#BigPushProject: Mahama cuts sod for Wenchi-Sawla-Wa road

Source: APO


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President John Dramani Mahama has assured that the Big Push project, aimed at transforming Ghana’s economy through extensive road and infrastructure development, is rooted in fairness and equity to ensure both the northern and southern regions of Ghana develop together.

The President, speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Wenchi-Sawla-Wa highway, said the first set of roads selected are the most important at risk across all regions, and the immediate objective is to connect regional and district capitals and other key corridors.

“We are here to cut sod to cover three regions, Bono East, Savannah, and Upper West regions. Today’s sod cutting marks the commencement of reconstruction for the road from Wenchi to Wa. It will be a new road, very well constructed as an international route to the landlocked countries in Burkina Faso and Mali,” the President said.

This sod cutting, he added, “also marks the beginning of a rehabilitation of the Fufolsu – Sawla Road, which was funded under my past administration with a loan from the African Development Bank.”

The President explained, “The Wenchi-Wa Road is not an ordinary route. It is part of what we call the National Route N12, and it extends from Wenchi in the Bono region, passes through Bamboi, through Bandan Nkwanta and Tinga, to Sawla, to Tuna and eventually to Wa in the Upper West Region.”

This, he said, will open a new corridor of progress to reconnect regions, markets, and families, renewing the promise of inclusive development and affirming that every part of Ghana deserves modern infrastructure, dignity, and opportunity.

The project covers 195 kilometres and is divided into seven lots to facilitate concurrent execution for completion within two years.

“We expect compliance with the highest technical standards, environmental protection and transparent oversight by the Ghana Highway Authority and the Ministry of Roads and Highways”, he cautioned.

It is estimated that between 2,000 and 2,500 vehicles pass through the Wenchi-Sawla-Wa corridor, now under construction, carrying nearly 4,000 tons of grain, yams, cashews, and livestock from the middle belts to the north.

“This road handles a significant volume of Ghana’s agri-freight traffic”, – the President emphasised, explaining that it remains a vital support to the country’s grain and livestock economy, connecting rich farmlands of the Bono East Region to the Sahel trade routes via Hamile on Ghana’s Northern border.

“The whole of Ghana is going to be a construction site for the next two years, accept the inconvenience”, the President added.

The Minister for Roads and Highways, Kwame Governs Agbodza, assured contractors that, under the Big Push Agenda, there would be no delay in payments for work done.

Bolewura Sarfo Kutuge Feso I used the occasion to praise the President’s steadfast dedication to national infrastructure development.

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

Ghana: President Mahama commissions the Damongo Camp Prison

Source: APO


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President John Dramani Mahama has commended The Church of Pentecost for assisting the Ghana Prisons Service with three modern facilities at Ejura, Nsawam, and Damongo.

The President was speaking when he commissioned a 300-capacity correctional centre built by the Church at Damango, the Savana regional capital, on Wednesday.

He said the event marks not only the opening of a correctional facility, but also the unveiling of a very powerful symbol of hope, redemption, and partnership for national renewal.

“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when the state, the Church, and the community come together in service to humanity.”

President Mahama added, “It affirms a timeless truth that nation building is not the sole responsibility of government, but a collective moral endeavour of all who believe in the inherent dignity and potential of every human being”.

He reiterated the government’s decision to expand the Ghana Prisons Service’s contribution to national development by providing logistics to undertake large-scale farming, poultry, and vegetable production as part of a wider prison reform programme.

This, he said, will not only increase food production but generate income to sustain the Service and equip inmates with practical skills for life after their incarceration.

“The Ghana Prisons Service will actively contribute to the 24-hour economy by running prison industries around the clock. This will include manufacturing, sewing school uniforms, producing furniture, agro-processing, and other goods, both for government use and for the open market,” he added.

The President announced an increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates.
“We’ve increased the daily feeding rate for inmates from GHS 1.80 to GHS 5.00. This will provide better nutrition for those incarcerated. This is not charity, it is justice. It reflects our belief that dignity should never be dependent on one’s circumstances.”

President Mahama also announced that he would provide the Damongo Camp Prisons with a 66-seater bus to facilitate staff movement.

“On behalf of the Government and People of Ghana, I wish to express our deep gratitude to Apostle Eric Nyamekye, the Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, the leadership and members of the Church of Pentecost, for your faith in humanity, your partnership with the state, your belief in Mandela’s dictum, that ‘society’s greatness is measured by how it treats its most vulnerable citizens.”

The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Dr Eric Nyamekye, said their primary objective is to raise disciples of Christ, who would impact their world with righteousness. He added that the Church regards the prison camps as a ‘Kingdom Project’, designed not only to save souls but also to foster the transformation of society.

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

Joint Statement on 25 Years of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325: Delivering on the Promise of Women’s Leadership for Peace and Security in Somalia

Source: APO


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Open Day on Women, Peace and Security

BACKGROUND:

Somalia has shown steadfast commitment to the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda through the adoption of national and local action plans aligned with UNSCR 1325 and is now developing its second National Action Plan. Long before the Resolution’s adoption, Somali women were already advancing its principles, most notably through the historic “sixth clan” movement that secured their place in peacebuilding and political processes. While progress has been made, significant efforts are needed to ensure lasting peace and security amidst continuing security challenges. Addressing conflicts and improving safety and security in Somalia requires women’s increased participation in peace processes and in the security sector while also building on achievements so far – women’s increased representation in legislatures and leadership roles, and a constitutional amendment mandating a 30% quota for women in electoral laws. 

CALL TO ACTION:

As the world marks 25 years since the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (WPS), we, the undersigned, reaffirm our collective commitment to advancing women’s leadership and participation in peacebuilding, security, and governance across Somalia. We call upon the Federal Government of Somalia, the United Nations, and all development and humanitarian partners to strengthen their efforts toward the meaningful inclusion of women and girls in all peace and security processes.

We urge:

  • Expanded roles for women in political, peace and security processes at local, regional, and national levels to ensure that decision-making reflects the voices and priorities of women and communities.
  • Increased investment in localizing the WPS agenda, ensuring that women in remote, conflict-affected, and marginalized areas directly benefit from peacebuilding, security, and recovery initiatives.
  • Transparent, inclusive and accountable implementation of Somalia’s National Action Plan on Women, Peace and Security, including regular public reporting and mechanisms for community and civil society feedback.
  • Full inclusion of women in the security sector reform’s decision-making processes, peace negotiations, and post-conflict reconstruction, recognizing their vital contributions to building sustainable peace and security.
  • Strengthened coordination and resource mobilization, led by the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development in collaboration with relevant Somali authorities and local and international partners, to ensure coherent national implementation of the WPS agenda at all levels of government.
  • Enhanced protection and support mechanisms for women human rights defenders, peacebuilders, and survivors of conflict-related violence, ensuring access to justice, sexual and reproductive health and rights and psychosocial services, and economic reintegration opportunities.

As we commemorate this milestone, we reaffirm that sustainable development and peace are only possible when women and girls are equal partners in shaping the future of Somalia.

Signed:

  1. Mohamed Bashir Omar, Director General, Federal Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development

  2. El-Khidr Daloum, Acting Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, UN Somalia

  3. Nelli Mikkola, Deputy Head of Mission to Somalia, Embassy of Finland

  4. Gertrud Kümmel Birk, Deputy Head of Mission to Somalia and Head of Cooperation, Embassy of Denmark

  5. Zahra Mohamed Ahmed, AWLN Somalia Chapter Chairman/SWDC Executive Director/Civil Society Organizations-CSOs/Women-led Organizations Representative

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of UN Women – Africa.

Arab Coordination Group and Government of Azerbaijan Strengthen Strategic Development Partnership

Source: APO

The Arab Coordination Group (ACG) (https://TheACG.org/) institutions gathered in Baku for a High-Level Roundtable with the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan, hosted by H.E. Mr. Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy, to explore new avenues for cooperation and advance joint development initiatives.

The Roundtable brought together the leadership of the ACG member institutions:

  • H.E. Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser, Chairman of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group
  • H.E. Mr. Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD)
  • H.E. Mr. Waleed Shamlan Al-Bahar, Acting Director General of the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED)
  • H.E. Dr. Abdulhamid Alkhalifa, President of the OPEC Fund for International Development
  • H.E. Mr. Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD)

Discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in infrastructure development, energy transition, digital connectivity, and the water and transport sectors as key drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth under Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development. Senior representatives from Azerbaijan’s ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Economy, State Water Resources Agency, Azerbaijan Railways, Baku Metropolitan, Baku City Executive Power, the State Agency of Azerbaijan Automobile Roads, and the Ministry for Digital Development and Transport (AZCON), presented investment priorities and project proposals for potential ACG support.

The ACG institutions commended Azerbaijan’s progress in sustainable development and reaffirmed their commitment to delivering impact-driven partnerships that advance infrastructure, resilience, and shared prosperity.

The Roundtable concluded with the signing of a Statement of Intent between the Ministry of Economy and ACG member institutions, establishing a framework for joint action to identify, prepare, and finance high-priority infrastructure projects in Azerbaijan. The agreement underscores a shared vision to mobilize development finance, enhance regional connectivity, and accelerate sustainable growth.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Arab Coordination Group (ACG).

About the Arab Coordination Group (ACG):
The Arab Coordination Group (ACG) is a strategic alliance that provides a coordinated response to development finance. Since its establishment in 1975, the ACG has been instrumental in developing economies and communities for a better future, providing more than 13,000 development loans to over 160 countries around the globe. The ACG works across the globe to support developing nations and create a lasting, positive impact. The Arab Coordination Group (ACG) is considered one of the most important and effective development partnerships at the international level. The group actively works to adopt the best global practices in sustainable development work. It also aims to align the efforts of these institutions to achieve convergence and harmonization in the policies governing their financing operations.

The Group comprises 10 national, Arab regional, and international institutions, including the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development,  the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the Arab Gulf Programme for Development, the Arab Monetary Fund, the Islamic Development Bank, the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the OPEC Fund for International Development, the Qatar Fund for Development and the Saudi Fund for Development.

https://TheACG.org/

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Merck Foundation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) together with African First Ladies released “Ray of Hope” children storybook and Animation Film for Cancer Awareness in three languages

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA, Germany, in partnership with African and Asian First Ladies, released a new children’s storybook and its animation film adaptation titled “Ray of Hope” to raise awareness about cancer, with a special focus on early detection, prevention and access to quality cancer care specially in childhood cancer. The storybook and animation film were launched by Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, together with First Ladies of Burundi, Central Africa, The Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Senegal, who are also the Ambassadors of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”, during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting. The MFFLI Committee Meeting was organized as part of the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary, which took place in The Gambia.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Ret.), CEO of Merck Foundation expressed, “I am very proud to release today our new children’s storybook and animation film on cancer awareness, in partnership with my dear sisters, African First Ladies.

While Childhood cancer is one of the most difficult journeys, not only for young patients but also for their families and communities. Yet, with early detection and timely treatment, there is a good chance of recovery and the possibility of a long and healthier future as majority of Pediatric cancer are treatable. Therefore, I made sure that providing scholarships of cancer care for African healthcare providers is a main part of our strategy. Not only this but also to focus on Pediatric oncology training as much as we can.”  

“Our storybook, “Ray of Hope” highlights this objective via sharing the journey of a young girl named Hope, who faces cancer with courage, resilience, and, above all, hope. The story also raises awareness about the importance of having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning signs which you will know about when you read this storybook. These signs should never be ignored, as early detection saves lives,” she added.

Read ‘Ray of Hope’ storybook here:

https://apo-opa.co/495sLpi#

Watch ‘Ray of Hope’ animation film here:

https://apo-opa.co/43eNm6N

Cancer is now a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, with the disease among the three leading causes of premature death.

Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “It is important to note that nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be treated if diagnosed early, and as many as one-third can be prevented by reducing risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, lifestyle-related causes, and more. The story raises awareness about the importance of early detection and having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning signs. “

Dr. Rasha Kelej further shared, “It is important to note that nearly two-thirds of cancer cases can be treated if diagnosed early, and as many as one-third can be prevented by reducing risk factors such as exposure to radiation, certain infections, lifestyle-related causes, and more. The story raises awareness about the importance of early detection and having access to a well-trained cancer care team to recognize early warning signs.”

As a part of their Cancer Access Program, Merck Foundation provided 239 scholarships for healthcare providers from 35 countries as per the following;

Merck Foundation is establishing Multidisciplinary Oncology Care teams in many African countries by providing scholarships of One year clinical training in most of oncology sub- specialties such as; Medical Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Pediatrics Oncology, Gynecology Oncology, Breast Oncology, Haemato-Oncology, Orthopedic Oncology, Palliative Care, Pathology Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Research in Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Genital Urinary oncology, Advanced Cytopathology Training, Interventional Radiology, Radiation Technician, Laboratory Technician, Oncology Nursing.

Moreover, Merck Foundation provides one year and two year Post Graduate Diploma and Master Degree of Cancer and Clinical Oncology, Medical Oncology and Pain Management from reputed Universities in UK like University of South Wales, University of Buckingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Cardiff University.

“We are proud to be making history in Africa by training the first Oncologists and building the first cancer care teams in several nations, ensuring that patients receive the care they deserve.” Dr. Kelej added.

Merck Foundation has over all provided more than 2400 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

“The storybook and animation film are currently available on our social media and website and will be distributed soon in our partner countries. I believe that education through storytelling and animation is a powerful tool to build a more informed, empathetic, and healthier generation,” added Dr. Kelej.

The storybooks will have a special message from Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, and African and Asian First Ladies for their respective countries. Each storybook will be available in three languages English, French and Portuguese. The copies of these books will be distributed to young readers.

Merck Foundation together with Agrican and Asian first Ladies has previously launched several storybooks and their adapted animation films addressing various health and social issues like ‘More Than a Mother’ to break infertility stigma; ‘Jackline’s Rescue’ to focus on the importance of Girls’ Education and highlight the immoral practices of society including child marriage and the dowry system; ‘Educating Linda’ & ‘Ride into The Future’ to emphasize on the importance of empowering girls through education; ‘Not Who You Are’ to teach boys to love and respect their future wives and eliminate domestic violence and ‘Sugar Free Jude’ for Diabetes Awareness, ‘Mark’s Pressure’ for Hypertension Awareness.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

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

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard! 
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Website: www.Merck-Foundation.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/43b7LK4), X (https://apo-opa.co/43JAsxO), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/43LyuwS), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/43gNhj7), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4oq3lr4) and Flickr ( https://apo-opa.co/4oodVyJ).

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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Phaahla urges G20 to enhance public financing for primary healthcare

Source: Government of South Africa

Health Department Deputy Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, has urged Group of 20 (G20) leaders to address the structural challenges that impede progress in enhancing public financing and developing strong primary healthcare (PHC) systems.

“The financial stresses facing the health sector in many nations serve as a crucial reminder that health is fundamentally an investment in global stability and economic prosperity,” Phaahla said on Thursday morning.

The Deputy Minister was addressing the delegates at the G20 Health Ministerial Meeting held at the Ranch Resort in Polokwane, Limpopo.

Phaahla emphasised that the agenda for the two-day meeting not only includes discussions but also outlines a structured approach toward achieving constructive outcomes.

“Our agenda reflects our determination to tackle complex health threats through cooperation.”

The delegates will hold a session focused on addressing what Phaahla terms as one of humanity’s persistent challenges – Tuberculosis (TB). 

In addition, the leaders will discuss health financing for Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the importance of global partnerships. 

This discussion will include the Global Fund’s Eighth Replenishment, which aims to secure more resources for combating HIV, TB, and malaria.

“The afternoon session on health financing for UHC is perhaps the most critical. It allows us to explore sustainable models, including the role of public investment, and to jointly examine how global economic forces impact national health budgets. 

“We seek common ground in securing the financial bedrock for resilient health systems.”

According to Phaahla, the Health Ministers’ Meeting aims to synthesise and integrate the work of South Africa’s G20 Presidency in Health.

“It begins with a crucial focus on ensuring that scientific progress benefits everyone, with our discussion on making lenacapavir affordable and available for all. 

“This speaks to our G20 value of equity in access to medical breakthroughs.” 

The leaders are also expected to work diligently to create a shared understanding and define strategic directions. 

The gathering will also conclude with the important G20 Joint Finance and Health Ministerial Meeting (JFHMM).

“This joint forum is a powerful signal of our collective recognition that fiscal policy and health outcomes are inextricably linked. Bringing our respective Ministers together will be key to translating our health goals into financially sound, implementable national and global strategies.” 

He encouraged all delegates to embody mutual respect and shared goals that this forum demands.

“The solutions we seek require bold thinking, sustained effort, and unwavering solidarity,” he concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

20th Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI)-Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Annual Islamic Banking and Finance Conference Successfully Concluded

Source: APO

The 20th Annual Islamic Banking and Finance Conference, organized by the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), was successfully concluded on 3 November 2025 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The event commenced with keynote addresses by H.E. Sheikh Ebrahim bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairman, AAOIFI Board of Trustees, and H.E. Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General of the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI). The opening ceremony also included honouring the sponsors and a number of distinguished guests of honour, alongside the official inauguration of the conference exhibition.

The conference attracted remarkable participation from a distinguished lineup of Islamic finance experts, senior Shari’ah scholars, policymakers, and thought leaders. Attendees included high-level representatives from regulatory bodies, leading Islamic financial institution and academic institutions from around the world, further reinforcing the global significance and impact of the conference.

One the first day of the conference, session deliberations explored a series of priority topics, including on the role of Islamic finance in AI-driven business and finance environment. The second day featured in-depth discussions on entrepreneurship development through Shari’ah-compliant MSME financing and creation of integrated value chains and ecosystem. It also addressed Salam and Istisna as tools for economic growth and development.

The conference concluded with emphasis on certain issues and the way forward regarding the main discussion topics and industry implications that have been raised and explored across the two days of the conference. The graduation ceremony of AAOIFI fellows was also held before the conclusion of the conference.

This year’s edition of the conference was supported by a number of key stakeholders including major partnership with Jumhouria Bank (Libya), Kuwait Finance House (KFH), and Saudi National Bank (SNB), alongside golden partners such as Khaleeji Commercial Bank, Al Baraka Banking Group, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Bahrain Islamic Bank (BiSB), Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) and DDCAP Group.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).

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About the Islamic Development Bank Institute:
The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) is the knowledge beacon of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Guided by the principles of Islamic economics and finance, the IsDB Institute leads the development of innovative knowledge-based solutions to support the sustainable economic advancement of IsDB Member Countries and various Muslim communities worldwide. The IsDB Institute enables economic development through pioneering research, human capital development, and knowledge creation, dissemination, and management. The Institute leads initiatives to enable Islamic finance ecosystems, ultimately helping Member Countries achieve their development objectives. More information about the IsDB Institute is available on https://IsDBInstitute.org/

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First National Bank (FNB) and WomenIN Festival 2025 Join Forces to Back Bold, Inclusive Growth for Women across South Africa

Source: APO

First National Bank (FNB) has announced its partnership with WomenIN Festival 2025 (www.WeAreWomenIn.com), as a lead empowerment partner for the iconic event that brings together women from all walks of life for a phenomenal anticipated two days of celebrating women with purpose.

Taking place on 13–14 November at Cape Town’s Newlands Cricket Ground, the Festival brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, creatives, and community builders under the banner: “Limitless: No Labels, No Limits, No Apologies.” For FNB, the partnership isn’t just about presence—it’s about purpose. “As a financial institution, we’re intentional about supporting women in each and every role they play—business owners, leaders, caregivers, and changemakers,” says Nicole Sykes, Head of Women in Business at FNB. “Partnering with the WomenIN Festival 2025 allows us to show up in a way that’s visible, grounded, and future-focused.”

FNB’s decision to align with WomenIN stems from a shared belief – empowering women unlocks broader social and economic impact.

Both organisations are committed to building systems and  providing tools that enable women not just to participate—but to lead, grow, and thrive. “WomenIN is more than a festival. It’s a platform for transformation,” Sykes says. “It encapsulates and mirrors our values around access, equity, and building something bigger than ourselves.”

The collaboration includes a range of initiatives designed to create real, tangible value for women. These include financial wellness sessions focused on money management and wealth-building, dynamic leadership roundtables bringing together trailblazers from across sectors through FNB’s Nav Marketplace and the WomenIN platform.

FNB will also highlight real, authentic stories—like women-led businesses that have grown through its enterprise development programmes—putting a face to the kind of change and impact it wants to scale. The WomenIN 2025 Festival is one aspect of our broader vision: “We’re not just showing up for the two days. We want to create ongoing pathways for women to connect, lead, and build lasting financial independence,” says Sykes. “Our vision is long-term. It’s legacy-focused.”

According to Sykes, it’s a mix of reach, track record, and a deep commitment to being more than just a financial institution. “We’ve built platforms, resources, and support systems tailored specifically for women in business. We’re not new to this. This partnership just takes it further.”

Nazlee Fredericks-Maharaj, founder of WomenIN, sees the collaboration as a catalyst. “This is bigger than an event or a campaign. It’s a movement, a call to action,” she says. “Together with FNB, we’re creating space for women to dream bigger, grow stronger, and connect in ways that have real impact—building not just confidence and soft skills, but also financial literacy and practical hard skills that empower women to succeed personally and professionally.”

Women entrepreneurs, professionals, and supporters can take part by attending WomenIN Festival 2025 and FNB-hosted sessions, joining FNB’s digital channels for ongoing educational programmes and initiatives tailored to Women in Business, designed to support growth at every stage.

Women across industries and life stages are encouraged to show up, speak out, and step into spaces built for real change.

“This is more than a partnership, it’s a movement. We invite every woman to step into her power, connect, and grow with us. We’re here to walk the journey with women, whether you’re building a business, leading a team, supporting your family and social circles or shaping your future. FNB is your partner in progress,”  emphasises Nicole Sykes, Head of Women in Business at FNB.

Join the Movement

The WomenIN Festival is more than an event—it’s a holistic movement for women who are ready to step into their power, speak truth to systems, and create a future defined by collaboration, sisterhood, and impact.

Download the Full Programme:
WiN Festival 2025 Programme (PDF) (https://apo-opa.co/3WJKJ9o)

Registration for the Festival:
Register Here (https://apo-opa.co/47s0ubl)

Partnership and Sponsorship for the Festival:
Submit Interest (https://apo-opa.co/4hIpEpo)

Purchase Tickets:
Buy Tickets (https://apo-opa.co/4hIzCXP)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

For press & media enquiries or interviews please contact: 
Tishala Communications
Elize Engle 
pr1@tishalacommunications.com 
063 574 5249

About WomenIN (WiN):
WomenIN (WiN) (www.WeAreWomenIn.com) is a dynamic women’s empowerment portfolio within the VUKA Group, dedicated to inspiring, supporting, and uplifting women from all walks of life. WiN creates platforms for connection, collaboration, and capacity-building across sectors including mining, mobility, energy, gaming, green economy, customer experience, and more. Through in-person events, masterclasses, wellness activations, and networking initiatives, WiN fosters leadership, amplifies voices, and drives lasting impact.
For more information, visit www.WeAreWomenIn.com

About VUKA Group:
VUKA Group
brings people and organisations together to connect through platforms that drive growth and transformation across Africa’s industries. With over 20 years of experience on the continent, VUKA delivers sector-leading platforms across Energy, Mining, Mobility, Retail, and Women Empowerment.

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South Africa and Lesotho to launch joint time release study report

Source: Government of South Africa

Thursday, November 6, 2025

The Border Management Authority (BMA) Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato, will today join the Revenue Service Lesotho for the launch of Joint end-to-end Time Release Study report between Lesotho and South Africa.

“The launch ceremony marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation, supported by World Customs Organisation Trade Facilitation Programme, a first joint end-to-end Time Release Study between South Africa and Lesotho,” the Border Management Authority said in a statement.

The ceremony reflects the two countries’ commitment to the World Trade Organisation Trade Facilitation Agreement and to drive data-led border management reforms in the Southern African Customs Union region.

The Time Release Study is a tool and platform to reflect developments in the trade environment and on opportunities for Customs Administration and Other Government Agencies to improve cross-border processes and procedures. 

It serves as a key analytical tool designed by the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to measure the time required to release and clear goods or cargo from the time of arrival at a port until they are released. – SAnews.gov.za

Two suspects in AKA murder case to be extradited to South Africa

Source: Government of South Africa

Two men accused of the murder of South African musician, Kiernan “AKA” Forbes and his friend, Tebello “TIBZ” Motsoane, are expected to be extradited to South Africa on 11 November 2025.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mmamoloko Kubayi has received the extradition order from the Kingdom of Eswatini where double murder accused Siyabonga Gezani Ndimande and Malusi Dave Ndimande are being held.

The brothers, who were arrested in Mbabane, have reportedly abandoned their appeal of the extradition.

“Consequently, the Acting Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini has granted the extradition order.

“The Department has received confirmation that the pair will be brought back to South Africa on 11 November 2025 to stand trial on charges that include murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition,” the department said.

The brothers are accused of killing Forbes and Motsoane in a brazen attack outside a Durban restaurant in February 2023.

“All logistical arrangements regarding their handover and collection will be coordinated by the South African Police Service through established diplomatic and law enforcement channels,” the department said. 

SAPS received a surrender order 

Meanwhile, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has reported that the Interpol South Africa and Interpol Eswatini are in talks to arrange the handing over of the brothers to the South African authorities.

The National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola confirmed that the department is finalising logistical arrangements to execute the order on Tuesday, 11 November 2025. 

Masemola commended the Eswatini authorities for their cooperation and assistance in apprehending the pair and ultimately ensuring that they are brought back to the country to answer to crimes committed. 

“The SAPS remains confident that it has a water-tight case against the pair, who face 24 charges relating to three cases. These include conspiracy to commit murder, murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of automatic firearms and ammunition, amongst a host of other charges,” the SAPS said in a statement. 

The brothers were arrested in early 2024 at a rented house in Mbabane, Eswatini, following months of coordinated work between SAPS and Interpol.

Forbes and Motsoane were gunned down while outside a restaurant on Florida Road in Durban on 10 February 2023. Five suspects were arrested in South Africa. – SAnews.gov.za