Gabon’s Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Power Expansion

Source: APO


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Philippe Tonangoye, Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy of Gabon, will participate at the African energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025. His participation comes as Gabon implements an aggressive strategy to enhance access to water and energy, with strategic investments and partnerships in infrastructure, power and local businesses. His insights will support future investments as project developers, financiers and global partners convene in Cape Town to discuss strategies for making energy poverty history.

For Gabon, natural gas has emerged as a cornerstone of the country’s petroleum and power development. The country aims to utilize its offshore resources to drive economic growth, leveraging investments in gas-to-power and floating power generation solutions to enhance energy access country-wide. The country’s long-awaited Orinko gas-to-power plant is on track to start construction soon, with a Shareholders’ Agreement signed in May 2025 to advance the project. The project is expected to play a vital role in expanding Gabonese power access, as it will boost the country’s generation capacity by 50%. Developed by Orinko SPV – comprising the state-owned Gabon Power Company in partnership with Wärtsilä, Africa 50, FGIS and Melec PowerGen – the project will be constructed under a build-own-operate-transfer IPP model. Otinko will utilize offshore gas resources as feedstock to produce electricity, laying the foundation for greater generating capacity in Gabon. At present, gas power plants operated by independent oil and gas company Perenco account for 70% of the power in Libreville and 100% of the power in Port-Gentil. With the Orinko facility, Gabon will be well-positioned to significantly enhance access.

Beyond natural gas, Gabon is spearheading a pipeline of renewable energy developments, seeking to enhance access to both grid-connected and off-grid power in pursuit of universal access by 2030. The Orinko milestone follows the start of operations at energy company Karpowership’s floating power plants in Gabon in February 2025. The plants provide electricity to the capital city of Libreville and other regions, thereby boosting the power grid while offering a clean source of power to underserves communities. Karpowership signed a contract in 2024 with Gabon to provide 250 MW of electricity to the country for a period of five years. The company has been supplying 25% of the country’s total electricity via two powership situated at different locations. These solutions represent a flexible and scalable option for Gabon as it strives to enhance access to electricity through modernized infrastructure solutions. Meanwhile, Gabon is investing in new hydropower projects. Currently approximately half of the power consumed in the country is derived from hydro, largely from the Grand Poubara Hydroelectric Dam (160 MW) and Kinguele Aval Hydroelectric Dam (70 MW). However, to achieve its energy goals, much more investment is needed across the power market.

To further support project development, Gabon established a National Fund for Energy and Water (FNEE) in 2025, aimed at mobilizing capital for energy and water projects. The FNEE will address power outages by implementing short-term measures, driving key infrastructure investments and boosting regional energy cooperation. The fund also seeks to revive delayed power projects, including the 125 MW Owendo thermal power station – planned for 2027 -, the Ngoulmendjim and L’impératrice Eugénie hydroelectric plants. The fund falls under the country’s broader National Development Plan for Transition, with the three projects alone requiring an estimated $453 million to develop. This highlights a strategic opportunity for investors and projects developers seeking to make impactful investments in Africa.

“Gabon’s strategy to achieve universal access to electricity is expected to unlock a wealth of economic and development opportunities for the country. By utilizing a variety of different power generation solutions – from gas-to-power to floating facilities to hydroelectric projects and renewables – the country is diversifying and strengthening its portfolio of power facilities. This approach not only creates greater opportunities for energy access but opens up the market to a variety of investors and project developers,” states Ore Onagbesan, Program Director, AEW: Invest in African Energies.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About AEW: Invest in African Energies:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit https://AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

ConocoPhillips’ Frederic Phipps Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Amid Equatorial Guinea Expansion

Source: APO

Frederic Phipps, President: Equatorial Guinea at global exploration and production company ConocoPhillips, has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference as a speaker. Taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025, in Cape Town, the event is the premier meeting place for the continent’s oil, gas and broader energy sectors. With various stages of oil and gas exploration, development and production activities in Equatorial Guinea, ConocoPhillips is an instrumental player in the country. As such, Phipps is well-positioned to discuss strategies for enhancing LNG production and exports at a time when Equatorial Guinea is consolidating its position as a major gas hub. 

Aligned with a goal to expand its global portfolio, ConocoPhillips has committed to positioning itself as a key player in Equatorial Guinea’s gas market. The company transported its inaugural LNG cargo from the country in June 2025. The ConocoPhillips-marketed cargo was loaded from the country’s EG LNG terminal at the Punta Europa facility on June 9, forming part of the broader Gas Mega Hub initiative – which seeks to leverage existing infrastructure to create a regional gas industry. During AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Phipps is expected to share insights into ConocoPhillips’ strategy in Equatorial Guinea, from LNG production to exploration plans to future exports and investments.

AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

ConocoPhillips plays an instrumental part in developing and producing oil and gas resources in Equatorial Guinea. The country operates in both the Alba and Block D production sharing contracts that form the Alba Unit, located offshore Equatorial Guinea. In 2024, the company further enhanced its presence in Equatorial Guinea with the acquisition of independent oil and gas company Marathon Oil. The acquisition – which saw Marathon Oil become a subsidiary of ConocoPhillips – adds to the company’s deep, durable and diverse portfolio. Marathon Oil supports the development of the country’s Gas Mega Hub, with a five-year agreement in place with natural resource company Glencore for its equity natural gas from the Alba field. The agreement optimizes gas operations by redirecting partial volumes from the methanol plant to the LNG facility. The first LNG cargo represents a key step forward in this agreement.

ConocoPhillips operations in Equatorial Guinea form part of a global strategy which seeks to position the company as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape. Beyond West Africa, the company is strengthening its presence in North Africa, with key investments in Libya. As a long-term partner in the country, ConocoPhillips is targeting increased production through upgrades to existing facilities and investments in underdeveloped reserves. Currently, the company has been gradually increasing production at the Waha concession, which presently produces around 375,000 barrels per day (bpd). Targeting between 600,000 and 700,000 bpd, ConocoPhillips is leveraging collaborations, new workover programs and pipeline integrity to bolster output.

As the company seeks to strengthen its footprint in North and West Africa, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 offers a vital platform for enhanced collaboration and industry engagement. Uniting stakeholders from both the global and African energy landscapes, the event seeks to drive investment into African energy by providing a platform for engagement and dealmaking. Phipps’ participation underscores ConocoPhillips’ commitment to investing in oil and gas production in Africa and is poised to unlock new opportunities for industry growth in Africa.

“ConocoPhillips continues to play a major role in increasing African oil and gas production. Through strategic investments in Libya and an expanded presence in Equatorial Guinea, the company is creating greater value from the continent’s oil and gas resources. Looking ahead, these investments are expected to fuel the next era of industry development as Africa seeks to make energy poverty history through accelerated hydrocarbon production,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

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Jamaica accedes to Afreximbank, strengthening ties to Global Africa

Source: APO

Jamaica has officially acceded to the Establishment Agreement of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), becoming the 13th Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member State of the African Multilateral Financial Institution. The historic signing took place on the sidelines of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community.

Jamaica’s accession marks a major achievement in the growth of Global Africa: an intercontinental partnership committed to economic transformation and self-determination for African nations and their diaspora. The move unlocks an additional US$1.5 billion financing for Jamaica and other Caribbean economies, raising Afreximbank’s total approved facility for the region to US$3 billion, contingent upon full CARICOM membership.

Commenting at the signing ceremony, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, emphasised the mutual benefits to both parties:

“We are thrilled to welcome Jamaica into the Afreximbank family. Jamaica’s accession to the Partnership Agreement marks a pivotal step towards realising the vision of our forefathers—a united and prosperous Global Africa, built on a platform of South-South cooperation. The Partnership Agreement unlocks Afreximbank’s financing solutions, trade facilitation tools, and investment opportunities, empowering Jamaican businesses to access African markets while fostering reciprocal trade.

Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, expressed his optimism for Jamaica’s membership of the Bank:

“This is a significant and strategic step that strengthens Jamaica’s ability to access increased trade financing, investment support, and technical assistance. The agreement creates real opportunities for Jamaica to benefit from Afreximbank’s expanding suite of financial instruments, including trade guarantees, project financing, and capital support tailored to the needs of developing economies. It positions Jamaica to tap into new sources of funding for critical sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and the creative industries, while laying the foundation for deeper collaboration between African and Caribbean businesses.”

This historic signing builds on the momentum of the inaugural AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF), held in Bridgetown, Barbados in September 2022, where Caribbean nations reaffirmed their commitment to closer Africa-Caribbean cooperation. Since then, Afreximbank has hosted successive ACTIFs in Guyana (2023) and The Bahamas (2024), with the fourth forum scheduled for 28–29 July 2025 in Grenada.

Since establishing its regional office, Afreximbank has approved over US$700 million in financing across the Caribbean, with a pipeline exceeding US$2 billion. Investments have supported key sectors such as energy, tourism, education, and small business development across Barbados, St. Lucia, Suriname, Grenada, and The Bahamas. The Bank also provided over US$4.3 million in pandemic-related assistance through the Africa Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT) to The Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, and Trinidad & Tobago.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

Media Contact:
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

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Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej meets the Maldives First Lady to underscore Merck Foundation’s Commitment to provide scholarships for Local Doctors in 44 critical and underserved specialties

Source: APO – Report:

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany underscored their long-term commitment to build healthcare capacity and break infertility stigma in Maldives during their high-level meeting with H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, held at the Official Residence of the President. The discussion led by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It was an honor to meet my dear sister H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives, and officially appointing her to be the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During our meeting we discussed our joint programs and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local doctors. We also discussed about addressing critical social and health issues in the country including breaking the infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence, women empowerment, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.”

H.E. Mrs. SAJIDHA MOHAMED, The First Lady of the Republic of Maldives and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO to our country. We discussed our joint programs. I am happy to share that we have already started providing scholarships for our local doctors in Fertility and Embryology training. These are two very critical specialties for our country. We also plan to enroll our doctors in other specialties, further underscoring our partnership with the Merck Foundation to enhance healthcare capacity in the Maldives.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT shared, “Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program. Till today, we have provided more than 2270 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties.”

During their visit to the Maldives, the Chairman and CEO of Merck Foundation also met with Hon. Mr. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, Minister of Health, where they discussed scaling up the scholarship programs in alignment with the country’s healthcare needs.

Through their Community Awareness Programs, Merck Foundation is also closely working with The First Lady of Maldives to address a wide range of critical social issues like breaking infertility stigma, stopping gender-based violence and women empowerment, and important health issues including promoting the importance of healthy lifestyle, and diabetes and hypertension awareness.

Merck Foundation will be soon conducting their Health Media Training together with The First Lady of Maldives for the Maldivian journalists, to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift and be the voice of the voiceless. The training program will be addressed by prominent Medical and Media experts.

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

“I invite the young talents from the Maldives to share their entries with us,” added Senator Dr. Kelej.

Details of the Awards:

  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025, in partnership with The First Lady of Maldives: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at: submit@merck-foundation.com

For information on the awards, please visit our website: www.Merck-Foundation.com

– on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

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About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4lH9762), X (https://apo-opa.co/4kuBVNZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3Imd8hQ), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/466FO8w), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4nOfvu8) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/44MJeel).

The Merck Foundation is dedicated to improving social and health outcomes for communities in need. While it collaborates with various partners, including governments to achieve its humanitarian goals, the foundation remains strictly neutral in political matters. It does not engage in or support any political activities, elections, or regimes, focusing solely on its mission to elevate humanity and enhance well-being while maintaining a strict non-political stance in all of its endeavors.

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Forvis Mazars Expands Across Africa, Joins African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Gold Partner

Source: APO – Report:

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Forvis Mazars – a global audit, assurance, tax, advisory and consulting services firm – is strengthening its commitment to Africa’s energy development through strategic partnerships, market expansion and financial expertise that drives energy growth across the continent. Formed through the merger of Mazars and Forvis, the global professional services network is expanding its footprint in Africa with new offices in Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Burkina Faso, bringing its total presence to 26 countries across the continent.

As a Gold Partner of this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference, the firm plays a key role in enhancing corporate governance, boosting project bankability and facilitating long-term investment in Africa’s energy market. AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies will take place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town under the theme Positioning Africa as the Global Energy Champion.

In Nigeria, Forvis Mazars recently launched a $5 billion global financial advisory firm in Lagos, creating a gateway to world-class financial services to support local project development. In Zimbabwe, the firm opened operations amid the country’s second gas discovery at the Mukuyu-2 well, aligning with upstream sector growth. Meanwhile, new offices in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso reflect the firm’s strategic focus on West Africa’s booming energy sector, as projects such as Senegal’s Sangomar oilfield and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG terminal – straddling the maritime border between Senegal and Mauritania – gain momentum.

Forvis Mazars supports energy stakeholders with end-to-end financial advisory services that unlock value at every stage of the project lifecycle. From audits for LNG ventures to advising on energy taxation in oil-rich regions, the firm combines deep regional knowledge with global standards of excellence. Its role in Africa’s energy market is expected to grow alongside increasing demand for transparent, sustainable and compliant financial practices.

As a trusted advisor to governments, developers and multinationals, Forvis Mazars has become a critical enabler of energy investment and economic development. Its participation as a gold partner at AEW 2025: Invest in African Energies highlights the firm’s pivotal role in shaping Africa’s energy landscape through rigorous financial guidance, capacity building and private sector support.

“Forvis Mazars’ participation as a gold partner at AEW 2025 underscores the vital role financial expertise plays in accelerating energy development across Africa. Their presence strengthens the bridge between global investment standards and local project execution, ensuring transparency and long-term value creation. We are proud to welcome a partner so deeply committed to Africa’s energy future,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

About African Energy Week:
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

Operation Vulindlela Progress Report shows momentum on economic reform

Source: APO – Report:

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The Presidency and National Treasury have today, 11 July 2025, released a quarterly progress report for Q1 2025/26 on the implementation of economic reform through Operation Vulindlela. This report is the first to be released since the launch of Phase II of Operation Vulindlela this year.

Operation Vulindlela is a joint initiative of The Presidency and National Treasury, which aims to achieve more rapid and inclusive economic growth through a programme of far-reaching economic reform.

Phase I of Operation Vulindlela focused on unlocking progress in five priority areas: electricity, freight logistics, water, telecommunications, and the visa system. These reforms were selected for their high potential to catalyse investment, enhance economic competitiveness, and create jobs. Phase II represents a second wave of structural reform aimed at unlocking more rapid, inclusive, and sustained economic growth. While continuing to drive implementation of reforms initiated during Phase I, the second phase introduces new focus areas that respond to evolving challenges in the economy.

The report released today demonstrates sustained progress in the economic reform agenda, which serves as a counter to strong economic headwinds. Key milestones during the past quarter include the publication of a Ministerial Determination and associated regulations to enable the first round of Independent Transmission Projects, as well as a Request for Information for major private sector participation (PSP) projects in the freight logistics sector.

Progress has also been made in the new areas of reform included in Phase II, with a comprehensive review of the White Paper on Local Government to reform the local government system and the introduction of a performance-based financing mechanism to support the reform of municipal water and electricity services. The Digital Transformation Roadmap has been approved by Cabinet and is in implementation, with the development of a digital identity system and other core elements of the roadmap already advanced.

Further details on progress in each of the reform areas is available in the full report, which can be accessed here. https://www.stateofthenation.gov.za/operation-vulindlela

– on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Republic of Korea rice donation provides critical boost to World Food Programme (WFP)’s emergency response for refugees in Kenya

Source: APO – Report:

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The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) welcomed a contribution of 23,268 metric tons of rice from the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of the Republic of Korea, valued at US$18 million, to support the food needs of refugees in Kenya.

This contribution – the largest from the Republic of Korea since it began supporting refugees in Kenya in 2018 – will  support the food needs of 720,000 refugees in Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camps and Kalobeyei settlement for six months.

“This generous contribution is vital as we work to respond to the needs of an increasing number of refugees in Kenya, while the resources available to support them are decreasing,” said Baimankay Sankoh, WFP’s Deputy Country Director in Kenya. “Most refugees are unable to work or return home and are entirely dependent on humanitarian assistance to survive. This generous rice contribution from the Republic of Korea is more vital than ever for WFP to continue supporting the food needs of hundreds of thousands of refugees. And we sincerely hope that this expanded rice contribution will continue in the future.” 

Over the past five years, the number of refugees and asylum seekers in Kenya has increased by over 70 percent – from around 500,000 to 843,000 – as people have fled conflict in neighbouring countries like Somalia and South Sudan. But, despite the generous support from many donors, funding shortfalls have forced WFP to reduce food rations for refugees to one-third of a ration.

Korean rice is known for its high quality, while the reliable delivery from the Republic of Korea on a fixed annual schedule, allows WFP to plan effectively and respond flexibly to shifting needs on the ground. This predictable support contributes to safeguarding the dignity of refugees by ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food.

“The Republic of Korea is proud to stand alongside other nations in responding to the rising hunger crisis and providing hope to thousands of families in the eastern Africa region,” said H.E. Kang Hyung-shik, the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya. “Our history is deeply rooted in global solidarity, and we remain committed to standing with those in need.”

The Republic of Korea is a significant donor to WFP in Kenya, providing annual rice contributions that help WFP maintain consistent humanitarian operations. Between 2018 and 2025, WFP has received rice contributions to the value of US$ 88 million through MAFRA in support of refugees.

– on behalf of World Food Programme (WFP).

Government to increase sexual offences courts 

Source: Government of South Africa

Government to increase sexual offences courts 

Government is set to increase the national footprint of sexual offences courts as part of the fight against gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF).

“Going forward, we will increase the national footprint of sexual offences courts, particularly in rural communities with additional 16 sexual offences courts to be established in line with the recent amendments to the law and two additional TCCs (Thuthuzela Care Centers). 

“The Sexual Offences Courts shall assist to deal with the alarming figures of sexual violence in the country and offer support services that are tailor-made for the survivors of sex crime,” Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said.

This as she tabled the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development Budget Vote on Wednesday.
The Minister said that GBVF continues to devastate individuals and communities. 

“We have a duty to do all that we can to protect the victims of gender-based violence, especially women and children. In this connection, the department has adopted a victim biased and victim centric approach which puts the victim first to avoid case bungling which gets perpetrators off the hook and secondary victimisation.”

This as over the  2024-25 period, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) recorded 3 697 convictions in relation to sexual offence with over 79% convicted with direct imprisonment, while 44 147 victims were supported at the 66 TCCs across the country. 

“In collaboration with [the] SAPS [South African Police Service], the DNA project has processed 60 518 DNA samples to track and deal with repeat sexual offenders and serial rapists.”

Additionally, the department will ensure that all convicted sex offenders are registered in the National Register for Sexual Offenders (NRSO) and initiate a process to review legislation that is currently an inhibitor to the public release of this register. 

The department further plans to ensure that protection orders are served by the clerk of the court on the respondent no later than 24 hours from the time the order is received by the clerk of the court.

TRC matters 

On matters related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), the Minister said it was important for all of society to work together to heal the divisions of the past. 

“The TRC made recommendations and in June 2003, Parliament approved the granting of reparations to TRC identified victims in respect of final reparation in the form of a once-off grant of R30 000,00; medical benefits and other forms of social assistance; symbols and monuments; and rehabilitation of communities for purposes of contributing to healing the wounds of the past and restoring human dignity.”

She added that the total amount paid to individuals as interim reparations stands at almost R53 million while the total amount paid for the final once-off individual grants is just below R500 million.

In basic education, the total number of learners funded is 11934 and the payments made to the beneficiaries in respect of this reparation is about R137 million.

The total number of students funded is 1922 and the payments made to the beneficiaries in respect of this reparation is R132 million.

“[The] Gallows Exhumation project out of a total of 180 remains recovered including missing persons, gallows and other cases 76 have been handed over to families and will conclude two that are remaining this year.

On TRC related criminal cases and inquest work, there are total of 158 separate investigations. There are a total seven reopened inquests, 10 formal inquests, six finalised inquests, four pending inquests and two convictions.

“President Cyril Ramaphosa has established A Judicial Commission of Inquiry into allegations regarding efforts or attempts were made to stop the investigation or prosecution of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission cases to be chaired by retired Constitutional Court Judge Sisi Khampepe,” said the Minister.

READ | President establishes commission of inquiry into delay in TRC cases

The establishment of the commission of inquiry is part of an agreement reached in settlement discussions in a court application brought by families of victims of apartheid-era crimes. 

Fighting fraud and corruption

On matters related to the fight against fraud, the department will increase efforts towards disrupting and reducing the effects of organised crime through a multi-stakeholder approach. It will collaborate closely with key partners, including the SAPS, Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS). 

“The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the NPA successfully recovered over R3.9 billion in ill-gotten gains through the implementation of the Corporate Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanism, thus ensuring that persons and entities do not benefit from unlawful activities and corruption.”

In the financial year 2024/25, the Special Investigation Unit (SIU) recovered a cash value of more than R833 million, assets to the value of R 1.3 billion, set aside irregular contracts worth R 5.6 billion and prevented potential loss to the state to tune R 2.7 billion.

“The establishment of the Special Tribunal has allowed for expedited resolutions and substantial recovery for the state, showcasing the Unit’s effectiveness. The SIU will also enhance its anti-corruption through among others establishing a dedicated Lifestyle Audit Unit as a permanent capability to enhance its mandate in detecting unexplained wealth and preventing corrupt practices.”

“This initiative includes the acquisition of an advanced lifestyle audit analytics tool that will increase efficiency and enable high-quality, evidence-based reporting. The Unit will ensure protection of whistle-blowers and SIU personnel integral to upholding the integrity of anti-corruption efforts,” said Kubayi. –SAnews.gov.za 

 

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Berg winds in South Africa: the winter weather pattern that increases wildfire risks

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Sheldon Strydom, Senior Lecturer & Head of Department, Department of Geography, Rhodes University

Winter in some parts of South Africa is a time of low (or no) rainfall and high fire danger. Sheldon Strydom studies the relationship between weather and fire, in particular how Berg winds, also known as mountain flow events, are linked to periods of enhanced fire danger. Mid-July is typically a high risk period. He shares what he has learnt during his research in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa, close to the country’s largest mountain range, the Drakensberg.

What are Berg winds and how do they form?

It’s long been known that mountain winds (“foëhn winds”, “chinook winds” and the like) increase fire danger. There’s case study evidence from around the globe.

In South Africa, these mountain winds are known as Berg winds. They are generally experienced as warm and dry.

A mountain wind starts when a mass of air is forced to rise along a windward slope (the side of the mountain that wind is blowing towards). As the mass of air rises it cools. When it reaches the peak of the slope or mountain it descends on the leeward (sheltered) side. As it gets lower, the air gets warmer.

Berg winds commonly occur in South African winters when high atmospheric pressure systems are situated over the interior of the country and low pressure systems are situated off the coast. (Atmospheric pressure is the pressure of air over the land, and affects the movement of air.)

Usually, a coastal low pressure system happens a day or two before a cold front. The pressure gradient (difference in pressure that drives wind) between the interior high pressure cell and coastal low pressure cell results in air flowing towards the coast from the interior of the country, down the mountain escarpment. The air reaches coastal areas as a warm, dry wind.

Why study the relationship between Berg winds and fires?

Winds can spread fires in the landscape.

Our study, using data from four sites in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, quantified the effect of Berg winds on the microclimate (local weather conditions) and emphasised how these changes influence fire danger.

The sources of fires in South Africa, as elsewhere, vary. For example, wildfires can be started when prescribed burning, or the planned use of fire, becomes uncontrolled due to changes in weather conditions. Accidental fires and arson are the most common causes of wildfires. Research shows that wildfires and fire disasters are common in areas where prescribed burning is used.

Prescribed burning, or the planned use of fire, is an important aspect of agricultural management. It promotes the dispersal and germination of seeds from a number of species and also removes ground litter. Prescribed burning is used to manage grasslands and has been linked to decreasing the number of disease-borne vectors such as ticks.

But if they get out of control, fires pose a threat to farmland and plantations.

It’s therefore vital to have weather forecasts and monitoring systems that warn of conditions conducive to the development and spread of fires.

Internationally, fire danger indices or meters are used to monitor conditions. In South Africa, the South African Weather Service and other interested and affected parties currently use the Lowveld fire danger index. The index is calculated using records of air temperature, relative humidity and wind speed and rainfall. These are measured once a day. Daily forecasts are available from the Weather Service and disseminated to local fire protection associations.

Much research in South Africa has focused on pyrogeography (understanding when and where fires occur) and fire ecology. Little research has been done to quantify the effects of Berg winds on fire danger using available historical hourly meteorological data.

The midlands of KwaZulu-Natal province serve as a perfect environment to study the effects of Berg winds on the microclimate and fire danger. The area is close to the Drakensberg mountains and experiences frequent fires. It’s also a largely agricultural area.


Read more: Southern Africa’s rangelands do many jobs, from feeding cattle to storing carbon: a review of 60 years of research


What did you discover?

The study developed a fuzzy logic system (a mathematical method for handling uncertainty) to identify periods of Berg wind conditions using historical hourly meteorological data in four sites.

We analysed variables like the air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and fire danger at different times of the day and night, before and during Berg winds.

The analysis revealed the significance of change experienced in the local weather conditions (within 2km) during periods of Berg winds, and how these changes influence fire danger.

It found that:

  • Berg winds were more common during daytime hours and affected the microclimate most during the day

  • during daytime Berg wind events, air temperatures rose by an average of 5.5°C; humidity fell by an average of 16%; and wind speed increased by an average of 5.2 metres per second

  • daytime Berg wind events significantly elevated fire danger

  • night-time Berg winds, while less common, did still result in significant change in the microclimate

  • at night, fire danger increases when a combination of variables change significantly.

The fuzzy logic system can be useful in two ways: to quantify the effects of Berg winds on the microclimate and to complement any fire danger monitoring system. It can measure conditions at a higher temporal resolution, such as every 10 minutes, or hour – making it more useful for monitoring near real-time changes in fire danger.

The system could be valuable for operational use by agencies like the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Disaster Management Centre, and could be applied in other regions vulnerable to fire risk.

– Berg winds in South Africa: the winter weather pattern that increases wildfire risks
– https://theconversation.com/berg-winds-in-south-africa-the-winter-weather-pattern-that-increases-wildfire-risks-260612

Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Undersecretary of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

Source: Government of Qatar

Rome, July 10

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met Thursday with HE Undersecretary of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Maria Tripodi on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery 2025 Conference, currently underway in Rome.

Discussion during the meeting dealt with cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them. The two sides also discussed the State of Qatar’s efforts to reunite Ukrainian children with their families, as part of its ongoing mediation aimed at reuniting families separated by the Russian-Ukrainian crisis. A host of development matters of common interest were also discussed.

During the meeting, HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation affirmed Qatar’s full support for international efforts aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the Russian-Ukrainian crisis through dialogue and diplomatic means.