Category: English

Posted on

Qatar Stresses Importance of Continuing to Strengthen International Solidarity to Address Root Causes of Displacement, Asylum

Source: Government of Qatar

Geneva, October 8 , 2025

The State of Qatar has stressed the importance of continuing to strengthen international solidarity to address the root causes of displacement and asylum, provide sufficient resources to meet urgent humanitarian needs, support refugee-hosting countries, and work to find durable and sustainable solutions for refugees.

The State of Qatar emphasized that achieving peace and ending conflicts are the best way to end the suffering of millions of displaced persons and refugees around the world.

This came in a statement by the State of Qatar, delivered Wednesday by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar in Geneva Dr. Hind bint Abdulrahman Al Muftah, during her participation in the (76) session of the Executive Committee of the Programme of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, as part of the general debate held in Geneva.

Her Excellency expressed the State of Qatar’s deep appreciation for the great efforts made by HE Filippo Grandi during his leadership of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) over the past ten years, and his distinguished contributions to enhancing refugee protection and coordinating international humanitarian action, wishing him every success in his future endeavors.

Her Excellency stressed that the figures issued by the UNHCR reflect a disturbing reality, with the number of forcibly displaced people exceeding 122 million, including more than 42 million refugees. This comes at a time when the Commission and the humanitarian community are facing a severe funding gap that threatens the continuity of essential life-saving programs.

Her Excellency strongly condemned the ongoing aggression, crimes of genocide, starvation, and forced displacement perpetrated by the Israeli occupation forces against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip.

She called on the international community to shoulder its responsibilities and take urgent measures to compel the occupying authorities to immediately halt their aggression, ensure full access to humanitarian aid, and enable the return of all Palestinians to their areas of origin.

She emphasized that the only way to achieve lasting peace and stability in the Middle East is to end the Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories, establish an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and find a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian refugee issue.

Her Excellency also called for increased support for UNRWA to enable it to fulfill its mandate towards more than 5.9 million Palestinian refugees, and to reject any attempts to reduce its role or end its mandate, as this would undermine the rights of Palestinian refugees and undermine their just cause.

Her Excellency affirmed the State of Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with UNHCR, noting the holding of the first high-level strategic dialogue between the two sides last May, with the aim of enhancing cooperation to address the challenges of asylum and forced displacement globally.

She noted that this dialogue resulted in the signing of three agreements: the first to provide $8 million to support the UNHCR’s budget for 2025-2026; the second, worth $3 million, to support the UNHCR’s health program in Jordan, enabling Syrian refugees to access healthcare; and the third, to provide cash assistance to approximately 2,500 of the most vulnerable people in Yemen.

She also said that the total contributions provided by the State of Qatar and Qatari entities to UNHCR since 2010 amounted to approximately $423 million, covering various sectors, most notably education, health, relief, and development.

Her Excellency highlighted Qatar’s effective contribution to supporting refugees and displaced persons and alleviating their suffering around the world without discrimination, in addition to its diplomatic and humanitarian mediation efforts aimed at reducing conflicts and promoting peace.

She said that the State of Qatar, through the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), signed a $5 million agreement with UNHCR last September to rehabilitate social infrastructure in Ukraine. Qatar also continues its efforts to reunite Ukrainian and Russian children with their families, with 107 children reunited with their families since the start of Qatari mediation.

Her Excellency also noted the success of Qatari mediation last July in the signing of the Doha Declaration of Principles between the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Congo River Alliance/March 23 Movement, an important step toward achieving peace and security and the safe and dignified return of refugees and displaced persons to their homes.

She noted the opening of the Al Amal Residential City in northern Syria last January to shelter those affected by the crisis, in partnership between Qatar Charity and the Turkish Humanitarian Relief Foundation, providing decent housing for hundreds of displaced families returning to Syria.

Her Excellency noted that in Sudan, the State of Qatar, through the Qatar Fund for Development, launched a humanitarian initiative in the Wadai region of eastern Chad to assist approximately 2,000 refugee families affected by the war.

In October 2024, it signed a $2 million agreement with the UNHCR to provide essential assistance in South Sudan to approximately 240,000 people fleeing the conflict in Sudan.

HE the Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar in Geneva reiterated Qatar’s unwavering commitment to shared humanitarian values, its support for multilateral humanitarian action, and the strengthening of partnerships that preserve human dignity, provide protection, and support sustainable solutions for refugees and displaced persons worldwide.

Posted on

Gauteng detectives secure over 1 200 convictions in three months

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng detectives secure over 1 200 convictions in three months

Detectives in the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng have secured 1 208 convictions between 1 July and 30 September 2025, marking a substantial step forward in the province’s ongoing fight against crime. 

According to the SAPS, a total of 178 suspects, aged between 20 and 62, were sentenced to imprisonment for various serious crimes.

“The Convictions included house robbery, kidnapping, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, shoplifting, malicious damage to property, assault, house breaking and theft, common robbery, assault GBH, illegal immigrant theft, rape, possession of suspected stolen property and culpable homicide,” the SAPS said in a statement.

The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) units also recorded notable successes, securing 44 life sentences and a combined 637 years of imprisonment against 68 accused for crimes against women and children during the three months period.

The High Court on 8 September 2025, sentenced two accused aged 25 years, for their roles in terrorizing communities in Germiston, Elsburg, Vosloorus and Zonkizizwe. 

“The suspects were sentenced for house robbery, rape, kidnapping, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The accused were both sentenced to13 life imprisonments for rape, 150 years for robbery and housebreaking (10 counts of 15 years), 18 years for kidnapping (6 counts of 3 years), 5 years for possession of an unlicensed firearm, and 3 years for possession of ammunition,” the SAPS said.

Some of the sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective 13 life sentences and 165 years imprisonment for each accused.

In a separate case, a 36-year-old man was sentenced to two life terms for two counts of murder, three years for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), and eight years for attempted robbery with aggravating circumstances. 

The sentences will run concurrently, and the offender was declared unfit to possess a firearm. 

He was found guilty on 11 August 2025 by the Pretoria High Court following a case reported at SAPS Lyttelton on 28 January 2025. 

The Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, has commended the detectives for their dedication and tireless efforts in securing these convictions. 

“This achievement underscores the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community in driving crime reduction initiatives forward,” Mthombeni said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

577 views

Posted on

KFC’s secret recipe is out – the one the world really needs

Source: APO – Report:

KFC Africa’s (http://KFC.co.za) big secret is out, and no, it’s not the blend of 11 herbs and spices, it’s a recipe of hope to end child hunger – open-sourced globally for sharing and scaling in honour of World Food Day.

Unveiled yesterday (7 October) at The Biggest Hunger Hack in Johannesburg, KFC Africa has, for the first time ever, open-sourced the blueprint for Add Hope, its 16-year-old initiative that is also South Africa’s largest non-governmental feeding programme.

What began as a hackathon will now have global reach. During the past week, 60 of the country’s smartest young minds, in partnership with the University of Johannesburg, have been supercharging the Add Hope recipe to make it even more impactful.

KFC Africa Head of Corporate Affairs Andra Nel says Gen Z in Africa is key to ending hunger. “They truly get it because they’ve lived or witnessed it. They also understand technology, community and systems thinking better than most. So we gave them our blueprint and challenged them to turn it into fresh solutions for even more hope.”

Nel says the Add Hope team was blown away by the ideas that emerged from the hackathon. “These ideas and the blueprint will make it easier for others to explore the recipe, share it and scale it. That’s a great way to mark World Food Day on 16 October and honour its theme of global collaboration.”

Biggest Hunger Hack

Add Hope’s success is itself rooted in the power of collaboration, starting with KFC customers adding R2 donations to KFC’s own significant contribution, and ending with meals being prepared for vulnerable children at thousands of feeding centres nationwide. A R1 billion milestone was reached last year, with over R600 million donated by the public and R400 million by KFC.

 “We know collaboration is the only way to scale this fight even further and address the great need that still exists, which is why we invited leaders from business, government and civil society to join us at The Biggest Hunger Hack,” says Nel.

 “We’re hoping other organisations will heed our call to collaborate with us to scale what already works. Just off this campaign, new partnerships with companies like McCormick, Digistics, Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa, Foodserv, Tiger Brands, CBH and Nature’s Garden,  to name a few, will give us a flying start.”

The Biggest Hunger Hack was hosted at the University of Johannesburg, and Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi said UJ was thrilled to partner with KFC on an initiative in which young people used their Fourth Industrial Revolution expertise to tackle child hunger.

“This collaboration is a prime example of how young innovators, equipped at the university, can develop practical, scalable solutions for societal impact. We look forward to seeing the tangible difference their ideas will make in alleviating hunger through innovation.”

Poverty to blame

Panellists at The Biggest Hunger Hack outlined the scale of the child hunger challenge and said a society-wide approach was the best option for a sustainable solution.

Dr Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of Gift of the Givers, said. “When you go to a disaster site, the first thing people ask for is food. That’s when you realise that that hunger is not two hours old, it’s been there for days.”

South Africa is one of 20 countries responsible for 65% of severe poverty worldwide, according to Siya Leshabane of UN Women. “Hungry children struggle to focus and retain information. Poor nutrition leads to fatigue and children struggle to take themselves out of that whirlwind.”

Luvuyo Sandi, SED business and fund manager, Kagiso Trust, said hunger is not an isolated problem. “The reason this child is hungry has to do with household income issues, and beyond that the reason is unemployment or being unemployable.”

Dr Marc Aguirre, country director at HOPE worldwide, described child hunger as a national development crisis. “We know it’s impacting our GDP by about 10%. Stunting is costing this country billions of rands, so we need to look at addressing child hunger as an investment in the future.”

Gen Z solution

Nel says ideas from the hackathon teams will be tested over the next few months, and a collaborative business-led proposal will be prepared for the National Convention early in 2026 – a Gen Z solution to child hunger from KFC Africa. Potential seed funding of up to
R1 million could be allocated to the development of the winning solution.

“This is the first time a major South African corporation has open-sourced a successful social impact model, potentially revolutionising how businesses tackle social challenges,” she says.

“We’re not just feeding children any more, we’re feeding a movement with the potential to end child hunger in countries forever. This is the secret recipe the world really needs.”

  • Read more on the Add Hope recipe at https://AddHope.KFC.co.za/

– on behalf of KFC Africa.

#KFCAddHope #AddHopeHackathon

About KFC Africa:
KFC has been part of Africa’s story since 1971, when the first restaurant opened in Johannesburg. Today, with more than 1,400 restaurants across 22 sub-Saharan countries, it stands as the continent’s leading quick service restaurant brand and home of the Original Recipe® fried chicken that millions love. 

At KFC Africa, we feed more than hunger, we feed potential. Every meal served is part of a bigger purpose: creating a seat at the table for everyone and ensuring that potential isn’t just seen, it’s nurtured. That commitment comes to life through initiatives that make a measurable difference. Our Streetwise Academy, backed by Services SETA accreditation, equips team members with skills to thrive across frontline leadership, HR and operations, achieving a 75% promotion and retention rate that proves the power of investing in people. Our Add Hope programme delivers over 30 million meals to vulnerable children each year, while Mini Cricket, South Africa’s largest grassroots sports programme, reaches more than 120,000 young players guided by 13,000 coaches. Beyond food, initiatives such as the Ikusasa Lethu scholarships and youth empowerment programmes across Africa open pathways to education, livelihoods, and brighter futures.

With over 40,000 team members powering our business, KFC Africa is proud to be an employer of choice, cultivating careers, fairness, and integrity while serving millions daily. Because when individuals rise, families strengthen. Communities grow. Nations transform. That’s the undeniable impact we are proud to serve.

About KFC Add Hope:
Add Hope isn’t just spare change, it’s real change. Every time you add just R2 to your KFC meal, you’re helping a child in South Africa get the nutritious food they need to learn, grow, and thrive. Here’s the kicker: KFC has donated over R400M in the last 16 years.  Since 2009, together we’ve raised over R1.2 billion, serving up more than 30 million meals every year through thousands of feeding centres and non-profits. That’s millions of kids with the energy to show up at school, focus, play, and dream bigger.

But Add Hope doesn’t stop at full stomachs. It opens doors. It gives kids the chance to play through Mini Cricket, offers high school scholarships through Ikusasa Lethu, and levels up futures with the Streetwise Academy. Add Hope is one of South Africa’s most impactful social purpose brands. Because this isn’t just about food. It’s about feeding potential.  More at www.AddHope.co.za.

Media files

.

Posted on

Qatar Strongly Condemns Israeli National Security Minister and Settlers Storming the Courtyard of Al-Aqsa Mosque

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha – October 8, 2025

The State of Qatar strongly condemns the storming of the courtyard of Al-Aqsa Mosque compound by the Israeli National Security Minister and settlers, considering it a flagrant violation of international law and a provocation to the feelings of Muslims around the world.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warns against the continuation of such violations against the Palestinian people and their Islamic and Christian holy sites, and the resulting escalation of violence in the region. It also stresses the need for the international community to fulfill its moral and legal responsibilities toward Jerusalem and its holy sites.

The Ministry reiterates the State of Qatar’s firm position on the just Palestinian cause and the legitimate rights of the brotherly Palestinian people, including their full right to practice religious rituals without restrictions and to establish an independent state on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Posted on

Forum Invest in Senegal 2025 (Fii Senegal 2025): President Bassirou Diomaye Faye calls for investment in a transforming Senegal

Source: APO

“Senegal offers a growing market within the framework of the Continental Free Trade Area, supported by a legal environment undergoing modernization and reform. We are ready to welcome you and facilitate your establishment and success. Come seize opportunities in high-potential strategic sectors and forge fruitful, mutually beneficial partnerships,” stated His Excellency President Bassirou Diomaye Faye at the opening of Forum Invest in Senegal 2025 (Fii Senegal 2025) (https://FiiSenegal.sn/). 

With these words, the Head of State set the tone for a forward-looking forum, symbolizing a Senegal firmly committed to the path of economic transformation, stability, and trust. The President reiterated the four pillars of Vision Senegal 2050—economic diversification, regional development, strengthened governance, and investment in human capital—as the guiding framework for the country’s long-term development.

Following this, Bakary Séga Bathily, Director General of APIX, welcomed this direction, stating: “Fii Senegal 2025 is not just another forum. It is the face of a Senegal proudly asserting its ambition to become a hub of stability, trust, and shared prosperity—open to Africa and to the world.”

Over the course of two days, the forum—centered around the theme “Connecting Opportunities, Building the Future”—welcomes policymakers, investors, and global leaders in Dakar for high-level dialogue focused on value creation, local transformation, and sustainable financing.

The first day was highlighted by a Presidential Panel bringing together African and international leaders, along with thematic sessions on energy, strategic resources, health, agriculture, and Senegal’s industrial hubs.

Closing the inaugural session, the Director General of APIX reaffirmed the momentum of trust: “As Fii Senegal 2025 unfolds, it is set to reaffirm Senegal’s role as a central player in Africa’s economic transformation and a trusted destination for global investors. The time to invest is now. The place to transform is here. The way to succeed is together.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APIX Senegal S.A.

Media Contact:
Johnson Mbengue
Phone Number : +221 77 529 82 33
Email : jmbengue@apix.sn

Media files

.

Posted on

Qatar, Paraguay Hold Round of Political Consultations

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, October 08, 2025

The third round of political consultation between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar and the Republic of Paraguay was held Wednesday in Doha.

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi chaired Qatar’s side, while HE Minister of Foreign Affairs Ruben Ramirez chaired Paraguay’s side.

The two sides discussed cooperation relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them. 

Posted on

Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 to be Co-Chaired by The Gambia First Lady and Merck Foundation Chief Executive Office (CEO) and Inaugurated by the President of The Gambia

Source: APO

  • The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary will be officially inaugurated by The President of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mr. ADAMA BARROW, and attended by African First Ladies.  
  • The conference is being co-chaired by The First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, H.E. Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW & Merck Foundation CEO, Dr. Rasha Kelej and attended by African First Ladies. 
  • The First Ladies of Africa to be the Guests of Honor at the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 conducted in the Gambia. 
  • More than 6,000 healthcare providers, policymakers and media from over 70 countries will benefit from the Luminary.  
  • Watch the Merck Foundation Partnership Journey with The First Lady of The Gambia since 2017, here: https://apo-opa.co/48qOSWZ

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, will conduct the 12th Edition of their annual conference, “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary”, in partnership with the Government of The Gambia in Banjul, The Gambia.  

Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and Co-Chairperson of the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary shared, “I am excited to announce the 12th Edition of our annual conference together with my dear sister, Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, The First Lady of Gambia and Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother, in partnership with Government of The Gambia. I am pleased to share that the conference will be officially inaugurated by H.E. Mr. ADAMA BARROW, The President of the Republic of The Gambia, together with Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees.  

I am also looking forward to welcome First Ladies of Africa, also the Ambassadors of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother who will be joining us as the Guests of Honor and Keynote Speakers. Together, we will share our experiences and discuss the impact of our programs in building healthcare and media capacity, while raising awareness on a wide range of critical social and health issues.” 

Mrs. FATOUMATTA BAH-BARROW, First Lady of The Gambia, Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother and Co-Chairperson of the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary shared “We are delighted to host the 12th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary in The Gambia this year. I am especially excited that the conference will be inaugurated by His Excellency, the President of The Gambia. I look forward to welcoming my dear sisters, The First Ladies of Africa, Ministers, Healthcare Experts, Media Representatives, and Delegates from over 52 countries, together with our long-term partners Merck Foundation. 

Merck Foundation has provided 94 scholarships to our local Gambian doctors in more than 30 underserved specialties, helping us transform our public healthcare landscape. Many of them are becoming first specialists in their fields. We are making history together with Merck Foundation in The Gambia, I am very proud of this great achievement.” 

Watch the Merck Foundation Partnership Journey with The First Lady of The Gambia since 2017, here: https://apo-opa.co/48qOSWZ​ 

The conference will be held in a hybrid format, featuring both physical and online participation of more than 6,000 healthcare providers, policymakers, academia, researchers, and media representatives from over 70 countries across Africa, Asia, and beyond. Of these, over 300 participants will attend in person. 

“Since 2012, we have made a significant progress, I am happy to share that we have provided more than 2400 scholarships for young doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties such as Oncology & Cancer care, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Cardiovascular, Fertility Care, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, Internal Medicine, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Critical Care, Pediatric Emergency, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Clinical Psychiatry, Urology, Ophthalmology, General Surgery, Trauma & Orthopedic, Dermatology, Neonatal Care, Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Advanced Surgical Practice, Neuroimaging for Research and more. Many of them are becoming the first specialists in their countries, and we are proud of this achievement”, added Dr. Kelej. 

On the first day of the conference, the Plenary Session of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary 2025 will take place, featuring keynote speeches of African First Ladies. 

Also, three key parallel medical, scientific and community awareness sessions will be held. Medical and scientific session will cover topics such as diabetes and hypertension, and medical capacity building in specialties like respiratory care, acute care, emergency pediatric and neonatal care, and more.  

And, community awareness session, Merck Foundation Health Media Training, will be conducted for journalists from The Gambia and other African countries. This session will emphasize the critical role of the media in influencing communities and driving cultural change, with regards to a wide range of social and health issues like Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girls’ Education, Stopping GBV, Ending Child Marriage & FGM, Empowering Women, Diabetes and Hypertension Awareness.  

Countries participating physically in the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary will include: 

Ghana, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritania, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Uganda 

Countries participating virtually in the 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary will include: 

Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central Africa Republic, Cambodia, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Guinea – Bissau, Guinea – Conakry, Indonesia, Lesotho, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Myanmar, Namibia, Nepal, Niger, Peru, Philippines, Russia, Somalia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Thailand, The Gambia, Togo, Tunisia, U.A.E, UK, US, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe and more.  

The 12th Edition of Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary will be streamed live on the social media channels of Merck Foundation and Dr. Rasha Kelej. 

Summarizing Merck Foundation’s initiatives and impact: 

Merck Foundation is transforming the Patient care landscape and making history together with their partners in Africa, Asia, and beyond, through: 

  • 2400+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in 42 critical and underserved medical specialties.  

Merck Foundation is also creating a culture shift and breaking the silence about a wide range of social and health issues in Africa and underserved communities through: 

  • 3700+ Media Persons from more than 35 countries trained to better raise awareness about different social and health issues 
  • 8 Different Awards launched annually for best media coverage, fashion designers, films, and songs 
  • Around 30 songs to address health and social issues, by local singers across Africa 
  • 8 Children’s Storybooks in three languages – English, French, and Portuguese 
  • 7 Awareness Animation films in five languages – English, French, Portuguese, Spanish and Swahili to raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes & Hypertension and supporting girl education. 
  • Pan African TV Program “Our Africa by Merck Foundation” addressing Social and Health Issues in Africa through “Fashion and ART with Purpose” Community 
  • 950+ Scholarships provided to high performing but under-privileged African schoolgirls to empower them to complete their studies 
  • 15 Social Media Channels with more than 8.5 Million Followers. 

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! 
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/4h5m0Wq
X: https://apo-opa.co/4h1vz8R
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/46We05f
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/4odGAX2
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/48VpZmj
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/3L108zl
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/48meuUW

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/4h5m0Wq), X (https://apo-opa.co/4h1vz8R), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4odGAX2), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/46We05f), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/48VpZmj) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3L108zl). 

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. 

Media files

.

Posted on

President Ramaphosa hails Ireland’s stand on Gaza

Source: Government of South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended Ireland for its principled stance on the war in Gaza, saying the world must unite to end what he described as Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people.

Speaking at a luncheon hosted by Irish President Michael Higgins during his official visit to Dublin, President Ramaphosa said South Africa was encouraged by Ireland’s decision to recognise the State of Palestine as part of a just and lasting peace.

“South Africa commends Ireland for its consistent, principled position on Israel’s war on Gaza. There is growing global consensus that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and that the world must unite to end the conflict. We are encouraged by Ireland’s decision to recognise the Palestinian State as a vital part of a just and enduring peace,” the President said. 

He emphasised the need for dialogue and diplomacy in resolving global conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine. 

“The pursuit of peace through dialogue and diplomacy is now more essential than ever. That is why South Africa has repeatedly called for dialogue and negotiation to resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. We continue to emphasise the importance of achieving peace in all conflicts through negotiation rather than force,” he said.

Strengthening ties

President Ramaphosa’s visit to Ireland marks an important moment in the strengthening of ties between the two nations, built on shared history and mutual respect.

The President noted that beyond the two countries’ strong bilateral relationship, Ireland and South Africa share deep fraternal bonds that date back many years.  

“We remember with gratitude and humility the support that the Irish people gave to our struggle for democracy and freedom. The struggles of our respective peoples for statehood have rendered us kin. So, when South Africans visit Ireland, it is a homecoming,” he said. 

The President said Ireland and its people hold a special place in his heart, recalling his involvement in Northern Ireland’s peace process. 

“Alongside President Martti Ahtisaari of Finland, I was honoured to have played a small part in the decommissioning process in Northern Ireland. I have always held the greatest admiration for the Irish people; for their resilience, for their unwavering courage and for the principled solidarity. Ireland has always extended a hand to those suffering oppression and injustice,” President Ramaphosa said. 

He also highlighted ongoing cooperation through the South Africa-Ireland Joint Commission for Cooperation, which he said was rooted in mutual respect and a common commitment to multilateralism. 

“We share a vision of a just, peaceful and more equal world order in which all countries can develop and thrive,” he said.

The President noted that South Africa is Ireland’s largest trading partner in Africa, with imports ranging from aircraft and pharmaceuticals to data processing machinery. 

“According to the Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria, South Africa imported approximately 46 million Euros of Irish whiskey last year. This is one of the many Irish traditions that we South Africans cherish and celebrate,” he remarked.

He praised collaboration in education and research, including the Kader Asmal Fellowship, which has provided more than 100 South African students with scholarship opportunities in Ireland’s higher education institutions since 2012.

G20 Presidency

President Ramaphosa said South Africa was honoured to be leading the G20 under the theme Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability, and welcomed Ireland’s participation as a guest country.

“For the G20 to retain its relevance in today’s turbulent world, it must address issues of development, debt sustainability, climate action and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.

As the event drew to a close, President Ramaphosa thanked President Higgins for his leadership and friendship. 

“Mr President, as you come to the end of your term, I would like to thank you for your leadership and unwavering commitment to a just and equitable world. 

“I wish you well in your future endeavours and wish the Irish people a successful Presidential election on the 24th of October. Thank you once again for your warm friendship and hospitality. This has indeed been a homecoming for us,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za 

Posted on

We tested if a specialised magnetic powder could remove microplastics from drinking water: the answer is yes

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Riona Indhur, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Durban University of Technology

Microplastics are the crumbs of our plastic world, tiny pieces that come from bigger items breaking apart or from products like synthetic clothing and packaging. They’re now everywhere. Scientists estimate there are about 51 trillion of these particles floating in the world’s surface waters, and low levels have even been found in South African tap water.

That’s worrying because these particles can carry chemicals and bad bacteria, get eaten by fish and other wildlife, and may end up in our bodies.

We’re water scientists who are looking for ways to solve this problem. In a recent study, we tested a practical fix: two “magnetic cleaning powders” that can attach onto microplastics in water; the combined clumps can then be pulled out using a magnet. These materials are called magnetic nanocomposites (think: very fine powders with special surfaces).

The idea is simple: mix a small dose of powder into the water, let it attract and attach to microplastics, and then use a strong magnet to remove the powder-plastic clusters, leaving cleaner water behind.

Around the world, researchers have tried many different methods to capture microplastics, but our study is among the first to show that magnetic nanocomposites can work effectively not only under laboratory conditions but also in real-world samples, including municipal wastewater and drinking water.

This is the first study to use these specific nanomaterials for microplastic removal, proving both their high efficiency and their practical potential. Most existing filters struggle to catch the smallest plastics, the ones most harmful to health and the environment. The next step is to test these powders on a larger scale and develop simple, affordable systems that households and water treatment plants can use.

How well do the powders work?

In our research we found that the powders were able to remove up to 96% of small polyethylene and 92% of polystyrene particles from purified water. When we tried the same approach in both drinking water and water coming out of a municipal wastewater treatment plant, the results were just as strong. In drinking water the removal was about 94% and in treated wastewater the removal was up to 92%.

Another finding from this study is that the size of the plastic particles matters. The smaller the microplastic, the easier it is for the powders to attach to it, because tiny particles can reach more of the powder’s special “sticky” surface. We saw very good results for small plastics (hundreds of micrometres), but bigger particles (3-5 millimetres) were hardly removed at all. This is because they don’t mix with the powder as well and there’s less surface for the powder to attach onto.

In everyday terms, these magnetic powders are excellent for the small microplastics that are hardest to catch with normal filters.

Microplastics absorbed. Author supplied

Now for the big question: why do the powders attach to plastic? Think of it as being like tiny magnets. The powder and the plastics have special surfaces. The powder has parts that are sticky for plastics. This stickiness happens because of different kinds of forces. The plastic and powders have opposite charges which pull them together or allow them to stick together.

The key point is that the powders are engineered or specifically made to grab onto plastics so that microplastics naturally cling to them in water.

Once the powders attach onto the microplastics, we use a strong magnet (magnetic force: 250kg) to pull the powder–plastic clumps out of the water. The plastics are then separated from the powder by washing and filtration, dried, and weighed. This allows us to check how much plastic was removed. The separated powders are regenerated and reused, while the plastics are safely discarded, preventing them from re-entering the water.

We also looked at real-world questions: can you reuse the powders? And are they safe? The powders themselves are made from safe, lab-engineered materials: tiny sheets of carbon and boron nitride (a material also found in cosmetics and coatings) that are coated with magnetic iron nanoparticles. This makes them stable in water, and easy to pull out with a magnet after they’ve captured the microplastics.

After three rounds of use, the tested powders were effective in removing plastics up to 80%. That means you don’t need a new batch of powder every time, which is important for keeping costs down. Treating 1,000 litres of water with this method costs about US$41 (R763), making it competitive with many existing treatment options.

For safety, we tested the filtered powder (the “filtrate”) on plant growth. The results showed minimal to no toxicity, as three different plants were able to grow well in the presence of the filtrate. This is a strong sign that the method is environmentally friendly when used as intended.

What does this study mean for households and cities?

In the short term, magnetic powders could be built into small cartridges or filter units that attach to household or community water systems, helping remove microplastics before the water is used for drinking or cooking.

But the bigger picture is just as important. Microplastics are not only a South African problem but are also a global pollutant that crosses borders through rivers, oceans, and even the air we breathe. Low-cost, scalable solutions such as magnetic powders can make a real difference in resource-limited settings, where advanced filtration systems are too expensive or impractical.

Looking ahead, further work will focus on scaling up the method, testing it under more diverse water conditions, and designing simple, affordable devices that households or treatment plants can adopt.

In short: this specialised magnetic powder can tackle a tiny pollutant with big consequences. With sensible engineering and careful recovery, magnetic nanocomposites offer a promising, practical path to clean water while protecting the ecosystem from microplastic pollution.

– We tested if a specialised magnetic powder could remove microplastics from drinking water: the answer is yes
– https://theconversation.com/we-tested-if-a-specialised-magnetic-powder-could-remove-microplastics-from-drinking-water-the-answer-is-yes-264058

Posted on

Ethiopia has struggled to build national unity: can its big new dam deliver it?

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Namhla Thando Matshanda, Associate Professor, Department of Political Sciences, University of Pretoria

The formal launch of Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam in September 2025 made news across the world. There was pomp and ceremony as Africa’s largest hydroelectric dam was officially inaugurated after 14 years and US$5 billion worth of project work.

The project’s completion fulfils a national dream long in the making. It was formally initiated by the late Meles Zenawi, who served as president of Ethiopia from 1991 to 1995 and as prime minister from 1995 until his death in 2012. But the idea of a dam on the Ethiopian Nile dates back even further. As early as the 1950s, Emperor Haile Selassie recognised the potential of a dam for Ethiopia’s developmental needs.

This vision has occupied the Ethiopian national imagination since then. That is why Ethiopians celebrated the launch as a significant national achievement. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hailed the dam as a “shared opportunity” for the region, which stands to gain from surplus electricity exports. The dam’s opening was also celebrated with street processions across the country.

The completion of the dam is a major achievement. As a hydropower source, it is expected to deliver practical benefits such as electricity supply to a large number of Ethiopians. More than that, the dam is also being used to galvanise national pride and unity.

As a scholar of African politics with an interest in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa, my work has focused on the challenges of constructing national unity and inclusion in Ethiopia.

It is not surprising that the government has seized this moment. National pride and unity have been low in Ethiopia in recent years.

The quest for national cohesion has occupied Ethiopian state builders stretching back from the imperial state up until the present period. Previous attempts proved to be largely symbolic, however, with limited transformative power.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam risks falling into the same pattern. Its inauguration comes in the aftermath of a largely unresolved conflict in Tigray, and amid intense political fragmentation and ongoing civil wars in Ethiopia. When the war with Tigray ended, others erupted in different parts of the country, most notably in the Amhara and Oromo regions.

Elusive national unity

Ethiopia is a diverse country of over 120 million people. It comprises multiple ethnic, linguistic and religious groups.

Over 80 languages are spoken, with Amharic as the lingua franca. The largest ethnic groups correspond with the most widely spoken languages: Oromiffa, Amharic, Tigrinya and Somali.

Since the late 19th century, various leaders have attempted to construct a nation alongside the state. A state comes into being with the determination of borders and international recognition. Crafting a nation is different. It is the process of establishing a sense of common identity and purpose among the inhabitants of a state. The process of nation-making has been violently contested and fraught in Ethiopian political history.

The results of this contested history can show up in the most unlikely places. For instance, the grand opening of the dam was timed to fall in the month of Meskerem (September). It came a few days before the Ethiopian new year – Enkutatash – which is celebrated on 11 September. This holiday is a major event in the Ethiopian calendar and is usually marked by national celebrations.

However, the holiday is rooted in Ethiopian Orthodox traditions. It carries huge symbolism for at least one particular group – Ethiopia’s Orthodox Christians, who are just over 43% of the population. But others could have felt excluded by this choice.

This has not dissuaded those in power, throughout history, from using such symbolic events and occasions to foster a sense of national unity.

Symbolic nationalism

The imperial regime of Haile Selassie made concerted efforts to unite the nation following the Italian occupation of 1935. At this time, state sovereignty was compromised, with some sections of the country still under foreign occupation. The country was divided between those that resisted the occupation and those who collaborated with the Italians.

To build legitimacy and unity, the emperor turned to the heroic efforts of the patriotic resistance against the Italian occupation as a source of national pride. He also engaged in a policy of state modernisation. One of the key developments from this period was the establishment of Ethiopian Airlines in 1945.

The airline has been highly successful – and profitable. It has contributed to strengthening the Ethiopian brand. But it has not in any visible measure delivered long-term national unity and prevented political violence in Ethiopia.

The post-1991 government also made use of symbols and events to foster national unity. Amid growing concerns about where the ruling coalition was taking the country, in the lead up to the year 2007 (2000 according to the Ethiopian calendar), the government organised millennium celebrations. These captured the nation’s imagination and provided temporary respite from political tensions. Indeed, the initial name of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam was the Millennium Dam.

What these symbolic attempts managed to achieve is short-lived national pride. They also drew attention away from the structural challenges facing the country.

What is needed to achieve long-term national unity

Ethiopia must come to terms with the deep-seated issues of inequality, historical and contemporary grievances of exclusion and marginalisation. These are the key drivers of recurring cycles of political violence. The country needs to have honest conversations, in non-partisan platforms.

The National Dialogue that is currently underway is a good place to start. The process was launched in 2022 to address key national questions thrown up in part by the disastrous Tigray war. The dialogue seeks to create conducive conditions for national consensus on the root causes of divisions in the country.

National dialogues are useful tools that have been used in diverse national contexts for the purpose of conflict transformation and addressing internal conflicts. These have potential to yield positive results if they are inclusive and have clear implementation plans.

There are fears, however, that the dialogue might be undermined by the Ethiopian government, especially in light of elections in 2026. The government might use the national dialogue to advance its position and present itself in a positive light in relation to its political opponents.

If the National Dialogue fails to achieve its intended objectives, then it will be left to the different communities in Ethiopia to organise their own non-partisan platforms where they can have these urgent national conversations. Here, they would need to find consensus on key areas of national concern and collectively seek solutions. In so doing, Ethiopians would have taken significant steps towards nation building.

– Ethiopia has struggled to build national unity: can its big new dam deliver it?
– https://theconversation.com/ethiopia-has-struggled-to-build-national-unity-can-its-big-new-dam-deliver-it-265630