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President Museveni Meets Egyptian Foreign Minister

Source: APO


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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni yesterday met and held talks with the Egyptian delegation led by the Foreign Minister, Dr. Badr Abdelatty. During the meeting that took place at State House Entebbe, the Foreign Minister conveyed greetings from Egyptian President H.E Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. He also called for the formation of a joint Egyptian-Ugandan business council to boost investment in sectors like construction, energy, and pharmaceuticals.

Dr. Badr pointed out the potential for joint projects through a financing mechanism recently established by Egypt to support development in southern Nile Basin countries. “It’s a great honor and pleasure to be here to convey the best wishes from your brother President Abdel Fattah who is looking forward to discussing with you and hopefully have a business forum where the business community can explore the existing opportunities for investment and mutual benefits,” he said.

He added that his government values President Museveni’s wise leadership as well as his vision for Africa especially on Pan-Africanism and South-South cooperation. The meeting also reflected on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries by encouraging more investments in different sectors including energy, security as well as digitalization.

Dr. Badr also saluted President Museveni and Uganda in general for its role in peace keeping missions in Somalia and other countries in Africa. President Museveni and the Egyptian delegation also discussed Egypt’s existential concerns over its water security and ways to boost bilateral ties, among other things. In this regard, President Museveni emphasized the importance of preserving the African waters.

The meeting was also attended by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Okello Oryem, Minister of State for Environment, Hon. Beatrice Anywar, among others.

File Attachment

PPU – PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MEETS EGYPTIAN FOREIGN MINISTER.pdf (180.81 KB)

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Uganda and Egypt to Boost Cooperation in Investment, Capacity Building and Water Resources Development

Source: APO


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Uganda and Egypt have concluded the Second Round of Bilateral Consultations at Serena Hotel, Kampala, during which the two countries have agreed on a new cooperation framework to boost investment, capacity building and development of water resources.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Henry Okello Oryem, commended the Egyptian government for excellent relations rooted in common history and shared values. He noted that over the past years, Uganda and Egypt have implemented a number of joint projects under the existing cooperation framework, and now the two countries will leverage this relationship to implement more projects of interest.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt, H.E Badr Abdelatty, commended the government of Uganda for taking leadership on many fronts including promotion of regional peace and security. He said Egypt was ready to step up her cooperation with Uganda in a number of fields including protection and promotion of mutual investment, immigration, technical cooperation, capacity building, energy and agriculture.

Under the new cooperation framework, Uganda and Egypt will work together to promote localization of some Egyptian industries in Uganda, especially those involved in the development of vaccines and other pharmaceutical products. Both countries will also implement a number of projects along the Nile basin. These include dam construction, ground water harvesting, mechanized irrigation and solar energy generation.

The bilateral consultation meeting was also attended by Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation, Prof. Hani Sewilam, and other senior officials from the Egyptian Government.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Republic of Uganda – Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Progress made in improving operations at Port of Durban [feature]

Source: Government of South Africa

Progress made in improving operations at Port of Durban [feature] 

By Nosihle Shelembe 

Significant progress has been made in improving operational and capacity-related challenges that have plagued the Port of Durban in recent years.

As a facilitator in trade and contributor to the economy, the Port of Durban was grappling with backlogs, equipment shortages, and ageing infrastructure. 

To minimise the impact on the South African economy, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) implemented a number of urgent interventions to ensure the port and cargo handling services to businesses in South Africa and beyond were efficient.

Handling approximately 60% of South Africa’s container traffic, the Port of Durban located in KwaZulu-Natal, is the largest and busiest container terminal in Africa. 

It plays a critical role in the national economy by facilitating trade and managing large volumes of cargo — including containers, vehicles, dry bulk, break bulk, and liquid bulk.

This activity supports business operations, job creation, factory productivity, tourism, and ultimately helps bring revenue into the country.

In addition to its cargo operations, the port also offers a range of marine services such as dredging, navigational aids, ship repairs, marine operations, and pilotage.

“As Transnet, we have been implementing our recovery plan, which is aimed at improving operational efficiency. The initiative started at the height of the congestion that took place in November 2023 through January 2024. 

“From a TNPA point of view, particularly at the Port of Durban, we started daily operational meetings with all our stakeholders to make sure that we deal with the issue. 

“It also became necessary to use our capital expenditure to acquire new cargo handling equipment, expand the tug jetty and upgrade the road infrastructure at the port,” TNPA Acting Port Manager, Nkumbuzi Ben-Mazwi, said during a media tour at the port.

TNPA has been rolling out several initiatives aimed at improving both operational efficiency and financial performance. 

These efforts focus on improving the availability and reliability of rolling stock, strengthening the rail network, ensuring access to critical spare parts, and enhancing maintenance of both rail and port infrastructure. 

Investment

As part of its Recovery Plan, Transnet invested R3.4 billion this year to strengthen its equipment fleet, with the Durban Container Terminal (DCT) receiving the bulk of this investment.

The new equipment for DCT includes four ship-to-shore cranes for the South Quay, 40 haulers and 67 trailers, which are scheduled to arrive between April and December 2025.

This equipment will replace ageing machinery at the Durban Container Terminals Pier 1 and Pier 2, improving cargo handling capacity and speed.

In 2023, TNPA also acquired seven new tugboats at a cost of R1 billion, five of which were assigned to the Port of Durban, with two sent to the Port of East London.

“We invested in some equipment such as tugs. Tugs assist from a marine services point of view, as they are designed to manoeuvre other vessels by pulling or pushing them. We are making sure that we have the right equipment to ensure the improvements of the ship turnaround time,” Ben-Mazwi said.

A tugboat is a small vessel designed to guide and tow larger ships within confined harbours and narrow canals. They facilitate the safe passage of large ships through narrow channels, busy stretches, and shallow water.

“This acquisition forms part of TNPA’s Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, which is an important element of Transnet’s efforts to revitalise South Africa’s ports and support economic growth.

“As the busiest port in sub-Saharan Africa, the additional fleet will enable the Port of Durban’s readiness to respond with [an] on-demand craft in the safe navigation of vessels within the port,” the Acting Port Manager said.

As part of ongoing efforts to modernise the port, TNPA completed the Tug Jetty Expansion Project in 2023. This involved the construction of a new jetty adjacent to the existing one, providing improved berthing for tugboats and enhancing their operational readiness.

Road rehabilitation

Due to the increased number of trucks entering the port, which has led to the deterioration of road conditions, TNPA invested R233 million to rehabilitate roads in key precincts such as container terminals Maydon Wharf and Island View (liquid bulk).

“Most of the container volumes handled are moved through the Southern Road Network of the port and over the years, the influx of trucks entering the port has substantially increased. The intensified surge has led to the deterioration of the overall road infrastructure.

“The road rehabilitation project will ensure that TNPA delivers on its mandate of providing port infrastructure to ensure the port’s efficient functioning as the economic gateway to the South African economy,” Ben-Mazwi said. 

Improving operations 

The Prince Edward Dry Dock, built in the 1920s, remains a key facility for ship repair, maintenance, rescue services and vessel certification. Located in Durban, it contributes to the local economy by creating employment opportunities in marine engineering and ship repair industries.

“There are many other projects that we are doing to ensure that we improve operations, enable the economy of South Africa to grow and ensure that we do not destroy existing jobs. We remain resolute in making sure that we achieve that,” Ben-Mazwi said. 

In March this year, Transnet issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the appointment of a terminal operator to design and transfer a multi-purpose terminal handling agricultural dry bulk and other compatible cargo in the Maydon Wharf Precinct, Port of Durban.

With the precinct extending approximately 145 hectares, featuring 15 berths and boasting capacity of over seven million tons of cargo annually, it primarily serves as a mixed-use area hosting cargo terminal for dry bulk, break bulk, a limited amount of liquid bulk and a small number of containerised units.

Interested parties were invited to submit proposals to design, develop, fund, construct, operate, maintain, and transfer the terminal for a 25-year concession period.

The issuance of the RFP signified Transnet’s ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the Port of Durban. 

By attracting capable terminal operators, Transnet aims to modernise infrastructure, optimise cargo handling and strengthen the port’s role as a key trade gateway for the region. – SAnews.gov.za

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Letsike condemns school bullying incident

Source: Government of South Africa

Letsike condemns school bullying incident

Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, has condemned the viral video depicting a schoolgirl being assaulted.

The video, which has been widely circulated on social media platforms, shows the girl being humiliated and physically assaulted by boys from her school on a school bus. The assault continued even after she had disembarked. 

Letsike described the incident as “appalling” and a stark reminder of the pervasive gender-based violence (GBV) within communities and schools.

“No child deserves to endure such brutality, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our schools are safe havens for learning and growth,” Letsike said.

The Deputy Minister has called on the Department of Basic Education (DBE) to take swift and decisive action, including a full investigation into the incident, disciplinary measures against the perpetrators, and immediate enforcement of anti-bullying laws, as part of the Code of Conduct for all learners.

She also urged the DBE to implement comprehensive prevention programmes to prevent both bullying and acts of GBV in schools.

“This incident should intensify a call to all stakeholders to take immediate action to protect our children and create safe and respectful school environments. We will work tirelessly with the Department of Basic Education, all stakeholders, including parents and educators,” Letsike said.

Letsike emphasised the need for greater vigilance from adults, including parents and teachers, in identifying warning signs and addressing problems promptly.

“Learners must feel safe at school. Parents and other adults can help learners who suffer at the hands of bullies,” she said, adding that schools should be free from violence and GBV. – SAnews.gov.za

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Premier commends KZN law enforcement efforts 

Source: Government of South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thamsanqa Ntuli, has commended law enforcement agencies across the province for their efforts to keep communities safe.

This follows the recent high-impact, intelligence-driven operations by the South African Police Service (SAPS), which have led to major breakthroughs in several high-profile murder investigations.

The arrest of former municipal manager of the uMzimkhulu Local Municipality, Stanley Skhosana, in connection with the 2017 murder of former African National Congress councillor, Sindiso Magaqa was commended. The arrest was executed by the SAPS Political Task Killings Task Team.

“Skhosana’s arrest represents a major development in a case that drew national attention and renewed calls for justice in politically motivated killings,” Ntuli said.

Another key development includes the arrest of two suspects linked to the 2023 assassination of Democratic Alliance councillor and uMngeni Local Municipality Chief Whip, Nhlayenza Mdlovu.

“This is a substantial step toward solving one of the most high-profile political killings in the province,” the Premier said.

Police also apprehended two suspects in connection with the murder of Nokulunga Happiness Mashabane, a 31-year-old official from the KwaDukuza Local Municipality, who was found dead in her vehicle along Zinkwazi Link Road in June. 

Mashabane sustained gunshot wounds to the head.

The arrest follows an intensive investigation led by KwaDukuza police detectives, in partnership with a private security firm, which led to the arrest of Mashabane’s husband.  

A second suspect was later identified and apprehended. Both suspects were arrested on 30 July 2025.
Ntuli commended the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, and all dedicated officers for their professionalism, resolve, and courage.

“These arrests are a clear message to criminals—there is no hiding place. We are reclaiming our communities and restoring the rule of law. KwaZulu-Natal will not be a sanctuary for violence, impunity, or intimidation.”

The Premier emphasised the Provincial Government’s continued prioritisation of justice for victims of violence, particularly women, children, and political leaders targeted for their service. 

The Premier reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing justice for victims of crime, particularly women, children, and political leaders who are targeted for their service to the public.

“We remain fully committed to ending gender-based violence, political killings, and all other forms of violent crime. There can be no true freedom while our communities live in fear. Our vision is a province where every citizen—regardless of age or gender- can walk freely in peace, dignity, and safety.”
Ntuli also urged citizens to work hand in hand with law enforcement and play an active role in building safer communities.

“We urge all citizens to report suspicious activity, cooperate with investigations, and support our police. Together, we can defeat crime, break the cycle of violence, and build a KwaZulu-Natal rooted in peace, justice, and unity,” Ntuli said. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Liquid Intelligent Technologies launches Business Internet Access to support the growth journey of South African businesses

Source: APO

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (Liquid) (https://Liquid.Tech/), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, has announced the launch of its Business Internet Access (BIA) service in South Africa. Designed to meet the demands of modern businesses of all sizes, BIA is a next-generation connectivity solution engineered to provide cost-effective internet access without the cost and complexity of Dedicated Internet Access (DIA) services. 

A distinguishing feature of the product is that organisations have access to an exclusive, dedicated internet line, ensuring consistent speed for critical operations. This is reinforced by a Service Level Agreement (SLA) and a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week, 365-day-a-year helpdesk, which minimises expensive downtime and ensures business continuity and peace of mind. Included in the SLA is up to 99% uptime, ensuring minimal disruption to critical operations. 

“Connectivity is no longer a luxury for businesses that require reliable, high-speed internet to maintain uninterrupted operations. With the launch of BIA through our connectivity business, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, we’re ensuring that we support South African companies of all sizes to ensure the continuous growth of our economy.  This is more than a product launch; it’s yet another milestone achieved to ensure that we leave no South African behind,” said Ziaad Suleman, Chief Executive Officer of Cassava Technologies in South Africa and Botswana. 

Recognising the critical importance of cyber security for businesses, every BIA connection includes Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) visibility reporting as a standard feature. This proactive feature provides insights into potential DDoS threats targeting networks, empowering businesses to make informed cyber security decisions and proactively strengthen their defences against future attacks.

Powered by Liquid’s wholly owned and managed network, the launch of BIA as an offering specifically aimed at supporting businesses, and even SMEs on their growth journeys, reflects the organisation’s purpose of empowering businesses to thrive through digital solutions. This cost-effective offering delivers enterprise-grade performance, reliability, and support, reinforcing the company’s position as a leading provider of technology services in South Africa, offering scalable, high-performance tools tailored to business realities.  

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://Liquid.Tech/.

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Inauguration of New Dental Clinic and Groundbreaking of Dental Training Center at Cheikh Anta Diop University

Source: APO


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A landmark moment for dental education and access to oral healthcare in Senegal was celebrated this weekend at the Department of Dentistry of Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD) in Dakar. Mercy Ships (www.Mercyships.org), in partnership with the Institute of Odontology and Stomatology (IOS), the Ministry of Health and Social Action, and other key stakeholders, inaugurated a brand-new dental clinic and officially laid the foundation stone for a new dental training center, two major projects aimed at transforming dental training and care in Senegal. 

The ceremony brought together senior representatives from government, academia, the healthcare sector, and Mercy Ships. The event marked both a celebration and a shared commitment to improving oral health services in the country. 

“These two infrastructures meet multiple objectives: strengthening national capacities, improving access to quality oral care, by fully integrating initial training into supervised clinical practice,” said Serigne Mbaye, Secretary General of the Ministry of Health and Social Action. 

The newly renovated prosthodontics clinic, now fully operational, is equiped with 10 dental chairs and a dedicated radiology room. 

“Today marks the tangible launch of an ambitious public health initiative, founded on the core values of dignity, solidarity, and equitable access to healthcare,” stated Professor Bara Ndiaye, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry. 

The second major development is the upcoming dental training center, designed to further strengthen training infrastructure. Once completed within the next two years, the center will offer 30 dental chairs for increasing specialization for the sub-region, creating a significant boost in both educational and clinical services. 

“This collaboration reflects Mercy Ships’ long-term commitment to sustainable healthcare capacity building in Senegal and across West Africa,” said David Ugai, Country Director for Guinea at Mercy Ships. 

This milestone is a direct result of a strong partnership between Mercy Ships, UCAD, and national health and education institutions, working together toward the shared goal of empowering a new generation of dental professionals and expanding access to quality oral healthcare for all. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mercy Ships.

For more information: 
Gilchrist Koutob
Managing Director of the Mercy Ships Africa Service Center. 
gilchrist.koutob@mercyships.org

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS:    
Mercy Ships operates hospital ships that deliver free surgeries and other healthcare services to those with little access to safe medical care. An international faith-based organization, Mercy Ships has focused entirely on partnering with nations in Africa for the past three decades. Working with in-country partners, Mercy Ships also provides training to local healthcare professionals and supports the construction of in-country medical infrastructure to leave a lasting impact.  

Each year, more than 2,500 volunteer professionals from over 60 countries serve on board the world’s two largest non-governmental hospital ships, the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy. Professionals such as surgeons, dentists, nurses, health trainers, cooks, and engineers dedicate their time and skills to accelerate access to safe surgical and anesthetic care. Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 and has offices in 16 countries as well as an Africa Service Center in Dakar, Senegal. For more information, visit www.Mercyships.org and follow @MercyShips on social media.  

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Blockchain Fintech Shiga Digital Empowers African Businesses to Leverage Digital Finance Tools

Source: APO


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Shiga Digital (https://Shiga.io), a rapidly growing blockchain-based fintech company, is transforming how African businesses access modern financial services. Today, the company announced the launch of its new Android and iOS apps, expanding access to its end-to-end digital finance platform for businesses and individuals across the continent.

With this milestone, Shiga Digital makes it easier than ever for businesses and individuals to send and receive stablecoin payments, manage cross-border transactions, and access secure digital asset investments all from the convenience of a mobile device.

The launch follows a recent strategic partnership and investment from Tether, the global leader in digital assets and issuer of the world’s most widely used stablecoin. This collaboration marks a major step in scaling blockchain adoption across Africa and signals growing international confidence in the continent’s fintech landscape.

“Africa is on the cusp of a financial transformation, and at Tether, we believe in being more than just observers; we are active enablers,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “Our strategic alliance with Shiga Digital is rooted in a shared belief that access to stable, secure, and scalable financial tools should not be a privilege, but a right. This partnership represents a long-term commitment to equipping African businesses with the technology and infrastructure needed to thrive in an increasingly digital global economy. Together, we are unlocking new pathways for growth and innovation and helping to shape a more inclusive financial future for the continent.”

Shiga Digital’s platform was built for African businesses, especially mid-sized companies seeking alternatives to legacy financial systems. By integrating blockchain-based tools, the company simplifies payments, enables faster cross-border trade, and offers transparent access to stable, secure digital finance.

“We’re not just building tech, we’re building financial infrastructure that works for Africa,” said Abiola Shogbeni, Co-Founder and CEO of Shiga Digital. “Our new mobile apps are a major step in our mission to level the playing field. They bring intuitive, locally relevant financial tools right into the hands of business owners, wherever they are.”

Shiga Digital partners with licensed financial transmitters in each of its markets to ensure its services are fully compliant, locally relevant, and aligned with applicable regulatory requirements.

“What sets us apart is how and why we’re building,” added Dami Etomi, Co-Founder and COO. “This isn’t just about technology… It’s about creating solutions that scale impact. Our partnership with Tether goes beyond financial backing; it’s a shared commitment to the future of finance in Africa.”

As more African businesses adopt blockchain-powered financial tools, Shiga Digital is positioning itself at the forefront of this movement, offering a platform built to meet local needs, backed by global standards.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Shiga Digital.

Contact:
Daniel Okechukwu
+2348067499714
daniel@shiga.io

About Shiga Digital:
Founded in 2021, Shiga Digital is an international fintech company developing innovative blockchain financial applications. With operations across 15+ countries, the company bridges the gap between traditional finance and decentralized systems making digital finance more accessible, secure, and efficient for African businesses and individuals.

To learn more or download the app, visit https://Shiga.io or download the app on the Apple AppStore and Google Play Store (http://apo-opa.co/4mfqrza).

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Morocco: His Majesty (HM) the King Congratulates Niger’s Head of State on National Day

Source: APO – Report:

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His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent a message of congratulations to General Abdourahamane Tiani, President of the Republic of Niger and Head of State, on the occasion of his country’s national day.

In this message, the Sovereign expresses His congratulations and warmest wishes for the happiness and prosperity of the Nigerien people.

On this occasion, His Majesty the King welcomes the excellent relations of brotherhood and solidarity between the two countries, assuring the Head of State of Niger of Morocco’s constant willingness to work alongside the Republic of Niger in favor of solid and ambitious cooperation, to the benefit of both peoples and the African continent.

– on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

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Qatar Strongly Condemns Settlers’ Storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque Complex

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – August 4, 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the storming of the courtyards of the blessed Al-Aqsa Mosque by dozens of Israeli settlers, led by the Minister of National Security in the occupation government. Qatar considers this act a blatant violation of international law and a provocation to the sentiments of Muslims worldwide.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns against the continued violations against the Palestinian people and their Islamic and Christian holy sites, stressing that such actions will only escalate violence in the region. The Ministry also underscores the responsibility of the international community to uphold its moral and legal obligations regarding Jerusalem and its sacred sites.

The Ministry reiterates Qatar’s firm position in support of the just cause of the Palestinian people and their legitimate rights, including the full right to freely practice their religious rituals and to establish an independent state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.