Category: English

Source: APO – Report:

.

Over 40 participants from civil society organizations (CSOs), women’s rights groups, gender advocates, the National Elections Commission (NEC), the Women’s Legislative Caucus, and the Law Reform Commission and the Ministry of Gender and Social Protection have completed a three-day capacity-building workshop aimed at strengthening coordination and advocacy for increased women’s political participation in Liberia.

The training, held from October 8 to 10, was organized by UN Women and UNDP, under the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP), with support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden, and technical support from the UN Electoral Assistance Division (EAD) of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

Over the course of the workshop, participants examined barriers to women’s participation in politics and explored strategies for promoting women’s equal participation in politics. International experts and facilitators led a series of interactive sessions designed to build knowledge and enhance practical advocacy skills, and strengthen coordination among women’s rights groups, youth and disability organizations, and election observers.

Maarten Halff, Senior Political Affairs Officer and Electoral Systems Expert with the UN Electoral Assistance Division in New York, facilitated online sessions on “The Obstacles of Women’s Participation in Liberia: An Analysis of the 2023 Results,” “Quotas in Context: An ABC of Electoral Systems and Quotas,” and “Quotas in the Liberian Context: Options and Implications.”

Rindai Chipfunde-Vava, an international consultant from Zimbabwe, and Zage Filiposki, a UNDP Liberia electoral specialist, facilitated discussions utilizing the Building Resources in Democracy, Governance and Elections (BRIDGE) curriculum and methodology. These included on topics of Women’s Participation in Politics: Targets and Numbers; Sex and Gender Definitions and Equality; Level Playing Field and International Standards of Elections; Advocacy, Campaigning and Lobbying on Women’s Political Empowerment (Negotiation Skills); and Addressing Gender Inequalities through Strategic Planning, Stakeholder Mapping, and Message Delivery Methods.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, Mr. Louis Kuukpen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Programmes, applauded participants for their dedication and underscored that gender equality is a shared responsibility that benefits all of society.

“Gender equality in my mind is not just about political participation. We need gender equality in all forms,” said Mr. Kuukpen. “We are not asking for too much. We are asking that a system which has not been fair, due to cultural, political, and economic reasons, be reset. We are not begging; we are asking that the right thing be done.” 

He called on stakeholders to sustain the momentum generated during the workshop and proposed the establishment of a network or reference group to continue collaboration and advocacy.

“Let’s leave here not closing the door,” he added. “We must keep the energy and continue to push the boundaries. The only way we can achieve sustainable development is by ensuring gender equality at every level.”

Ms. Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Country Representative, commended the level of engagement and partnership displayed by participants and institutions throughout the workshop. She commended the strong collaboration between the, NEC, Women’s Legislative Caucus, Law Reform Commission, Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, UNDP, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, and the media for their shared commitment to advancing women’s political empowerment.

“When I walked in here, I just felt a seriousness, focused energy in the room,” Ms. Lamptey said. “You have been doing serious work, and you were all committed. Liberia has offered the world much and can offer much more when it comes to political representation.”

She highlighted that Liberia remains among the lowest-ranking countries in Africa in terms of women’s political representation, stressing the importance of adopting temporary special measures, such as gender quotas, to bridge the gap.

“Ensuring you all understand and champion this approach is crucial,” she noted. “Let’s hope that by 2029, we will not only have 11% of women in the legislature, but at least 30%, which is the floor.”

Ms. Lamptey also praised civil society organizations for their powerful advocacy during the 2023 elections, which helped place women’s leadership and violence against women in politics high on the national agenda. She encouraged participants to maintain coordination and strengthen joint advocacy going forward.

“Your role is essential to hold policymakers and public institutions to account,” she said. “We are stronger together, and when we are together, everything is possible.”

The workshop concluded with renewed commitment from all partners to sustain collaborative advocacy and promote inclusive electoral reforms that guarantee women’s meaningful participation and representation in decision-making processes. Participants also expressed interest in establishing a CSO coordination or networking platform to sustain collaboration and joint advocacy on women’s political participation. 

The Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP) supports national institutions and processes to promote inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance. The project is managed by UNDP and implemented in partnership with UN Women, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy and the National Elections Commission, with funding support from the European Union, Ireland, and Sweden.

– on behalf of UN Women – Africa.

Source: APO – Report:

.

The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo River Alliance (M23 Movement) signed in Doha on Tuesday an agreement to establish a ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism, facilitated by the State of Qatar, in line with the Doha Declaration of Principles signed on July 19, 2025.

The mechanism will oversee the implementation of the permanent ceasefire, investigate and verify reported violations, and communicate with relevant parties to prevent a resumption of hostilities.

The State of Qatar, the United States of America, and the African Union will participate in this mechanism as observers, enhancing transparency and supporting regional and international efforts aimed at ensuring the success of the peace process in the Great Lakes region. The establishment of the mechanism represents a pivotal step toward enhancing confidence-building and moving forward toward a comprehensive peace agreement between the two parties to the conflict.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs voiced the State of Qatar’s gratitude and appreciation to the African Union, the United States of America, and the Togolese Republic for their constructive contributions to supporting this process.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The State of Qatar.

Source: APO – Report:

The African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference and exhibition will return to Cape Town on October 12-16, 2026, as the premier meeting place for the African energy sector. On the back of a successful edition in 2025, the event will return bigger, bolder and better than before. With a focus on dealmaking, partnerships and strengthened global ties, the event will cement Africa’s position as the energy hub of the future.

AEW: Invest in African Energies 2026 returns at a critical time for the continent’s energy sector. With energy demand set to increase fourfold by 2040, the continent requires ambitious and scalable projects to meet anticipated consumption growth. Concurrently, geopolitical shifts in global markets have highlighted the need for diversified supply chains, and Africa, with its frontier basins and significant resource base, stands as the partner of choice for many nations.

Recent developments across Africa’s oil and gas market underscore its potential as a future global contender. In North Africa, major gas suppliers to the likes of Libya and Egypt are investing heavily in exploration and production with a view to enhance exports and facilitate greater domestic growth. Egypt recently signed three investment agreements worth over $121 million for exploration in the Western Desert, Suez Gulf and North of Sinai while Libya launched a 22-block licensing round in 2025 as part of a 25-year strategy to add eight billion barrels of crude oil to its proven reserves.

Algeria is also making a strong play for foreign investment. The country is planning to invest $60 billion in energy projects by 2029 and is promoting frontier acreage to raise its profile of proven reserves. Through policy reform and a multi-year licensing strategy, the country is increasing the competitiveness of doing business in Algeria. With goals to reach 200 billion cubic meters in gas production over the coming five years, these reforms have paved the way for accelerated growth and revenue generation.  

In Southern Africa, major frontiers such as Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe are pursuing first oil and gas production while established markets such as Angola are ramping-up crude output. Namibia is on track for first oil by 2029 on the back of its Venus and Mopane discoveries; Zimbabwe is advancing the onshore Cabora Bassa gas project; while South Africa is seeking investors to monetize offshore gas resources. Angola strives to sustain output above one million barrels per day (bpd), with a slate of industry reforms enticing companies. In East Africa, Mozambique is pursuing three major LNG projects, with the Coral North FLNG project reaching a final investment decision (FID) in October 2026 and the Rovuma LNG development targeting FID in early 2026. Recent talks have also seen the Mozambique LNG project advancing. Tanzania is also eyeing first LNG production while Uganda’s Kingfisher and Tilenga fields are nearing production.

West and Central Africa continue to cement their position as major regional strongholds. Ambitious production targets reflect this. Nigeria is targeting 2.5 million bpd by 2027, the Republic of Congo is eyeing 500,000 bpd while Gabon is aiming for 220,000 bpd. Senegal and Ivory Coast have recently joined Africa’s group of oil producers, with first oil achieved at the Sangomar and Baleine projects respectively. Regional gas projects have also demonstrated the potential for investing in the region. The Republic of Congo is nearing the start of the second phase of the Congo LNG project while Senegal and Mauritania are striving for full operational capacity at the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project. Amid these developments, regional reforms and licensing rounds have enhanced the region’s appeal as an investment destination.  

Beyond oil and gas, Africa is advancing the development of low-carbon solutions, putting in place mechanisms to attract investment in renewable energy, green hydrogen and broader power projects. With a view to achieve universal access to electricity, countries across the continent are positioning these industries as cornerstones of economic growth and industrialization. From South Africa’s Hydrogen Valley and Coega Green Ammonia project to Mauritania’s vision for 60GW of hybrid solar and wind and 35 GW of green hydrogen to Namibia’s Hyphen Hydrogen and Daures Green Hydrogen developments, Africa is leading in terms of low-carbon fuels. Regional power pools, off-grid solar, hybrid electricity systems and biofuels are also advancing, while major hydropower projects in Ethiopia, the DRC, The Gambia and more offer new avenues for improved energy access. As the world transitions to a low-carbon energy future, Africa has a unique opportunity to leverage its resources and human capital to lead a just and equitable energy transition.

It is within this context that AEW: Invest in African Energies 2026 returns. As the largest event of its kind on the continent, the event is uniquely positioned to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities witnessed across the continent’s energy sector. By shining a spotlight on Africa’s diverse and evolving energy market, the event connects capital to projects and investors to African opportunities.

“With Africa’s oil, gas, and renewable sectors entering a transformative new phase, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2026 will once again serve as the heartbeat of the continent’s energy investment agenda. From licensing rounds and project announcements to renewable launches and cross-border partnerships, Cape Town will be the meeting place where Africa’s energy and development goals converge,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber.

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

Source: APO – Report:

.

A regional seminar on international taxation was held in Accra, Ghana, from September 22nd to 26th 2025, jointly organized by the World Bank’s EMFTX team and the ECOWAS Commission, with support from regional and international partners.

The seminar brought together over 30 participants from ECOWAS Member States and observer countries, including Benin, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Mauritania. Senior officials from Ministries of Finance and Tax Administrations convened to exchange experiences and deepen their understanding of emerging issues in international taxation.

Over the course of 18 sessions, discussions covered a wide range of topics such as the ECOWAS Supplementary Acts on the Elimination of Double Taxation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters, implementation of the Global Minimum Tax (GMT), reform of tax incentives, anti-BEPS measures, transfer pricing, natural resource taxation, and VAT on digital transactions. Participants shared country experiences, highlighting varying levels of progress in adopting international tax standards, while some countries are conducting impact assessments and legislative reviews, others are still in the early stages of implementation.

The seminar highlighted the importance of aligning national tax systems with evolving global norms and strengthening regional cooperation to harmonize policies, enhance compliance and improve revenue collection. Participants emphasized the need for continued technical assistance and capacity building to support domestic policy reforms.

The seminar concluded with a strong call for sustained collaboration among ECOWAS Member States, development partners, and international organizations to strengthen tax systems and promote fair and efficient taxation across the region.

– on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Source: APO – Report:

.

Ethiopia has taken a major step forward in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) by launching a national AI-powered digital X-ray system for TB screening. The launch, held on 18 September 2025 during the Annual Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Other Lung Diseases Review Meeting, was officiated by Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) Ethiopia was recognized and commended for its critical contribution to this national milestone. WHO played a central role in developing the National Implementation Guideline on AI-Powered Digital X-ray for Tuberculosis Screening and in building the capacity of health workers across the country.

To facilitate the national rollout, WHO Ethiopia supported the training of 75 health-care workers, including radiology personnel and program officers, to effectively operate the machines for TB screening and ensure linkage to diagnosis and care.

“Ethiopia is one of the first countries in Africa to adopt and implement this new innovation at such a large scale,” said Dr Dereje Duguma, State Minister of Health. “The country has procured and distributed 225 AI-powered digital X-ray machines to health facilities across all regions to support early TB screening and detection. Strong government commitment and partner collaboration are the backbones of this major milestone in our national efforts to end the TB epidemic.”

Dr Dereje extended his appreciation to WHO Ethiopia, REACH Ethiopia, and other partners for their technical and operational support, which has been instrumental in developing the national guidance and strengthening the capacity of the health workforce.

During the event, WHO Ethiopia received a certificate of recognition from the Ministry of Health for its unwavering support to the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Other Lung Diseases Program and the country’s broader fight against TB.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which most commonly affects the lungs. It spreads through droplet infection. Many people infected with TB may not develop symptoms, but those with active disease often experience a persistent cough, low-grade fever, night sweats, loss of appetite, and significant weight loss. TB is preventable and curable with a standard four- to six-month course of antibiotics.

Ethiopia is among the 30 high-burden countries for TB and TB/HIV. Tuberculosis is one of the top ten causes of death worldwide and the leading infectious killer. According to the WHO Global TB Report 2024, there are an estimated 188,000 (146 per 100,000) incident TB cases in Ethiopia. The current humanitarian context—including conflict, population displacement, and drought—is fueling TB transmission and increasing the risk of drug-resistant TB. An estimated 1.1% of new TB cases and 12% of previously treated cases are drug resistant.

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

Source: APO – Report:

.

On the morning of October 14, 2025, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with Mozambican Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levi, who is in China for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women.

President Xi noted that over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, traditional friendship between China and Mozambique has withstood the test of international vicissitudes and remained rock-solid. China will continue to work with Mozambique to firmly support each other, strengthen strategic coordination, enhance mutually beneficial cooperation, deepen the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, and jointly make the next five decades even more remarkable.

President Xi stressed that China supports Mozambique in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and upholding national solidarity and stability. China is ready to work with Mozambique to strengthen cooperation between governments, political parties and legislatures, and deepen experience sharing on the governance of political parties and states. The two sides should take the implementation of the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Beijing Summit as an opportunity to enhance practical cooperation, and jointly explore new ways of cooperation which highlight the comprehensive and coordinated development of energy and mineral resources and infrastructure. Efforts should be made to accelerate the establishment of the China Cultural Center in Mozambique to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and bring the two peoples closer. China will work with Mozambique to implement the Global Governance Initiative, oppose unilateralism and hegemonism, and uphold the common interests of the two countries and the Global South.

Prime Minister Levi applauded that President Xi Jinping’s profound and impactful speech at the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women. She said that Mozambique is ready to work with China to deliver on the outcomes of the Meeting and advance the global cause of women. China is a trusted and good partner of Mozambique. The two countries have always supported each other and maintained close cooperation over the past 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties. Mozambique is firmly committed to the one-China principle, and wishes to learn from China’s development experience, enhance cooperation with China in economy and trade, energy, mining, science and technology, education and other fields, to boost its own economic and social development and bring more benefits to its people. Mozambique supports the four major Global Initiatives proposed by China and appreciates that China has actively contributed to global prosperity and stability through its own development. Mozambique will strengthen multilateral cooperation with China to make the global governance system more just and equitable.

Wang Yi was present at the meeting.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Source: APO – Report:

.

On the morning of October 14, 2025, President Xi Jinping met at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing with Ghanaian President John Mahama, who is in China for the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women.

President Xi noted that this year marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Ghana. The China-Ghana friendship was jointly fostered by the older generation of leaders of the two countries and has been growing from strength to strength. China firmly supports Ghana in pursuing a path toward modernization suited to its national conditions, and is ready to work with Ghana to take cooperation in various fields to a higher level and make greater contributions to jointly building the all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future for the new era. 

President Xi stressed that China always follows the principle of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith, and takes the right approach to friendship and interests in carrying out cooperation with Africa. China will work with Ghana to strengthen political mutual trust and support each other on issues involving each other’s core interests and major concerns. The two sides should jointly implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, explore diversified cooperation models, and enhance cooperation in such fields as mining, energy, infrastructure, agriculture and fishing. Such efforts will help Ghana turn its strengths in resources into growth momentum, balance resource development and environmental protection, and drive high-quality development of cooperation between the two countries. The two sides should jointly implement the Global Governance Initiative and work for a more just and equitable global governance system. The two sides reached consensus in principle on the early harvest arrangements of the agreement on economic partnership for shared development. It is hoped that Ghana can benefit from the zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines China gave to African countries that have diplomatic relations as early as possible.

President Mahama extended warm congratulations to China on its successful convening of the Global Leaders’ Meeting on Women. He noted that the Meeting is highly significant and demonstrates China’s leadership in championing the global cause of women. He said that Ghana-China relations are friendly and historic, and expressed appreciation to China for the strong support and assistance to Ghana through the FOCAC and Belt and Road cooperation. Ghana firmly abides by the one-China policy and is committed to deepening relations with China. He said that Ghana looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in trade, digital economy, infrastructure, energy, mining, and people-to-people exchanges, to take bilateral relations to a whole new level. Ghana firmly supports multilateralism and will work closer with China and other like-minded countries to enhance coordination on multilateral platforms, act on the Global Governance Initiative, and uphold international fairness and justice.

Wang Yi was present at the meeting.

– on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China.

Source: APO – Report:

.

H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, emphasized that H.E. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, had a decisive and clear vision since October 2023 regarding the war on Gaza, based on the necessity of achieving peace and a complete commitment to the rights of the Palestinian people. This came during an interview with the global Bloomberg network.

Regarding the “Sharm El Sheikh Summit for Peace”, Dr. Al-Mashat said: “It is a very important day, not just for the region but for the entire world. We know that the Palestinian people have suffered for two years, so reaching a resolution and laying the foundations for peace will be essential for the future of the region. The world has also been affected by the economic repercussions of what happened in the Suez Canal, as it is a vital route for international trade. Therefore, we look forward to a positive day where leaders from all over the world will gather.”

Regarding the economic impact of the war on the Gaza Strip, the Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation noted that reaching a sustainable settlement that achieves calm in the region will ensure the resumption of ship traffic in the Suez Canal, which will be very positive for both Egypt and the cost of global trade.

Dr. Al-Mashat highlighted that Egypt has dealt flexibly with the decrease in Suez Canal traffic due to regional tensions by starting to implement necessary economic reforms since March 2024, despite the challenges resulting from the conflict in the region. These reforms included fiscal consolidation, monetary policy, a flexible exchange rate, and setting a ceiling for public investments. She added that these reforms contributed to achieving growth in the GDP, reaching 4.4% by the end of June, and 5% during the last quarter.

Dr. Al-Mashat pointed out that this growth is driven by an economic model based on manufacturing, increased production, and focusing on tradable sectors. “If we look at the structure of growth in Egypt, we find that its sources come from increased manufacturing activity, benefiting from the reforms implemented in March 2024. We are still continuing to implement an ambitious structural reform program aimed at increasing competitiveness, fostering private sector participation, and capitalizing on new investments in the country.”

Regarding the future of the Egyptian economy, Dr. Al-Mashat reaffirmed that Egypt launched “Egypt’s Narrative for Economic Development” to identify priority sectors for attracting foreign investments, benefiting from the strong infrastructure established over the past years that supports industry and export. The Minister expected 2026 to be a turning point for the Egyptian economy, with actual contributions from real economy sectors, primarily industry, and continued growth in tourism, communications, and remittances from Egyptians abroad.

Dr. Al-Mashat added that “we have witnessed strong investment flows recently, especially in the Suez Canal Economic Zone, through injecting new investments or establishing joint projects, which represents favorable opportunities for the Egyptian economy to increase production, exports, and accelerate the pace of growth.”

Dr. Al-Mashat also mentioned the Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. She outlined that Egypt is linked to a program with the Fund and fruitful partnerships with the European Union and the World Bank to enhance sources of financing that support our ambitious structural reform program, adding that “we will address the ongoing reforms during the meetings.”

Dr. Al-Mashat indicated that the credit rating upgrade by Standard & Poor’s global agency is proof that these reforms are moving in the right direction. “As stated in their report, there are great opportunities for growth if we continue to implement these reforms,” she added. “We are committed to them, and we are working to open the economy further, increase competition, and overcome the challenges we faced during the past years. All of this is happening despite the difficult geopolitical landscape in the region, but we hope that things will move in a positive direction after yesterday’s historic summit in Sharm El Sheikh, which will positively reflect on the Egyptian economy and boost gains and returns for investors in Egypt”.

– on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.