance the continental health agenda, at a time when Southern Africa faces rising climate-related health threats, persistent disease outbreaks, and growing demands on frontline health systems.

In his keynote address, Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), called for transformative investments to secure Africa’s health future.

“Africa’s health future must be shaped by African leaders, for African people,” said Dr Kaseya. “To get there, we must ignite a revolution in health financing, one that invests in regional institutions, accelerates local manufacturing, and ensures sustainable systems that serve our communities.”

Over the course of the two-day deliberations, ministers resoundingly affirmed the urgency of collective leadership and regional unity in advancing health security. Opening the meeting, Hon. Dr Esperance Luvindao, Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia, issued a powerful call for solidarity, urging Member States to act with resolve in confronting shared public health challenges. Reinforcing this message, Hon. Dr Elijah Muchima, Minister of Health of Zambia and Chair of the Africa CDC Governing Board, reminded delegates that “One Region, One Health, One Future” is not merely a thematic expression, it is a strategic imperative that must drive coordinated action across the continent.

The Committee adopted several major outcomes that will shape the region’s health trajectory. These included the appointment of Hon. Dr Douglas T. Mombeshora as Regional Champion for Climate and Health, acknowledging the urgent link between environmental factors and public health threats. Hon. Dr Luvindao was also named Regional Champion for the Lusaka Agenda on Health Financing, reinforcing the region’s drive to increase domestic investment in health.

Member States also approved the Southern Africa Region Annual Report and endorsed major recommendations from the 8th Ordinary and 9th Extraordinary Regional Technical Advisory Committee (ReTAC) meetings. These included practical guidance on the implementation of the Continental Immunisation Strategy (CIS) and improved community-based outbreak surveillance. The Committee further adopted Africa CDC’s “Green Book” vision, a continent-wide pact aimed at rethinking health financing, governance, and service delivery.

A key highlight of the meeting was the Southern Africa ReSCO Award Ceremony, which honoured visionary leaders for their outstanding contributions to strengthening public health across the region. Dr Kaseya was recognised for his exceptional leadership at the continental level. Dr Kalumbi Shangula, former Minister of Health and Social Services of Namibia, and Hon. Sylvia T. Masebo, former Minister of Health of Zambia, were celebrated for their enduring public service and unwavering commitment to regional collaboration. Dr Lul P. Riek, Regional Director of the Southern Africa RCC, received special commendation for his instrumental role in operationalising the Southern Africa Regional Coordinating Centre and advancing regional public health coordination.

These recognitions highlighted a central theme of the meeting: that real progress depends not just on frameworks and funding, but on the commitment, leadership, and unity of those entrusted with protecting the health of communities.

As the meeting concluded, Member States reaffirmed their resolve to scale up implementation of the African Union’s 2 Million Community Health Workers Initiative, advance the Lusaka Agenda on Health Financing, and strengthen regional public health systems.

With renewed solidarity and political will, Southern African countries are poised to turn commitments into action. The outcomes of the 4th Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee Meeting mark a decisive shift, from dialogue to delivery. Africa CDC calls on all stakeholders, governments, and partners to act with urgency: invest in frontline capacity, empower health workers, and build resilient systems that leave no community behind.

Namibia was selected as the host of the 5th Southern Africa Regional Ministerial Steering Committee Meeting in 2026.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) condemns abduction of Health Ministry staff in Morobo County, and urges for immediate protection of healthcare workers

Source: APO


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Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) strongly condemns the abduction of a Ministry of Health (MoH) staff member from an MSF ambulance in South Sudan’s Morobo County, Central Equatoria State, at around 10:00 am on 25 July 2025. Although the staff member was released unharmed on 26 July, this incident further highlights the growing violence against healthcare workers in South Sudan.

The staff member was accompanying patients who had been referred for advanced medical care in Yei and were returning to Morobo after their discharge. During the journey, armed individuals intercepted the ambulance, forced the MoH staff member to leave the vehicle, and abducted her. The MSF driver, other staff, and patients were allowed to continue.

“What we are witnessing is a disturbing and unacceptable trend, where the impartial provision of healthcare services faces indiscriminate attacks,” says Dr. Ferdinand Atte, MSF’s head of mission in South Sudan. “This incident is not just an attack on one individual; it is a direct assault on the healthcare system meant to serve the most vulnerable in our communities.”

Over the past few months, there has been a deeply concerning rise in attacks on healthcare in South Sudan. MSF has been forced to close two hospitals in South Sudan due to these attacks. In Yei and Morobo counties, the volatile security situation continues to present ongoing challenges for the delivery of medical and humanitarian services. In May, MSF made the difficult decision to reduce its outreach services in these counties due to increased insecurity. As a result, MSF provided only 3,427 consultations in May and June 2025—half the number recorded during the same period in 2024. This sharp decline leaves already isolated communities, who live far from health facilities, with even fewer life-saving medical services.

Attacks on healthcare workers and facilities not only endanger the safety of health workers but also disrupt critical access to medical care for vulnerable communities that depend on these services.

MSF has been working in South Sudan for over 40 years, responding to major crises including conflicts, floods, and disease outbreaks, and continues to deliver lifesaving care despite ongoing violence. But no medical worker should have to risk their lives to save others. This is already the fourth serious security incident affecting MSF in just seven months, putting both our staff and the patients who rely on us at risk.

“MSF continues to call on all parties involved in the ongoing conflict in South Sudan to fulfil their obligations to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including healthcare workers, patients, and medical facilities and guarantee safe access to populations in need. Healthcare workers must never be targeted,” Dr Ferdinand adds. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Médecins sans frontières (MSF).

49 Qatari Aid Trucks Arrive in Egypt, Jordan on Way to Gaza Strip

Source: APO


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As part of the State of Qatar’s ongoing humanitarian support for the brotherly Palestinian people, 49 trucks loaded with humanitarian aid arrived in the Arab Republic of Egypt and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The aid was provided by the State of Qatar through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), in cooperation with Qatar Charity and the Qatar Red Crescent Society. It will be delivered to the World Food Programme (WFP) for distribution to those in need in the Gaza Strip via the Rafah and Zikim crossings.

The aid included 4,704 food parcels for 4,704 families for more than 28,224 beneficiaries, 200 tons of food baskets targeting approximately 50,000 beneficiaries, 174 tons of flour for 43,000 beneficiaries, and 5,000 units of baby formula for the most vulnerable children.

This aid comes amid the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip resulting from the ongoing blockade. It embodies Qatar’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and its commitment to alleviating their deepening suffering and providing urgent relief to the most affected groups.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.

Canon to celebrate the very best in photojournalism at Visa pour l’Image

Source: APO

This September, Canon (www.Canon-CNA.com) will be championing the work of photojournalists for the 36th consecutive year, as part of its decades-long partnership with Visa pour l’Image. During the festival’s Pro Week (September 1-6), held in Perpignan in the south of France, Canon will honour the craft of documentary storytelling, awarding two independent project grants, bringing together industry experts to foster meaningful exchange and providing resources for the professional community at the Canon space. As a special highlight this year, Canon has also invited Reuters to showcase a selection of images from the upcoming book ‘In the Moment’, celebrating 40 years of Reuters photojournalism.

Canon to recognise outstanding contributions to photojournalism with two grants

For a quarter of a century now, Canon and Visa pour l’Image have awarded at times career-defining project grants to female photojournalists pursuing a long-term documentary project, alongside the opportunity to showcase their work on the acclaimed Visa pour l’Image stage. This year, the international jury, consisting of leading industry professionals, has chosen to award French photojournalist Marion Péhée for her ongoing photographic investigation of young adults in Ukraine with the Canon Female Photojournalist Grant. With the grant money of €8,000, she hopes to reconnect with young Ukrainian teenagers who she met 10 years ago and to continue exploring the complexities of growing into adulthood in a frontline region.

Alongside this, Canon together with Visa pour l’Image are pleased to be presenting photojournalist, documentary DP and filmmaker Shiho Fukada with the sixth Canon Video Grant for her short-film documentary project ‘Echoes of Little Tokyo’, an intimate reflection centred on Fukui Mortuary, a fifth-generation Japanese American family-run funeral home, serving the Little Tokyo community in Los Angeles since 1918. Set in one of America’s most endangered historic neighbourhoods, the film reflects on what it means to carry a family tradition forward in a world of ongoing displacement and change.

“Canon has long championed photojournalism, and our partnership with Visa pour l’Image reflects our shared commitment to empowering independent voices and bold storytelling. The chosen projects are each a reflection on community perseverance, shaped either by war, discrimination or gentrification. What stood out to us this year across both projects is the unabated dedication to the subject, the emotional depth captured in the work, and the portrayal of wider generational implications”, says Ingrid Masachs, EMEA Marketing Director at Canon.

Preserving the key events that shape our world

This year, Canon has also invited Reuters to showcase a selection of images from the upcoming book ‘In the Moment’. From quiet moments of resilience to defining points in history, this timely publication captures four decades of Reuters news photography and will be released in early October 2025.

Printed by Canon and exhibited in the Canon festival space at the Palais des Congrès, this powerful collection highlights some of the most iconic, moving, and historic moments captured by Reuters photographers over the past four decades and offers an unrivaled insight into the workings of an agency that has long been at the centre of global events.

Canon support at Visa pour l’Image

During the festival in Perpignan, expert technicians from Canon Professional Services (CPS) will be available for accredited photographers, providing a free check-and-clean service of their equipment at the Canon space on the ground floor of the Palais des Congrès. Professional photographers will also have an opportunity to speak to Canon product experts, take out the latest cameras on loan and have an image from their portfolio printed on Canon’s fine art printers.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/457ci0e) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: (www.Canon-CNA.com)

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Sign, Graphics, and Imaging (SGI) Dubai 2025 drives new horizons for Africa’s print and signage investors

Source: APO

SGI Dubai 2025 returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from September 22–24, inviting African investors and trade visitors to witness the latest breakthroughs in printing, labelling and digital signage. As the preeminent B2B showcase for the Middle East and Africa, this year’s 28th edition is calibrated to fast‑track market leadership and deliver measurable returns on investment. African visitors can register by clicking on this link – https://apo-opa.co/3Ul9uYt.

Africa’s printing market is surging, with a regional valuation of approximately USD 2 billion in 2023 and a projected compound annual growth rate of 5.5 percent through 2030 according to 6Wresearch (http://apo-opa.co/4fkvOuL). Simultaneously, the Middle East and Africa digital signage solution market was valued at USD 2.1 billion in 2024 and is forecast to reach USD 2.3 billion in 2025 at an 11.1 percent CAGR as per Straits Research (http://apo-opa.co/41gz8Bc). These dynamics reflect an accelerating shift toward digital, colour and smart‑labelling solutions—an imperative for African businesses seeking differentiation and efficiency.

“Africa’s print and signage sector stands at the threshold of a new era,” said Abdulrahman Falaknaz, President of International Expo Consults. “SGI Dubai 2025 is designed to accelerate innovation adoption and catalyse partnerships. Investors and buyers from Nairobi to Lagos and Cairo to Cape Town will discover the technologies and service models that will redefine productivity, sustainability, and profitability across their markets.”

Last year, SGI Dubai welcomed over 200 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and tens of thousands of trade visitors representing every major growth market. SGI Dubai 2025 will elevate that experience with purpose‑built zones spanning large‑format and 3D printing, precision cutting and engraving, end‑to‑end labelling systems, advanced software platforms, sustainable substrates, and consumables. Live demonstrations, exclusive product launches and hands‑on workshops will enable African decision‑makers to assess equipment performance, negotiate bespoke financing and forge strategic alliances under one roof.

Registrants gain complimentary entry, access to curated networking lounges, business matchmaking and insights‑driven panel sessions led by industry veterans.

SGI Dubai 2025’s show profiles encompass the full spectrum of print and signage technology: large‑format and wide‑format printers, industrial 3D printers, digital display and LED signage, precision laser cutting and engraving, automated finishing systems, end‑to‑end labelling and barcoding, workflow software and colour management solutions, sustainable inks and substrates, and specialised materials for automotive wraps, textile printing and retail point‑of‑sale graphics.

Leading global technology providers will be on the show floor as they will showcase live demos of their latest hardware, consumables and software integrations—offering African buyers unprecedented access to innovations that drive faster turnaround, higher quality and lower total cost of ownership www.SignMiddleEast.com.

“I extend a personal invitation to every African print and signage professional to join us at SGI Dubai 2025,” added Falaknaz. “This is where you will discover the innovations that will revolutionize your operations, secure partnerships to scale your business across the continent and gain the competitive advantage you need in today’s fast‑moving markets. Come to Dubai this September and let SGI Dubai 2025 be the launchpad for your next chapter of growth and success.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Expo-Consults (IEC).

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African Union Appoints Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie as the New Deputy Head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM)

Source: APO


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Ambassador Mouktar Osman Karie has assumed duty as the newly appointed Deputy Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commisson (DSRCC) for Somalia and Deputy Head of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), reinforcing the AU’s leadership presence in Somalia.

On arrival in Mogadishu, Ambassador Karie was received at the Aden Abdulle International Airport by senior Federal Government of Somalia officials including the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ishaq Mahmoud Mursal, State Minister for Defence, Omar Ali Abdi and the State Minister for Internal Security, Mohamed Ali Hagaa as well as senior AUSSOM officials.

Ambassador Karie brings extensive diplomatic and political experience in peace and security across Africa. He most recently served as Regional Desk Coordinator for West Africa at the African Union Commission, where he provided high-level strategic engagement with member states and regional organizations, and contributed to the AU’s response to political transitions and governance challenges in the region.

Previously, he held senior roles within the AU’s Peace and Security Department, where he contributed to the design and coordination of the African Union’s regional security cooperation frameworks in the Sahel and Horn of Africa. His efforts included supporting the establishment of the Djibouti and Nouakchott Processes and the operationalization of the East Africa Fusion and Liaison Unit (EAFLU), mechanisms that foster regional collaboration among national security institutions.

Ambassador Karie also supported AU diplomatic engagements in Libya and the Sahel, contributed to the Union’s early warning and preventive diplomacy architecture, and represented AU leadership in several high-level international forums.

He is fluent in French, Arabic, and English, and brings with him a wealth of experience that strengthens the African Union’s commitment to advancing peace, stability, and state-building efforts in Somalia.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrates media excellence in Banjul: twelve journalists honoured at the 2025 award of excellence across West Africa

Source: APO


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In a landmark tribute to journalistic excellence, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) hosted the inaugural edition of the ECOWAS Award of Excellence for Journalists on 25 July 2025 in Banjul, The Gambia. The prestigious ceremony brought together leading media professionals, government officials, and regional stakeholders to honour twelve exceptional journalists whose work advances peace, democracy, and regional integration, in alignment with ECOWAS Vision 2050.

The award ceremony was held as part of ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary and forms a core element of its commitment to strengthening governance, accountability, and citizen engagement through a vibrant and ethical media landscape. From investigative reporting to digital storytelling, the awardees were recognised for their outstanding contributions to building public trust and amplifying community voices across West Africa.

In her welcome remarks, H.E. Miatta Lily French, ECOWAS Resident Representative in The Gambia, praised the laureates for their originality, courage, and determination:

“As we celebrate 50 years of ECOWAS, we honour the journalists who are narrating our transformation—your words carry the voice of our people and the vision of our future.”

Delivering a special message on behalf of H.E. Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Hon. Abdoul Kolley, Director of Cabinet, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to media as a pillar of democratic resilience and participatory development:

“In the framework of Vision 2050 and the 4×4 Strategic Objectives, ECOWAS continues to count on media professionals as indispensable partners in promoting inclusive, informed, and peaceful societies.”

Speaking on behalf of the Government of The Gambia, Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting, commended the regional effort and emphasized the importance of collaboration between national and regional institutions:

“This award is more than a recognition—it is a collective declaration of our belief in ethical journalism as a force for good and an engine of integration.”

The awards ceremony featured vibrant performances by the Gambia Art Troupe and the official announcement of laureates in four categories: Broadcast Television, Broadcast Radio, Print Media, and Online Media. Each category honoured a Winner, a First Runner-Up, and a Second Runner-Up.

The selection process, led by a seven-member independent jury chaired by Mr. Abdoulie Gassama, underscored transparency and merit-based recognition. The emotional testimonies of the awardees highlighted the challenges and triumphs of journalism in the region.

Twelve journalists from across West Africa were honoured in four competitive categories — Television, Radio, Print, and Online. In the Television category, Benin’s Yewoueda Djotan took home the top prize, followed by Nigeria’s Marcelina Ozekhore. For Radio, the award went to The Gambia’s Sankuleh Janko, with Ernest Agbotan and Serge Fanou from Benin, and Tiago Seide from Guinea-Bissau, all recognised in the third position.

In the Print category, Nigeria’s Paul Egime emerged as the winner, followed by compatriot Solomon Odeniyi and Senegal’s Oumar Ndiaye. Finally, the Online category celebrated Nigeria’s Emmanuel Onwuka Ukpo as winner, with Kodjo Simon Akpagana of Togo and Nigeria’s Enoch Nyayiti Raymond taking second and third place respectively. With five of the twelve awards, Nigeria stood out as the most represented country among this year’s laureates.

A symbolic Signature Wall Ceremony concluded the evening, where dignitaries and media representatives pledged to uphold media ethics and information integrity across the ECOWAS region. Development partners, particularly from Germany, expressed strong support for this new initiative as part of broader efforts to promote regional stability and democratic culture.

The ECOWAS Excellence Awards for Journalists were established to celebrate media professionals whose work fosters informed citizenship, strengthens accountability, and reflects the shared aspirations of the region. This initiative reinforces the ECOWAS Vision 2050 objective of building “an ECOWAS of the People,” where peace, integration, and prosperity are communicated with integrity, courage, and truth.

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

Liquid Intelligent Technologies South Africa honours top achievers in its 2024 Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Digital Literacy Programme

Source: APO

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (Liquid) (www.Liquid.Tech), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, proudly celebrates the remarkable successes achieved by 101 Grade 12 learners from four high schools in the Mathibestad region of the Northwest Province through Liquid’s 2024 STEM and Digital Literacy Programme.

As part of Liquid’s broader commitment to digital inclusion, skills development, and empowering communities and individuals, the initiative aims to strengthen foundational knowledge and enhance competency in the hugely sought-after areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

“We are immensely proud of the resilience and performance of this year’s learners. Through this programme, we are investing in more than just academic success. We are investing in the future engineers, scientists, and innovators of South Africa. Empowering learners with both STEM and digital literacy skills ensures they have the tools they need to unlock their full potential and make meaningful contributions to our digital future. Congratulations to the class of 2024, and we look forward to seeing what comes next,” said Ziaad Suleman, CEO of Cassava Technologies in South Africa and Botswana.

Hosted at Sempapa Secondary School, the programme caters for learners from several neighbouring schools in the local community, including Kgaphamadi Secondary, Matlaisane High and Sekitla Secondary School. Fully funded by Liquid, the programme is accessible to all learners and offers supplementary lessons in mathematics, physical sciences, and digital literacy, equipping them with the essential skills necessary for success in a digital economy. The school also hosts a fully equipped Digital Literacy Lab, offering access to Microsoft digital literacy training and STEM resources.

The top-performing learners from the 2024 cohort will be recognised at an academic awards celebration and career expo at the Liquid South Africa office in Johannesburg on 25 July. Awards include Excellence and Achievement in Mathematics and Physical Sciences, Most Improved Learner, STEM Engagement, and Digital Literacy Top Achievers. Three university bursaries will also be awarded to qualifying students who intend to study towards a STEM degree in 2026.

Initiatives such as the STEM and Digital Literacy Programme underscore Liquid’s commitment to developing South Africa’s digital skills pipeline, equipping young people to pursue tertiary studies or entrepreneurial opportunities, and fostering inclusive economic growth through education and technology.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

Liquid Intelligent Technologies:
Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a business of Cassava Technologies (Cassava), a technology company of African heritage with operations in 40-plus markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava group companies operate. Liquid has firmly established itself as the leading provider of pan-African digital infrastructure with a 110,000 km-long fibre broadband network and satellite connectivity that provides high-speed access to the Internet anywhere in Africa. Liquid is also leveraging its digital network to provide Cloud and Cyber Security solutions through strategic partnerships with leading global players. Liquid is a comprehensive technology solutions group that provides customised digital solutions to public and private sector enterprises and SMEs across the continent. For more information, visit https://www.Liquid.Tech/.

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