Category: English

Source: APO – Report:

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Today, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi met with Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Martyrs and Victims Honoring Fund, Major General El-Sayed El-Ghaly, and the Fund’s Executive Director, Major General Ahmed Al-Ashaal. The fund honors the martyrs, as well as victims, missing and the injured of military and security operations and terror attacks and their families.

Spokesman for the Presidency, Ambassador Mohamed El-Shennawy, said the President was briefed on the Fund’s annual activity report. The Chairman of the Fund reviewed the executive status of the Fund’s activities, services, and initiatives provided during the fiscal year 2024/2025, in coordination with the relevant state authorities. 

The President commended the services provided by the Fund to its beneficiaries, lauding the efforts of those in charge in collaboration and coordination with the concerned state bodies, which has strengthened the Fund’s ability to respond effectively to the needs of its beneficiaries.

The President approved the “Egypt Is With You” initiative to support the minor children of the martyrs of the Armed Forces and the Civil Police, as well as civilian victims and injured minors benefiting from the Fund for Honoring Martyrs, Victims, Missing Persons, and Injured of War, Terrorist, and Security Operations and Their Families. The initiative is set to begin on January 1, 2026, in coordination with the Central Bank, with the allocated funds for beneficiaries to be invested by Misr Life Insurance Company, so that the due amounts will be disbursed once the minor reaches legal age. 

President El-Sisi also directed the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to grant exemptions and reductions in tuition fees at public, private, and national universities, as well as private higher institutes, for the sons and daughters of martyrs and the injured who benefit from the Fund.

The President also instructed the Ministry of Health and Population to provide free medical treatment for civilian beneficiaries of the Fund, who are not covered by health insurance, in all Ministry of Health hospitals.

President El-Sisi was also briefed on a multitude of the Fund’s initiatives for the families of martyrs and other beneficiaries, implemented in cooperation with Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, and the Ministries of Youth and Sports, Local Development, Religious Endowments (Awqaf), and Communications and Information Technology, to provide a range of services to Fund beneficiaries.

The President approved the inclusion of the martyrs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, those who lost their lives while performing their duties abroad, among the beneficiaries of the Fund.

– on behalf of Presidency of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Source: APO – Report:

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Over 60 participants, including representatives from the Amhara Public Health Institute (APHI), the Amhara Regional Health Bureau (RHB), religious leaders, the World Health Organization and partners, gathered for a two-day workshop to validate the “Minimum Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and Health Requirements for Religious Institutions in the Amhara Region”.

The initiative marks a new phase in Ethiopia’s fight against recurrent cholera outbreaks—combining the influence of faith leaders with public health expertise to protect communities and strengthen outbreak preparedness.

Opening the workshop, Mr Belay Bezabih, Director General of APHI, emphasised the importance of sustained action and collaboration in tackling cholera.

“Over the past two and a half years, we have worked tirelessly to respond to the ongoing cholera outbreak and have saved many lives,” he said. “However, it is now clear that we need a sustainable, long-term solution. Implementing the minimum WASH requirements will not only prevent future outbreaks but also set a strong example for others to follow.”

He added that the standards also offer broader social and economic benefits:

“Effective implementation can safeguard the dignity and well-being of pilgrims and even attract visitors and tourists.”

Religious leaders attending the workshop expressed their commitment to improving hygiene and sanitation at holy sites.

“Even though our country still experiences safe water shortages, these minimum requirements help us strengthen our efforts to improve water and sanitation at religious institutions,” one religious leader said.

They highlighted that cooperation between health workers and faith leaders is vital to protecting worshippers.

“A strong solidarity between religious leaders and public health responders is essential to overcome this challenge and protect our communities from cholera and other diseases,” they noted.

Speaking on behalf of WHO Ethiopia, Dr Innocent Komakech, WHO Hub Coordinator, underlined WHO’s ongoing support for Ethiopia’s cholera elimination efforts.

“This workshop is not just a technical milestone—it is a collective commitment to protect the health, dignity, and spiritual well-being of the millions of pilgrims who visit these sacred sites each year,” he said.

Dr Komakech linked the initiative to the Global Roadmap to End Cholera by 2030, which aims to reduce cholera deaths by 90 per cent and eliminate the disease in up to 20 countries.

“The standards we are validating today are aligned with this global strategy,” he said. “They ensure safe water supply, improved sanitation, and clear roles for all stakeholders.”

He called on all participants to translate the workshop outcomes into action:

“Let this workshop be the turning point, the moment we move from planning to implementation, from commitment to results.”

The validation workshop was informed by lessons in the region. The outbreak, driven by unsafe water and poor sanitation, highlighted critical gaps in preparedness.

In response, health authorities, supported by WHO and its partners, rapidly deployed response teams, distributed water treatment supplies, and engaged religious leaders to advocate for the temporary closure of high-risk sites. Community volunteers were also trained to promote hygiene and safe water practices.

Despite challenges such as insecurity and limited infrastructure, the outbreak response underscored the importance of preparedness, community engagement, and long-term investment in WASH services.

The cholera response and the development of WASH & health standards were supported by key partners, including the Government of Japan, the European Union (ECHO), and the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF). Their financial and technical contributions have strengthened surveillance systems, deployed emergency teams, and expanded access to clean water and sanitation.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to our partners and donors for their invaluable support,” said Dr Komakech.

As the workshop concluded, participants reaffirmed their shared commitment to implement the validated standards across the Amhara Region and beyond. The standards provide a practical, context-specific guide to ensure safe and dignified conditions at religious institutions while preventing cholera and other WASH-related diseases.

“Let this workshop be the turning point; the moment we move from planning to action, from commitment to results.”  Dr Innocent Komakech, WHO Ethiopia.

– on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Ethiopia.

Source: APO – Report:

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On October 26th, the “Chinese Culture in Campus” event organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda was successfully held at Fawe Girls’ School in Kigali. Mr. Zhang Xiaohong, Head of Political Section of the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Zeng Guangyu, Chinese director of the Confucius Institute,Ms. Marie, Principal of Fawe Girls’ School, along with over 800 students participated in the event.

The attending guests noted that China and Rwanda are comprehensive strategic partners, and long-term, trustworthy, reliable friends on the path of modernization. Strengthening cultural exchanges between the two countries will help promote the connection of people’s hearts and advance  bilateral relations to a higher level. Next year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Rwanda and the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchange, bringing new opportunities for cultural exchanges between China and Rwanda. They encouraged the students to learn Chinese language well, and contribute to the friendship between the two countries as good-will ambassadors.

During the event, a ceremony for donation of teaching equipment from the Embassy and an awarding ceremony of the first Chinese Writing Competition were held. Students performed traditional Rwandan dances and Chinese songs, while the Confucius Institute showcased Chinese traditional cultures such as paper-folding, calligraphy, and tea art. The atmosphere was friendly and lively.

– on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Rwanda.

Source: APO – Report:

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On October 25–26, Ambassador Gao Wenqi, along with young diplomats from the Embassy, traced the Liberation Trail in Rwanda’s Eastern & Northern Provinces. Participants include Hon. Wellars Gasamagera, Secretary General of RPF Secretary-General, Hon. Protais Musoni, Senior Advisor to the Secretary General, Hon. Pudence Rubingisa, Governor of the Eastern Province Rubingisa, Hon. Maurice Mugabowagahunde, Governor of the Northern Province, Amb. Robert Masozera, Director General of the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy, as well as other local government officials.

In his remarks, Amb. Gao commended Rwanda’s liberation journey, emphasizing that the Liberation Trail embodies values such as mission, courage, and unity. He described those values as the enduring driving force behind Rwanda’s remarkable achievements over the past 31 years, and a profound source of inspiration for future development.

Amb. Gao also reflected on China’s own historical experience, noting that the Chinese people, having endured colonial hardship, achieved national independence and liberation through arduous struggle and immense sacrifice.  The spirit of the Long March remains a precious legacy of the Chinese nation. China stands ready to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning with Rwanda in party and state governance, working together to achieve prosperity and turning liberation to lasting dignity.

Secretary-General Gasamagera said that the Liberation Trail carries Rwanda’s national memory and spirit. He expressed Rwanda’s willingness to deepen inter-party exchanges and practical cooperation with China, reinforcing the two nations’ friendship and partnership on the path to modernization.

During the visit, the embassy and RPFexchanged on the spirit of the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee and the eight-point decision, held a seminar on preserving revolutionary heritage and strengthening party’s self-reform.The Liberation Trail encompasses a number of significant historical sites in Rwanda’s liberation war from 1990 to 1994.

– on behalf of Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Rwanda.

Source: APO – Report:

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On his personal behalf and on behalf of the people of Seychelles, His Excellency President Dr. Patrick Herminie would like to express his heartfelt condolences following the passing of football legend Mr. Rolly Baker, a true pioneer of Seychellois football.

Mr. Rolly Baker was more than just a footballer; he was a trailblazer who helped lay the foundation for the beautiful game in Seychelles. As a proud member of our nation’s first national team in 1970, he represented Seychelles with great distinction and pride, scoring memorable goals that will forever remain etched in our sporting history.

Beyond his playing career, Mr. Baker continued to enrich our football culture as a commentator and mentor. He was a passionate advocate for technical excellence, ball control, and the artistry of the game. Through his skill, wisdom, and unwavering dedication, he inspired generations of Seychellois footballers and fans alike.

President Herminie extends his deepest sympathies to Mr. Baker’s family, friends, and all those whose lives were touched by his remarkable legacy.

Mr. Rolly Baker’s contribution to football and to national pride will never be forgotten. He will be remembered as one of the greats who helped shape the soul of Seychellois sport.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

Source: APO – Report:

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President Dr. Patrick Herminie has submitted his proposed list of Cabinet Ministers to the National Assembly for approval, following his victory in the October 2025 presidential election.

This submission represents a key step in the formation of the new Government. The National Assembly will now review and deliberate on the proposed nominations in accordance with constitutional procedures.

The final composition of the Cabinet will be officially announced upon completion of the parliamentary approval process

– on behalf of State House Seychelles.

Source: APO – Report:

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The Portfolio Committee on Agriculture successfully began its week-long oversight visit to the Eastern Cape yesterday by visiting farmer production support units, including Ncera Macadamia Nuts Farm in Ncera Village in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and Zanyokhwe Farmer Production Support Unit in Keiskamahoek in the Amahlathi Local Municipality, to assess the state of their operations.

The committee heard that Ncera Macadamia Nuts Farm, which was launched in 2005 by the then Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform for the development of an orchard and bulk water supply, is not operationally and is not meeting the objective for which it was established.

The Chairperson of the committee, Ms Dina Pule, expressed her dismay at the contrast between the positive profile of the project presented to the committee by provincial Department of Agriculture officials and the disappointing appearance of the same project during the committee’s visit. Members of the committee cautioned officials against this sugarcoating of reality.

In contrast, the committee was happy with the state of the Zanyokwe Farmer Production Support Unit at Keiskamahoek. Committee members were satisfied with the management of the project and were convinced that it is reaping positive economic spin-offs for the surrounding community.

The committee heard that between 70-90 farmers formed a cooperative and that capacity building and training takes place at the project, which empowers local farmers in productive farming methods in the Keiskamahoek area.

In welcoming the briefing and the walkabout at the project site, Ms Pule said the Zanyokhwe Farmer Support Unit is an example of the ideal projects the committee hoped to see in the province. She said the committee would like to see thriving farms that deliver food to the people and ensure food security. She said no nation should depend on another country for food.

She called on the provincial Department of Agriculture to form concrete partnerships with well-established private sector entities for financial and other material support to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.

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

Source: APO – Report:

On the outskirts of Addis Ababa, 30-year-old Behailu Seboka, founder of Askema Engineering, manufactures brake pads from discarded slaughterhouse materials. What began as a university project now employs 268 people and serves 6,400 customers across Ethiopia. “With the right support, we can prove that the circular economy is not only good for the environment but also for business,” he says.

Askema Engineering, an exhibitor at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA), exemplifies how African ingenuity—when supported by coordinated policy and investment—can become an industrial and export-ready asset.

Across the continent, companies like Askema are creating a tangible vision of the circular transition, and attendees at the ACEA Annual Meeting heard about various initiatives led by African small and medium-sized businesses committed to this approach.

In Madagascar, the Ministry of the Environment is partnering with local innovators to recycle polyethene sachets into durable thread for Handbags. In Burkina Faso, plastic waste is transformed into paving stones or planks used for school desks and equipment for public spaces.

These projects illustrate the essence of circularity, an economic model that promotes sustainability through the reuse and recycling of materials and resources, and the elimination of waste.

Powering Africa’s development

Every year, more than 10 million young people join the African job market, yet only 3.1 million jobs are created. With the global circular economy market estimated at $546 billion, and with the potential to create 11 million new jobs by 2030, Africa’s embrace of circularity could become a game-changer for employment and inclusive growth.

The African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA) (http://apo-opa.co/4hxm15M), comprising 21 African countries, is leading efforts to embed circular principles into the continent’s development strategies. Its mission: to transform the ecological transition into a lever for development and integration.

The 2025 ACEA Annual Meeting, held in Addis Ababa from 14 to 16 October, provided a key platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and partnership-building. Participants explored how to scale circular models that deliver both environmental and economic dividends.

The meeting was attended by member states and representatives of 19 partner institutions, including the African Union, the European Union, the African Development Bank, the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO) and UN agencies such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

Growing confidence and cooperation

Discussions focused on harmonising standards, financing and industrial policies to overcome fragmentation in Africa’s circular economy ecosystem. Initiatives such as the African Circular Economy Fund (ACEF), a catalytic instrument of the African Development Bank Group, and the African Union’s Continental Circular Economy Action Plan (CEAP), are already driving progress in line with the AU’s Agenda 2063.

“I would like to congratulate the African Circular Economy Alliance and the African Development Bank for their determined commitment to the circular economy,” said Finland’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sinikka Antila. The increasing number of ACEA members illustrates the growing confidence in this shared vision.” Finland is one of the Alliance’s partner countries and a donor to the ACEF (http://apo-opa.co/4oJG57m).

Aubin Ndodjide, Chad’s representative in Ethiopia, also commended the Alliance’s efforts to convert circular economy opportunities into tangible solutions and sustainable jobs for young Africans.

The African Development Bank Group has incorporated circularity into its Ten-Year Strategy 2024–2033, recognising it as a foundation for sustainable prosperity. The Bank Group’s new Four Cardinal Points agenda — expanding access to capital, reforming financial systems, harnessing demographic potential, and investing in resilient infrastructure — reflects the same ethos.

“The circular economy links the Bank Group’s four cardinal points in a single equation: transforming Africa’s resources, ideas and youth into levers of economic power,” said Nathaniel Oluoch Agola, Acting Country Director of the Bank Group in Ethiopia.

– on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

Media contact:
Communication and External Relations Department, 
media@afdb.org