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Joint Statement by Arab League and OIC Leaders at Multilateral Summit with US President

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 24, 2025

A multilateral summit of the leaders of the United States and eight states representing the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was convened at the United Nations Headquarters, on the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The meeting was convened at the initiative of HE President of the United States of America Donald J. Trump. It was co-hosted by HE President Trump and HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. The summit was attended by HM King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan; HE President of the Republic of Turkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan; HE President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto; HE Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif; HE Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Moustafa Kamal Madbouly; HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan; and HH Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud.

During the meeting, the leaders of Arab/OIC states thanked President Trump for calling for this important meeting. They highlighted the unbearable situation in the Gaza Strip, including the humanitarian catastrophe and high human toll, as well as its serious consequences for the region and impact on the Muslim world as a whole. They reiterated the common position rejecting forced-displacement and the need to allow the return of those who left.

The leaders emphasized the need to end the war and achieve an immediate ceasefire that would ensure releasing the hostages and allowing the entry of sufficient humanitarian aid as the first step toward a just and lasting peace.

They reiterated their commitment to cooperate with President Trump, and stressed the importance of his leadership to end the war and open horizons for a just and lasting peace.

  They emphasized the need to work out details of a plan for stabilization, while ensuring stability in the West Bank and Jerusalem’s Holy Sites. They supported Palestinian Authority reform efforts.

Participants affirmed the need to ensure a comprehensive plan for reconstruction in Gaza, based on the Arab and OIC plan, as well as security arrangements, with international assistance supporting the Palestinian leadership, and expressed commitment to work together to ensure the success of plans and to rebuild the lives of Palestinians in Gaza.

They also emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum to ensure that this meeting is the beginning of a process on the right path to a future of peace and regional cooperation. 

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Qatar Participates in Joint Ministerial Meeting of GCC Foreign Ministers with UK

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 24, 2025

The State of Qatar took part on Wednesday in the joint ministerial meeting between the foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states and the United Kingdom, held on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The State of Qatar was represented at the meeting by HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi. 

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West Africa Regional Preparatory Workshop for the upcoming 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) on Climate Change Opens in Dakar

Source: APO – Report:

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From September 23 to 25, 2025, Senegal will host a preparatory workshop for the West African region for the upcoming 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Dakar.

This regional workshop, jointly organized by the ECOWAS and UEMOA Commissions, will be led by thematic coordinators of the West African region engaged in international negotiations through the analysis of the results of the 62nd session of the subsidiary bodies (SB62) and other key international meetings held in preparation for COP30.

The main objective of the workshop is to ensure that countries take ownership of the latest developments of SB62 and to formulate regional priorities for advocacy during the COP30 negotiations.

During this meeting in Dakar, West African climate negotiators will have the opportunity to identify gaps in the implementation of previous COP decisions and to make concrete proposals to be taken to the level of the African Group of Climate Negotiators and in the negotiations that will take place at COP30.

It will also be an opportunity to discuss the acquisition of a West African pavilion to present regional projects that have helped reduce or avoid greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation projects coordinated by the various ECOWAS Directorates and specialized Agencies as well as certain specialized sub-regional institutions.

The opening ceremony was chaired by Mr. Gueye, Director of Cabinet representing the Minister of Environment and Ecological Transition of the Republic of Senegal. The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Amadou TCHAMBOU, Resident Representative of the UEMOA Commission in Senegal, and Mr. Yao Bernard KOFFI, the Acting Director of Environment and Natural Resources of ECOWAS.

In addition to representatives of ECOWAS and UEMOA member states, several partners including UNFCCC, IOM, UNICEF, WASCAL, the AGRHYMET Regional Centre, the UNFCCC Regional Collaboration Centre, and thematic coordinators are taking part in the regional workshop.

As a reminder, COP30, the United Nations Climate Summit, will be held this year in Belem, Brazil, from November 10 to 21, 2025. The challenges of this Summit are, among other things, (i) to find financing solutions to gradually abandon fossil fuels; (ii) the adoption of the operationalization arrangements for the Loss and Damage Fund; (iii) the definition of a global objective for adaptation; (iv) the definition of a new collective quantified objective for financing climate action; and (v) the implementation of the Glasgow-Sharm El Sheikh work programme on the global objective on adaptation.

Participants in this preparatory workshop are the focal points of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and experts in charge of NDCs in ECOWAS Member States, representatives of the ECOWAS and UEMOA Commissions, CILSS/AGRHYMET, WASCAL, CRC/UNFCCC, IOM, UNICEF and the coordinators of the thematic groups.

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

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African Development Bank Group Board Approves New Strategy to Drive Economic Diversification and Private Sector-led Inclusive Growth in Lesotho

Source: APO

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org) has approved a new $209 million Country Strategy Paper (CSP) for Lesotho, setting out a roadmap to accelerate the country’s transition toward economic diversification, resilience, and inclusive growth over the next five years.

The approval comes at a crucial moment for the landlocked country, which continues to face major development challenges, including the impact of a recent 15 percent U.S. tariff on apparel exports, the loss of Official Development Assistance following the cancellation of the $300 million Millennium Challenge Corporation compact, and its reliance on regional economic performance. Nearly half of Lesotho’s population lives in poverty, and youth unemployment remains close to 39 percent.  The new strategy aims to address these vulnerabilities by unlocking private sector growth, creating sustainable employment, and building stronger institutions.

“Lesotho stands at a critical juncture,” said Moono Mupotola, the Bank Group’s Deputy Director General for Southern Africa and Country Manager for Lesotho. “This comprehensive strategy leverages the country’s abundant water resources, strategic location, and demographic dividend to unlock new pathways for inclusive growth and economic diversification.”

The strategy centers on two main priorities: building sustainable infrastructure to drive industrialization and strengthening institutional and human capacities to enhance competitiveness. Key targets include achieving universal electricity access by 2030 through the Mission 300 program, reducing broadband costs to foster a thriving tech start-up ecosystem, and expanding safe drinking water access to thousands more households.

The Bank will also support water and agricultural infrastructure to boost productivity, while also helping the government modernize tax collection systems and strengthen public sector management capacity with new training programs for civil servants.

Catalyzing Private Sector Growth

The Bank will back policy reforms and infrastructure investments that reduce the cost of doing business, expand funding for digital innovation and promote entrepreneurship. Support will be directed to startups and small businesses, including women- and youth-led enterprises, while skills development programs are expected to equip 20,000 young people– 40 percent of them women– with the digital skills required for the modern economy.

With Lesotho highly vulnerable to climate shocks, the Strategy incorporates measures to scale up climate-smart agriculture, strengthen disaster risk management, and expand investments in renewable energy and water infrastructure. These initiatives are designed not only to safeguard livelihoods but also to tackle pressing social issues, such as reducing child stunting, which affects more than a third of children under five.

 Regional Integration Focus

The Bank will help position Lesotho to benefit from integration with larger markets by supporting cross-border infrastructure links to South Africa, trade facilitation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),  and participation in the regional value chain, particularly in agro-processing. By improving connectivity and reducing economic isolation, the strategy seeks to expand opportunities for Lesotho’s businesses and workers beyond its borders.

The new Country Strategy Paper builds on the lessons of past Bank operations in Lesotho and emphasizes integrated, multisectoral approaches, stronger implementation capacity, and proactive portfolio management. It aligns with Lesotho’s National Strategic Development Plan II (2018-2028), the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024-2033), the African Union’s Agenda 2063 (https://apo-opa.co/46za6PF), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. To deliver results, the Bank will draw on multiple financing windows, including its concessional African Development Fund, the Regional Operations Window, and the Climate Action Window, while working in close partnership with other development institutions.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).

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

About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group is Africa’s premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 41 African countries with an external office in Japan, the Bank contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org

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30 years after Beijing: Slow but steady gender equality gains in East and Southern Africa

Source: APO


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Policymakers and gender and statistics experts in East and Southern Africa have spotlighted the need to harmonize legal systems based on equality guarantees provided in the constitutions of countries in the sub-region, and the full implementation of all gender-related initiatives for the achievement of gender equality.

The experts convened in a policy discussion following submissions from 23 countries that have been published in a new report titled “Gender Equality Response Systems in East and Southern Africa: 30 years after the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.”

The policy discussion was aimed at unpacking the submissions, which detail countries’ progress and commitments towards gender equality, and reviewing trends and the policy actions to achieve equality in the context of the 30th anniversary of The Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing−The Beijing Conference−a pivotal moment in the global history of women’s rights.

Since last year, in readiness for the 30th commemoration of the Beijing Conference, countries in the sub-region have submitted a total of 41 cross-cutting commitments towards gender equality. Some of the most prominent commitments include increasing opportunities for youth and adolescent girls, strong emphasis on law and policy reform, increased financing for gender equality, and improving the collection of gender data.

“The key is to make commitments that are visible, measurable, and responsive to the needs of all women and girls” said Ms. Anna Mutavati, Regional Director, UN Women for East and Southern Africa.

“Countries can move their Beijing+30 commitments forward by combining strong laws, adequate funding, institutional capacity, robust data, inclusive partnerships, youth focus, and accountability,” Ms. said Mutavati.

Considered the most progressive blueprint ever for advancing women’s rights, and the first global policy to include a specific focus on girls’ rights and address violence against girls, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA) ushered in an era of law- and policymaking and programming on 12 critical areas of concern identified in the BPfA. These ranged from women and poverty, women and health, and violence against women (VAW) to women and the economy, women in power and decision-making, and women and the environment.

For example, in East and southern Africa, 20 countries have since developed and adopted legislation, policy, strategy and/or action plans against gender-based violence (GBV) and 10 have amended their penal codes and child protection laws or adopted a sexual offences law to criminalize GBV acts. To support girls’ education, 14 countries have adopted policies ensuring their continuation or re-entry to school after pregnancy and childbirth while 14 countries have developed, or are in the process of developing, national women, peace, and security action plans to help ensure that women are well represented in peacebuilding.

Since 1995, East and southern African countries have made commendable progress towards gender equality: the gender divide in primary education is minimal and girls’ enrollment rates in secondary and tertiary education has visibly increased; women’s representation in politics has been on the rise since the early 2000s with southern Africa displaying the highest proportion of women in single/lower houses on the continent (nearly one-third or 32%) and Rwanda with the highest proportion of women in parliament globally with 61% representation. Maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly; from 1990 to 2015, Sub-Saharan Africa had nearly halved the rate (a reduction of 45%).

Financial access for women has been on the rise with far more women independently opening bank accounts and accessing credit in most African countries. One in three ESA countries has adopted financial inclusion strategies. Another win is that child marriage is now illegal with a vast majority of ESA countries having legislated the minimum age for marriage as 18 or above and integrating action plans to eradicate female genital mutilation (FGM).

However, women here still grapple with poverty, violence, overrepresentation in informal work and underrepresentation in peacebuilding and climate governance, hindering progress towards gender equality.

“This link between poverty and gender inequality drives a vicious circle,” said Ms. Keiso Matashane-Marite, Chief, Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Section (GEWES), at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

“If unchecked, it further impoverishes women’s families and communities and widens the gap in standards of living between women and men, added Ms. Matashane-Marite.

Even with the gains in public leadership, East and southern African women in decision-making continue to face expressions of stereotypes, discriminatory attitudes, and patriarchal structures, including in political parties. This impedes their meaningful and even safe participation. Lack of compliance with or poor implementation of legislated and even constitutional quotas, political violence against women, and non-inclusive electoral systems also lead to women being under-represented in public leadership.

“Although gender data is a powerful catalyst for advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, inadequate resources and, in some cases, insufficient coordination among actors, leads to gaps,” said Ms. Isabella Schmidt, Regional Gender Statistics Advisor, UN Women for East and Southern Africa.

“This, limits evidence-based policymaking and planning, including gender-responsive budgeting,” emphasized Ms. Schmidt.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA).

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Qatar Participates in UN Security Council Emergency Meeting on Situation in Middle East, Including Palestinian Question

Source: Government of Qatar

New York, September 24, 2025

The State of Qatar participated in the emergency ministerial meeting of the Security Council on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad represented the State of Qatar at the meeting.
In Qatar’s statement to the meeting, Her Excellency affirmed Qatar’s adherence to the Islamic Group’s statement.
Her Excellency said that experience has confirmed that mediation and diplomacy are the only way to resolve disputes, noting that the joint efforts made by the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the United States to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip were widely appreciated and the Security Council recognized their importance in its Resolution 2735 (2024).
However, these efforts suffered a treacherous blow when an Israeli airstrike targeted a residential area in Doha on Sep. 9, resulting in civilian casualties, including the martyr Bader Al Dosari, 22, and the injury of 18 others, Her Excellency added.
Her Excellency stressed that the Israeli attack on a mediating state is not only a flagrant violation of its sovereignty, international humanitarian law, and the UN Charter, but also a direct assault on the principle of mediation itself and an undermining of dialogue as an option for resolving conflicts.
Her Excellency said that protecting mediators and negotiators is not just a political issue, but rather a fundamental pillar of maintaining international peace and security.
Her Excellency noted that international solidarity with the State of Qatar was evident, both through the Security Council statement issued on Sep. 11 and at the Arab-Islamic summit held in Doha, all of which emphasized that this Israeli attack poses a serious threat to regional security and undermines prospects for peace and calm efforts.
HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation noted that this month, particularly during the High-Level Week, witnessed the crystallization of an unprecedented international consensus in support of a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and the two-state solution based on international law and international legitimacy resolutions.
Her Excellency indicated that this consensus was evident in the statements made by heads of state and government before the General Assembly’s general debate, and at the ministerial conference co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, with the participation of the State of Qatar at the highest level. Several countries announced their recognition of the State of Palestine, completing the international drive to resolve the longest-standing issues at the United Nations.
Her Excellency added that this consensus is embodied in numerous General Assembly resolutions, the most recent of which was the resolution on the participation of the State of Palestine, hading hoped that the Security Council would join this consensus by adopting the draft resolution submitted by the elected states. This council, by virtue of its basic mandate, bears full responsibility for taking the necessary measures to halt the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, prevent genocide and forced displacement, and adopt a binding resolution under Chapter VII to ensure Israel’s compliance with its resolutions and impose an immediate ceasefire.
Her Excellency stressed that Israel’s violations of international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territories continue systematically. These include targeting civilians, using starvation as a weapon, destroying infrastructure and hospitals, forced displacement, threats of illegal annexation of the West Bank, settlement expansion, and repeated attacks on Islamic and Christian holy sites. These violations constitute clear violations of international law and pose a direct threat to the two-state solution.
Her Excellency emphasized that repeated Israeli attacks on the territories of neighboring countries, in Syria and Lebanon, undermine stability and increase the likelihood of a wider conflict, making their threat to international peace and security an urgent responsibility for this council.
Her Excellency added that a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in the Middle East will not be achieved by ignoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people or by imposing a fait accompli by force, but rather by adhering to the Arab Peace Initiative and relevant international legitimacy resolutions.
From this platform, we call on the international community, especially the Security Council, to assume its legal and moral responsibilities and adopt practical steps to establish a binding timetable for ending the Israeli occupation and ensuring full recognition of the State of Palestine on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, Her Excellency added.
Her Excellency urged the United Nations to activate all its mechanisms to achieve an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, ensure unconditional access for humanitarian aid, lift the siege, protect mediators and mediation efforts as an essential tool for resolving conflicts, and work to achieve a final political settlement based on the two-state solution, ensuring international security and stability.

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Merck Foundation Chief Executive Officer (CEO) meets Senegal First Lady & 13 First Ladies of Africa at 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit to discuss the strategy to build healthcare capacity in Senegal

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, conducted the 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative – MFFLI Summit 2025 recently. It was inaugurated by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board of Trustees, and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation & President of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative and H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign along with First Ladies of Angola, Cabo Verde, Central African Republic, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, Maldives, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé & Príncipe and Zimbabwe.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It is a great pleasure to welcome H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and to appoint her as the Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign. We are delighted to begin this impactful journey together, through our programs.

I am happy to share that we have so far provided 25 scholarships for Senegalese doctors in many specialties such as Oncology, Diabetes, Fertility, and Embryology. We will soon be enrolling more doctors for various other critical and underserved specialties”.

H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother” Campaign shared, “It is a true honour to be appointed as the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” and join the 7th Edition of the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit, alongside my fellow African and Asian First Ladies. I am greatly inspired by the achievements of my dear sisters through Merck Foundation programs. I am also happy to share that in my country, till date 25 scholarships have been provided for our young doctors across key specialties and especially, Diabetes Mastercourse which has been offered in French language, making it more accessible for our local medical doctors.

In addition, I am excited to launch the ‘Educating Linda’ program, which supports girl education. I firmly believe in empowering girls through education, as it plays a crucial role in building stronger and healthier nations.”

Watch the Speech of The First Lady of Senegal & Ambassador of Merck Foundation More Than a Mother during the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative Summit 2025 here: https://youtu.be/xQ9fTgcAdOE

Watch the video of Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej receiving H.E. Madam MARIE KHONE FAYE, First Lady of the Republic of Senegal, and Ambassador of Merck Foundation “More Than a Mother”: https://apo-opa.co/3VzYkzz

On day 2 of the Summit, Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative- MFFLI committee meeting was conducted between The First Ladies of Africa and Merck Foundation Chairman and CEO, where the African and Asian First Ladies shared the impact report of Merck Foundation programs in their respective countries, and future strategy was discussed.

Watch the video of MFFLI committee meeting: https://apo-opa.co/3VScool

During the Luminary, a meeting between The First Lady of Senegal and Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej was also held to discuss the impact of on-going programs and define strategies to further build healthcare and media capacity in Senegal to improve patient care and raise awareness about wide range of social and health issues in the country.

Watch video of the meeting between Merck Foundation CEO, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej and Senegal First Lady: https://apo-opa.co/42NxLL4

Together with Senegal First Lady, Merck Foundation has provided 25 scholarships for local doctors in Senegal in many critical and underserved specialties. Out of 25 scholarships:

  • 8 Scholarships have been provided in the vital field of oncology, so that the patients can receive quality and equitable cancer care in their home country. 
  • 7 Scholarships have been provided for our doctors for hands-on training in Fertility and Embryology, as well as for One-Year Postgraduate and Two-Year Master’s Degrees in Sexual and Reproductive Care. This will significantly contribute to advancement of women’s health and revolutionize the Reproductive and Fertility care in Senegal.  
  • 10 scholarships have been provided for Diabetes Master Course. Upon completion, these doctors will not only be equipped to effectively treat patients with diabetes but will also play a key role in raising awareness about the condition and promoting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in our communities.

Overall, Merck Foundation has provided 2280 scholarships for doctors from 52 countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialties.

Merck Foundation also announced the Call for applications for their 8 important awards in partnership with The First Lady of Senegal for Media, Musicians, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, students, and new potential talents in these fields.

Moreover, in partnership with The First Lady of Senegal, Merck Foundation is launching their children’s storybooks, “More Than a Mother”, “Educating Linda”, “Jackline’s Rescue”, “Not Who You Are”, “Ride into the Future” and “Sugar free Jude”, and “Mark’s Pressure”. The storybooks address various social and health issues like breaking infertility stigma, supporting girl education, stopping GBV, diabetes and hypertension awareness. The storybooks will be made available in French Language.

The 7th Edition of Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative was streamed live on the social media handles of Merck Foundation and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation:

@ Merck Foundation: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk).

@ Rasha Kelej: Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/42GRagJ), X (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFDdO), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4nMaCkb), and YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/4nrFGq0).

Link to the YouTube live stream of Inaugural Session of Merck Foundation First Ladies High Level Panel: https://apo-opa.co/4nKBW2l

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

  • 2280+ Scholarships provided by Merck Foundation for doctors from 52 Countries in more than 44 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 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: http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU
X: http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK
YouTube: http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk
Instagram: http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX
Threads: http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9
Flickr: http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4nIvDMH

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 (http://apo-opa.co/48sUUWU), X (http://apo-opa.co/4806pVK), Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/4njp4jX), YouTube (http://apo-opa.co/3VudXZk), Threads (http://apo-opa.co/47TRCf9) and Flickr (http://apo-opa.co/3KhFz1o).

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

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South Sudan: Unity in diversity marks inclusive Peace Day event in Kuajok

Source: APO

Most everyone was on board when multiethnic residents of Warrap State, at least for a few hours, forgot about their divisions and got together to talk about, and celebrate, peace, and how it begins with all of us moving forward together.

“We have been clashing, and we have lost lives, but today we stand together. If peace begins with me, then I must also let go of the past, because our children deserve a future free from fear,” said Ayen Chol from conflict-plagued Tonj East.

Having lost a brother to intercommunal fighting, she shares the pain of thousands of Warrap residents affected by local conflicts.

“For us to have peace, justice, food security and access to schools and healthcare, every citizen must choose non-violence, volunteer in their communities and mentoring the next generation,” remarked Madit Mawien Adhiik, the state’s Minister of Peacebuilding.

As pulsating drumbeats rolled in over Kuajok’s Freedom Square and a large crowd enjoyed and multicultural performances of songs and dances into a street party, it all made sense, but also served as food for thought.

“For the peace we want to last, half of the population cannot be left out of decision-making. Women must have a voice in the justice system, in the cattle camps, in the councils of our leaders. For too long, we haven’t had that,” commented Akuot Majok, a friend of Ms. Chol.

Others, like young reporter John Mayar, remembered an oft-neglected group of vulnerable citizens.

“Think about our street children, who rarely get a chance to go to school. They sell tea at the market; they carry babies on their backs and survive on their own. They must also be heard when we talk about our future.”

On stage, artists advocated for inclusivity and mutual respect in their own ways, with Gogrial West singers swapping verses with youth performers from Twic, and groups from Acholi and neighbouring Lakes State singing together about forgiveness and resilience.

“Many of you may be celebrating today because guns in Warrap have been silent for more than a month, but silence alone is not enough. Reconciliation and justice are also necessary for peace,” noted Anastasie Nyirigira Mukangarambe, Head of the peacekeeping mission’s Field Office in Kuajok.

Perseverance and practical action, she may have added to that list of requirements. At least that is what young John Akok, lingering in the vicinity of the emptying party venue, hinted at.

“We celebrate this occasion every year, but if the peace we are talking about stays on that stage instead of being brought home and to any place where it’s needed, then we haven’t really learnt anything.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

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Dr Katrina Esau honoured for her role in preserving indigenous language

Source: Government of South Africa

Acting President Paul Mashatile has honoured Dr Katrina Esau, the last fluent speaker of the critically endangered indigenous N’uu language and one of South Africa’s revered living human treasures.

N’uu is the language of the San people, who were the first hunter-gatherers in southern Africa.

Speaking during the official Heritage Day celebrations event in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, he highlighted the importance of preserving cultural identity while creating opportunities for youth and addressing societal challenges.

READ | Acting President advocates for the transformation of heritage institutions 

The Acting President emphasised Esau’s importance as she sat in the front row of the marquee, stating that “when a language dies, a universe of meaning, memory, and identity is lost forever.”

He described Esau as one of the country’s living human treasures who are vital to the transmission of heritage, serving as custodians of knowledge, skills, and cultural practices. 

“They guide communities, enrich cultural experiences, and educate society on the enduring value of arts and culture,” he said on Wednesday. 

He believes that Esau stands as a towering figure, embodying resilience, wisdom, and the unbroken thread of indigenous knowledge. 

“Through the wealth of her experience and teachings, we as a nation continue to draw inspiration and strength. Her life’s work reminds us of the urgent responsibility to safeguard our intangible cultural heritage for future generations.”

The Acting President expressed gratitude to Esau for sharing knowledge with young people. 
He announced that the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, will support her school, which is located at her home in Rosedale, outside Upington in the Northern Cape.

“With every lesson she imparts to present and future generations, she does far more than transmit words; she safeguards a profound archive of human experience and linguistic heritage.

“Her voice reminds us that when a language dies, a universe of meaning, memory, and identity is lost forever. It is for this reason that the restoration and preservation of our indigenous languages must remain central to our pursuit of restoring the dignity of those whose voices were silenced and whose languages were suppressed.” 

He also took the time to pay tribute to the central role played by traditional and Khoisan leaders, Kings and Queens, in the defence of “our beautiful land and the safeguarding of our heritage.”

“Throughout history, they have stood as custodians of culture, identity, and memory, ensuring that the wisdom of our ancestors is preserved and passed on to future generations.” 

The Acting President stated that their leadership has not only protected the country’s territories but also promoted the values of unity, dignity, and resilience among its citizens.

“Today, as we chart the path towards a more cohesive and inclusive society, we draw inspiration from their enduring legacy and acknowledge their invaluable contribution to the preservation of our heritage as a whole.

“Some of our Traditional and Khoisan leaders, who fought fearlessly in these wars, were beheaded, their skeletal remains collected as trophies and shipped out of the country to museums across Euro-Western countries.” 

He announced that government is actively working to restore dignity through several initiatives, including a national policy for the repatriation of human remains, reburial of Khoisan ancestral remains and identifying international institutions holding sacred human remains. – SAnews.gov.za

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Graduated, now what? Survey of young Africans shows degrees don’t always land them a job

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Andrea Juan, Chief Research Specialist, Human Sciences Research Council

Study hard, get your degree, and then step confidently into a stable, well-paid job. That’s long been the assumption about how to secure a livelihood: in neat, predictable stages. But it is increasingly out of touch with reality. Secure jobs are no longer guaranteed after obtaining a tertiary qualification.

Up-to-date and reliable data on graduate unemployment in Africa is hard to come by. A 2014 British Council study estimated that nearly one in four Nigerian graduates (23.1%) were unemployed. In Kenya, the study said, it took graduates an average of five years to secure their first job. In South Africa, graduate unemployment stood at just 5.8% in 2008. By 2023, this had more than doubled to 11.8%. When looking specifically at young graduates aged 20–29 – a useful proxy for those newly entering the job market – the figure is even starker: nearly one in three (30.3%) were unemployed in 2023.

These figures signal a crisis. The mismatch between graduates and opportunities makes it clear that it’s essential to find diverse ways of making a living.

So what do graduates do to generate livelihoods? We recently conducted research tracking more than 500 African tertiary graduates across 21 universities (nine in African countries and 12 in other countries) over five years to provide some answers.

The findings showed that graduates were piecing together livelihoods from multiple sources rather than walking the straight road of a career. Their paths were complex. Only 16% of the total sample moved smoothly from tertiary education into a job and remained in employment over the period of the survey.

Knowing this, universities can help provide graduates with the skills and resources they will need for the real world.

Graduates build portfolios of income

The study showed that African graduates are resourceful in generating livelihoods. From their responses we identified some trends.

First, they do more than one thing. Almost half of the respondents were engaged in more than one activity – for example, working while running a side business or pursuing further studies. A Ugandan graduate explained how he juggled salaried work, family farming projects and continued education.

Second, they make education itself a livelihood. Scholarships, postgraduate degrees and research opportunities provided both income and stability. Others use underemployment (jobs that don’t match their qualification, skills or ambitions) as stepping stones, gaining experience while waiting for better opportunities.

Third, entrepreneurship or self-employment has a role. While only a small minority relied solely on their own businesses, about a fifth of graduates supplemented their income in this way. Some sold goods, others started NGOs or social enterprises, and many saw entrepreneurship as a safety net in an unpredictable labour market.

But this isn’t just about necessity. Graduates are motivated by opportunity, passion projects, and the chance to build something of their own, often with family members. This challenges the common view that entrepreneurship in Africa is driven only by desperation. In reality, necessity and opportunity overlap, and both are part of how graduates make a living.

Beyond ‘waiting’ for an opportunity

The pathways described by graduates don’t fit the conventional picture of being “stuck” or “unemployed”. Instead, they are marked by movement, improvisation and continuous reinvention.

Even when underemployed, graduates often describe their jobs as dignified or at least as stepping stones. They are investing in their futures, sharpening skills and building networks.

Read more: Four things that count when a South African graduate looks for work

This kind of agency (the capacity to navigate uncertainty and imagine alternative futures) is a crucial resource. It allows young Africans to find dignity and purpose in contexts where institutional support and job opportunities are limited.

What universities can do differently to prepare graduates

These findings raise tough questions for universities. If the education-to-employment pipeline is so complex, what role should higher education play in preparing graduates? Our research points to some answers:

First, universities must stop clinging to outdated concepts like “employability”. Degrees are not tickets to stable jobs. Instead, education should prepare students for diversified, non-linear livelihoods. This means teaching not just technical skills but also resilience, adaptability and entrepreneurial thinking.

Read more: Millions of young South Africans are jobless: study finds that giving them ‘soft’ skills like networking helps their prospects

Entrepreneurship education is one starting point. Courses on business planning, financial management and networking can help graduates who want to start or sustain ventures.

But skills alone are not enough. Without supportive ecosystems, such as incubators, access to finance and mentorship, many small businesses fail. Universities could act as hubs, linking students and graduates to government programmes, private sector partners and alumni networks. Partnerships between universities and government agencies, like South Africa’s National Youth Development Agency which funds business ventures, need to be forged.

Career services also need to evolve. Rather than focusing narrowly on job placements, universities should help students explore multiple career paths, build social capital and access opportunities for income diversification. Practical resources, like co-working spaces, short courses or “micro-credentials” that allow graduates to quickly pick up new skills, and seed funding could give graduates a head start.

Read more: It’s time to take a new, more creative approach to career counselling

Finally, alumni networks are a powerful but underused asset. Showcasing graduates who have successfully diversified their income can inspire others and change the prevailing narrative.

Education should no longer be seen simply as a bridge to wage employment, but as a platform for building flexible, multi-dimensional livelihoods.

A new story of graduate life

The African youth population is still growing, and the labour market will not suddenly expand to meet demand. That reality can sound daunting. But the stories of young graduates also show resilience, creativity and determination. They are not passively “waiting” for jobs – they are actively constructing futures, often against the odds.

Universities and other tertiary education institutions must catch up. By supporting entrepreneurship, fostering networks and recognising the reality of non-linear transitions, they can help graduates navigate uncertainty with confidence.

The future of work in Africa will not be defined by smooth transitions, but by complex entanglements. Recognising and supporting these entanglements may be one of the most important tasks of higher education in the decades ahead.

– Graduated, now what? Survey of young Africans shows degrees don’t always land them a job
– https://theconversation.com/graduated-now-what-survey-of-young-africans-shows-degrees-dont-always-land-them-a-job-264999