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Nzimande sets stage for South Africa’s inaugural National Science Month

Source: Government of South Africa

Nzimande sets stage for South Africa’s inaugural National Science Month

The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Prof. Blade Nzimande, is this afternoon hosting the pre-launch of the inaugural edition of National Science Month (NSM).

Monday’s briefing at the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) offices in Pretoria comes ahead of the launch of the inaugural edition, which will be held at the Vaal University of Technology Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park in Sebokeng on Saturday, 4 July.

The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation said National Science Month is South Africa’s first month-long science engagement event of its kind and marks an important milestone in advancing public engagement with science, technology and innovation (ST&I).

“National Science Month represents a significant expansion of National Science Week, one of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation’s flagship science engagement initiatives, which has been implemented since 2000.”

Like National Science Week, National Science Month forms part of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation’s (DSTI) Science Engagement Strategy.

The strategy seeks to build a science-aware and science-literate society in which citizens can form independent opinions on ST&I issues and have confidence in science, scientists and science institutions.

In contrast to National Science Week — in which grant-funded activities were carried out by the DSTI funded organisers — National Science Month is a nationwide science observance during which all sectors of society are encouraged to use any means available to demonstrate their connection to science, technology, and innovation.

“National Science Month provides an opportunity for all sectors across society to mobilise and organise their own theme-related initiatives.

“These activities will demonstrate the value and impact of science in society while significantly scaling up the promotion of careers in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and innovation among learners and students,” said the ministry.

National Science Month is aimed at encouraging all South Africans to recognise the role of science, technology and innovation in everyday life. This includes learners, educators, students, scientists and researchers and indigenous knowledge-holders among others.

The launch programme later this week will include media engagements, an exhibition tour by dignitaries, the formal launch ceremony and a public science exhibition featuring 132 exhibition stands from 105 organisations representing universities, science councils, government institutions, the private sector, innovation organisations, science centres and civil society.

Fifteen universities, together with all DSTI entities, have confirmed their participation in the exhibition including Vaal University, the University of Johannesburg and Stellenbosch University among others. –SAnews.gov.za

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Irish and Kenyan Scientists Collaborate on Dairy Research

Source: APO


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Scientists from Kenya and Ireland have co-authored a research paper on, “Gestation length and its associations with calf birth weight, calf perinatal mortality, and dystocia in dairy cattle.” The paper was selected as Editor’s Choice in the August 2025 issue of the American Dairy Science Association’s Journal of Dairy Science.

The objective of the study was to quantify how non-genetic factors associate with gestation length; also of interest were the associations between gestation length and calving performance.

This study was led by researchers from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and Teagasc – the Agriculture and Food Development Authority in Ireland. It was supported by the Embassy of Ireland in Kenya through the Dairy Ireland Kenya Project with additional support from Science Foundation Ireland and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, of the Government of Ireland.

The paper provides valuable insights for predicting expected calving dates by considering key factors associated with gestation length; the model solutions can easily be incorporated into decision support tools that predict herd calving patterns. Knowledge of these factors can help producers optimize herd average gestation length within the context of an overall breeding strategy, avoiding the potential pitfalls of extremely short gestation and the repercussions of same.

Ireland is proud to support research that strengthens sustainable agriculture and supports smallholder livelihoods in Kenya.

Read the paper here.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of Ireland, Kenya.

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Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mozambique Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas to visit Finland

Source: APO

The topics to be discussed by Minister for Foreign Affairs Elina Valtonen and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Mozambique Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas are the bilaterial relations between Finland and Mozambique and the European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique (EUMAM Mozambique).

“Finland and Mozambique have excellent bilateral relations that date back a long time – last year we celebrated the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations, and now we are focusing on economic cooperation as well. Supporting Mozambique’s security sector is also important for Finland, and we participate in this work through the EU,” Minister for Foreign Affairs Valtonen says. Finland has participated in the EU’s training operation and, later, the EU Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique since 2021.

During the visit Minister dos Santos Lucas will also meet Johannes Koskinen, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of Parliament, and representatives of the defence administration.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland.

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Minister McKenzie pays tribute to Bafana Bafana

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister McKenzie pays tribute to Bafana Bafana

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has paid tribute to Bafana Bafana after their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, describing the team’s performance as remarkable.

Bafana Bafana’s journey came to an end on Sunday after a 1-0 defeat to tournament co-hosts Canada in a last 32 match at Los Angeles Stadium. 

The men’s team reached the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history.

“In their fourth World Cup appearance, after exits in 1998, 2002, and on home soil in 2010, these young men did what no South African team has ever done before. They made it through, and that is not a small thing. 

“That is history that can’t be erased, written in the gold and green on the world stage in front of billions of people,” McKenzie said on Monday.

McKenzie said the manner in which the team qualified made the achievement even more remarkable.

“Written off after a 2–0 defeat to Mexico in the opening match, they showed character, resilience, and tactical intelligence to draw with Czechia and, in what many will rightly describe as one of the greatest nights in our football, beat South Korea 1–0 to book their place in the Round of 32. 

“That victory, earned by Thapelo Maseko’s 63rd-minute strike, lifted South Africa from fourth to second place in the group and announced our arrival on the global knockout stage,” the Minister said.

He also paid tribute to Coach Hugo Broos for his work, belief and sacrifice in coaching the team.

“When the final whistle blew against South Korea, Broos collapsed to the turf as the bench flooded the pitch. That image captured his years of work, belief, sacrifice and love for this team and this country. 

“Coach, you have earned your place in the history of South African sport. What you have built here is something that will endure long after this tournament,” the Minister said.

The Minister extended his congratulations to Canada on a well-deserved victory, as well as to all three host nations — the United States (US), Canada and Mexico — for the outstanding manner in which they have staged this tournament.

“This has been a World Cup that has captured the imagination of the world, and the hosts deserve enormous credit for that. We have been made to feel at home in both Mexico and the US, who opened their arms to South Africa and showed us great love. We will never forget it,” he said.

McKenzie also recognised the South African Football Association for its commitment to the World Cup campaign.

“To every player in our squad: South Africa sees you and we thank you. We are proud of each of you – not just for the moments of glory, but for the moments no one saw: the early mornings, the doubts you needed to overcome and the commitment to your country.

“This is not the end but a new beginning. South Africa is a football nation. We always were, and today, the world knows it and will remember it,” the Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Protest responsibly, urges Eastern Cape government 

Source: Government of South Africa

Protest responsibly, urges Eastern Cape government 

The Eastern Cape Provincial Government on Monday urged citizens planning to participate in the 30 June protest against illegal immigration to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly responsibly, stressing that all demonstrations must remain lawful, peaceful and respectful of the rights and safety of others. 

In a statement on Monday, Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane called on  citizens to remain calm and conduct themselves in accordance with the laws of the country. 

He  also condemned all forms of intimidation, harassment, or violence directed at any individual irrespective of their nationality or immigration status.

This as multi-disciplinary teams are working around the clock to monitor the demonstrations, ensuring that they are conducted peacefully and operational plans are in place to manage any eventuality. 

“South Africa remains a constitutional democracy founded on the rule of law, human dignity, and the protection of all persons within its borders,” the provincial government said.

In addition, the Premier has has emphasised that Tuesday is a normal business day and no citizen should be obstructed from conducting their business or going to work.  

“As government, we remain open to engagement on the matters that have been raised, and we appreciate that last week’s march in the province was conducted in compliance with the law. 

“I call for the same responsible approach to tomorrow’s march, where demonstrators will exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and in accordance with the Constitution,” he said.

The provincial government added that as of June 28, approximately 700 foreign nationals, mainly Malawians have been processed by the Department of Home Affairs in Jefferys Bay and St Francis Bay.   

“The province has set up a central Provincial Processing Centre in kuGompo City as a strategic central location within the province. All logistical arrangements have been coordinated to ensure the smooth and safe escort of foreign nationals being deported or repatriated to their country of origin. 

“Furthermore, all District and Metro Municipalities in the province have identified venues to be used as Displacement Centres to house and manage the processing of migrants as and when required,” said the provincial government.

In addition, law enforcement agencies, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), are on high alert across the province to prevent any unlawful activities and ensure that public order is maintained. 

This includes the monitoring of all points of entry, as well as freight and logistics corridors.

“Individuals or groups found engaging in acts of violence, intimidation, or incitement will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.    

“The provincial government reiterates that immigration matters must be addressed through lawful and orderly processes. Communities are urged not to take the law into their own hands,” said the province.

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to exercise their constitutional right to protest peacefully and responsibly, while warning that acts of violence, intimidation and vigilantism have no place in the country’s constitutional democracy. 

READ | President calls for peaceful protest, warns against vigilantism over immigration concerns

Meanwhile, the provincial governments of Mpumalanga and the Western Cape  has also called on citizens to protest responsibly.
READ |  Mpumalanga urges protesters to maintain law and order

READ | Western Cape urges protestors to respect the rule of law

–SAnews.gov.za 
 

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Typical winter conditions expected across SA this week

Source: Government of South Africa

Typical winter conditions expected across SA this week

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has forecast that typical winter conditions will dominate this week, with rainfall and strong, damaging winds expected from Wednesday over the central and southern parts of the country.

On Monday, the forecast indicates partly cloudy and cool to warm conditions, with isolated showers and rain in the south and south-east, but scattered showers in places along the Eastern Cape coast.

The weather service has issued a warning for damaging waves along the coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

The passage of a cold front will result in strong surface winds over the north-western parts, leading to localised damage to settlements, both formal and informal, localised loss of agricultural production, disruptions to some transport routes and travel services, and falling trees.

A warning for damaging waves has also been issued for the Eastern Cape.

This is due to west-to-south-west damaging waves, with wave heights of between 4m and 5m and winds of up to 30 knots (60km/h), expected between Plettenberg Bay and Port Edward as a strong cold front passes along the Eastern Cape coast.

These waves are expected to moderate from the west by late afternoon.

The weather outlook for Tuesday and Wednesday shows partly cloudy conditions, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers over the central, western and eastern parts of the country.

Conditions will be cold to very cold over the western interior on Wednesday; otherwise, it will be fine and cool. – SAnews.gov.za

 

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Tanzania: Ambassador Chen Mingjian Meets with United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) Executive Secretary Pradeep Kurukulasuriya

Source: APO

On June 26, Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania H.E. Chen Mingjian met with United Nations Capital Development Fund Executive Secretary Mr. Pradeep Kurukulasuriya at the Embassy. They exchanged views on deepening tripartite cooperation.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the United Republic of Tanzania.

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International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Partners Launch PlayMatters 3.0 to Expand Learning through Play across East Africa

Source: APO


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The International Rescue Committee (IRC), together with consortium partners Plan International and War Child Alliance, and with support from the LEGO Foundation, is launching PlayMatters 3.0, the next phase of a flagship education initiative supporting teachers improve holistic learning and wellbeing through Learning through Play, for pre-primary and primary school children.

Since its launch, PlayMatters has worked alongside Ministries of Education, teachers, school leaders, and communities across East Africa to strengthen the quality of teaching and learning in challenging contexts. The program has reached more than 984,000 children, surpassing its initial target of 800,000, and supported implementation in over 950 schools across Uganda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia.

Learning through Play is an active teaching approach that helps teachers deliver the existing curriculum through engaging, child-centered, and participatory methods that support children’s learning, wellbeing, and active participation in the classroom. 

“PlayMatters 3.0 reflects a shift from demonstrating what works to supporting how it can be embedded and sustained at scale,’’ said Martin Omukuba, PlayMatters Project Director. “By collaborating with and strengthening national education systems, supporting teachers, and building on the evidence from the region, this next phase aims to strengthen how Learning through Play can reach more children with access to engaging learning environments.”

Rather than introducing a parallel curriculum, PlayMatters works within existing national education systems, helping teachers integrate playful and inclusive approaches into everyday classroom practice. Across countries, the program has supported co-creation of teaching and learning resources with Ministries of Education and education actors, enabling Learning through Play approaches to be adapted to local contexts and delivered using locally available materials.

New elements under PlayMatters 3.0 include strengthened teacher professional development pathways, deeper integration of Learning through Play into existing systems and structures, and the introduction of a crisis modifier to support more flexible education responses during climate shocks, conflict, and other disruptions affecting children and schools.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, develop, and thrive, even in the most challenging circumstances. Through this partnership, we are investing not only in children’s learning today, but in stronger education systems and more resilient communities for the future,’’ said Mary Winters, Senior Program Manager at the LEGO Foundation.

Emerging evidence from the program is also helping build the case for scale. In Ethiopia, findings from a Randomized Controlled Trial show PlayMatters achieved significant improvements in children’s numeracy, literacy and socio-emotional learning skills. It achieved 2X the impacts on children’s socio-emotional learning outcomes, 1.5X the impact on numeracy, and significant improvements on literacy, while showing cost-effectiveness compared to similar interventions. 

Similar findings from Uganda show Learning through Play achieving gains in teachers in classroom practice, teacher-pupil relationships, and wellbeing. These results reinforce the growing evidence that Learning through Play can improve both the quality of teaching and children’s learning experiences. 

PlayMatters has also contributed to longer-term sustainability through investments in teacher training, continuous professional development, and system integration. In Tanzania, for example, a Learning through Play module has been launched on the Tanzania Institute of Education’s e-learning platform, creating a pathway for wider access to teacher development and continued uptake beyond direct project support. This reflects a broader shift in the program from delivery alone toward strengthening the systems, institutions, and actors that can sustain Learning through Play.

PlayMatters 3.0 will build on collaboration between Ministries of Education, teachers, communities, and partners to strengthen more resilient, inclusive, and joyful learning environments for children. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Rescue Committee (IRC) .

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Sudan: An imminent Rapid Support Forces (RSF) offensive is pushing North Kordofan toward humanitarian catastrophe, warns International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Source: APO


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Escalating RSF drone strikes on El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan state, are killing civilians, cutting off access to food, water, and fuel, and paving the way for a ground offensive that would put hundreds of thousands of people at grave risk, triggering a major humanitarian emergency, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is warning today.

Drone strikes on fuel depots and water stations have left residents facing acute shortages of both fuel and water. As advances of ground troops progress, civilians risk being trapped in El Obeid if key evacuation routes towards Kosti are blocked.

The advances around El Obeid reflect patterns seen in El Fasher, where encirclement was followed by widespread attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, leaving hospitals and aid providers unable to meet acute needs. El Obeid risks facing the same trajectory without sustained international action to halt the offensive.

“What is happening in El Obeid today could become a repeat of the horrors we saw in El Fasher where civilians became targets” said Richard Data, IRC Sudan Country Director. “When water stops running and fuel runs out, people cannot survive, and when roads are intentionally blocked, people cannot escape, leaving them without any protection. 

An attack on El Obeid could trigger a large-scale movement of displaced people toward White Nile state, where numbers of internally displaced people are already increasing. Almost 2000 people have already fled to White Nile from El Obeid in recent weeks. But the conditions that typically enable people to leave, including functioning roads, fuel for transport, and physical safety are rapidly disappearing as attacks continue. Many people will be unable to move even if they want to, facing a choice between a city under siege and roads that are no longer safe to travel.

The IRC is calling on all parties to uphold their obligations to protect civilians. The RSF should heed to international calls to halt its offensive. It is vital that all those with influence and connections to the RSF use their relationships to avert a further atrocity in Sudan. Civilians who wish to, must be able to leave safely, and all parties must ensure rapid, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to maintain life saving services.

IRC is warning that without an immediate cessation of hostilities, Al Obeid risks becoming another trapped population and White Nile risks being overwhelmed by a displacement wave it is not resourced to absorb.

When the conflict began in 2023, the IRC adapted its programs and scaled up our response to address increased humanitarian needs. Despite operational challenges, the IRC continues to provide support in Blue Nile, Gedaref, Khartoum, River Nile, South Kordofan and White Nile states and is working on re-establishing its presence in Jazera state. We have an office in Port Sudan and are expanding our presence into other states, including Darfur.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Rescue Committee (IRC) .

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Seychelles: President Herminie Receives Chinese Minister for Transport During Courtesy Call

Source: APO


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The future direction of Seychelles China relations, including expanded cooperation in trade, connectivity, defence and sustainable development, featured prominently during a courtesy call between President of the Republic Dr Patrick Herminie and the Minister for Transport of the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency Liu Wei, at State House today.

Also present were the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora, Mr Barry Faure, and the Minister for Transport, Mrs Veronique Laporte.

President Herminie welcomed Minister Liu and expressed his appreciation for China’s immense contribution to Seychelles’ national development over the past five decades. He acknowledged China’s support across a wide range of sectors, including housing, the construction of the National Assembly and the Supreme Court buildings, healthcare, education, infrastructure and capacity building, describing China as a significant partner in the country’s nation building efforts.

The President highlighted the importance of further expanding cooperation in tourism, trade and transport connectivity in a sustainable manner. He also welcomed continued collaboration in defence through training programmes and exchanges of expertise, while expressing appreciation for the scholarships and technical and vocational education and training opportunities provided by China.

Recognising China’s longstanding support to Seychelles’ healthcare sector, President Herminie thanked the Chinese Government for its medical assistance, including the continued presence of Chinese medical teams and the provision of medical equipment to the country.

The President reaffirmed Seychelles’ firm and unwavering commitment to the One China Policy and commended China for its role as a leading voice of the Global South and an important partner in advancing peace, multilateralism and international cooperation. He also expressed concern over the situation in the Middle East and encouraged continued efforts towards restoring peace and stability in the region.

Looking ahead, President Herminie said he looked forward to undertaking a State Visit to China during the first quarter of 2027, noting that the visit would help shape the next 50 years of cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Liu conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of President Xi Jinping and thanked President Herminie for the invitation to participate in Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee Independence celebrations. He noted that diplomatic relations between Seychelles and China were established the day after Seychelles attained independence in 1976, and said the two countries have since developed a relationship founded on equality, mutual respect and enduring friendship.

He reaffirmed China’s commitment to further elevating bilateral cooperation and welcomed President Herminie’s planned visit to China, assuring him that every effort would be made to facilitate the visit.

Minister Liu also highlighted China’s support for climate action, reform of the global financial system and inclusive global development, while commending President Herminie’s contribution during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week.

On economic cooperation, Minister Liu welcomed Seychelles’ access to China’s zero tariff treatment for African countries and encouraged greater exports, particularly in the fisheries sector. He also noted opportunities to strengthen agricultural cooperation, including fertiliser production with Chinese partners, and expressed optimism that direct air connectivity between the two countries could be realised in the future following ongoing assessments of the aviation sector.

The Chinese Minister further thanked the Government and people of Seychelles for the successful organisation of the nation’s 50th Independence celebrations, noting the participation of the Chinese military contingent and cultural performers in the National Day Parade as a reflection of the strong and enduring friendship between the two countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.