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Liquid Intelligent Technologies South Africa’s (SA) Fibre TechCelerate Programme continues to celebrate and empower Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) with essential digital and business skills

Source: APO – Report:

Liquid Intelligent Technologies (Liquid) (https://Liquid.Tech/), a business of Cassava Technologies, a global technology leader of African heritage, has announced the successful completion of its 2024 Fibre TechCelerate Programme in South Africa. The first cohort of 20 SMMEs and 10 female ICT students from Walter Sisulu University received their certifications at a graduation ceremony facilitated in East London. Twenty-five new SMMEs were welcomed into the 2025 programme at the same time.  

This initiative equips small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) with the technical, business, and digital skills required to actively contribute to projects, including but not limited to the Eastern Cape Provincial Government’s fibre and broadband rollout project.  

“As we honour the achievements of the first Fibre TechCelerate graduates and welcome our next intake, we’re reminded that this programme is more than just a skills accelerator; it’s a catalyst for transformation. Working alongside the Provincial Government and supported by our implementation partner, Cortex Hub, we are proud to be empowering local businesses, especially youth and women, as well as investing in a digitally inclusive future for the Eastern Cape and beyond,” said Ziaad Suleman, CEO of Cassava Technologies in South Africa and Botswana.  

Structured around modules such as business management, fibre optics installation, occupational health and safety, digital skills, and mentorship, the initiative prepares SMMEs to thrive in South Africa’s digital economy and fosters inclusive economic growth.  

“The Liquid Fibre TechCelerate Programme is so much more than a local enterprise and supplier development programme. Offering SMMEs in the Eastern Cape a comprehensive and sustainable business development and ICT training prepares these enterprises for success in the digital economy. As the programme’s implementing agency, the Cortex Hub is proud to witness the success of the participants, and we look forward to working closely with Liquid South Africa, the Eastern Cape Provincial Government, and all other contributors in supporting the 2025 cohort,” added Dr Andile Ngcaba, Patron, Cortex Hub.  

The current fibre network installation in the province has created over 7,000 permanent and temporary jobs. Liquid’s involvement through the Fibre TechCelerate Programme reflects its commitment to providing best-in-class connectivity and digital solutions to local enterprises, government, and individuals in the Eastern Cape, empowering them on their digital transformation journeys.  

Partnering with the Eastern Cape Provincial Government on the Fibre TechCelerate Programme highlights the importance that Liquid South Africa places on public-private partnerships in accelerating the country’s digital transformation and ensuring a digitally connected future that leaves no African behind.  

?> – on behalf of Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

Liquid Intelligent Technologies:
Liquid Intelligent Technologies is a business of Cassava Technologies (Cassava), a technology company of African heritage with operations in 40-plus markets across Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, where the Cassava group companies operate. Liquid has firmly established itself as the leading provider of pan-African digital infrastructure with a 110,000 km-long fibre broadband network and satellite connectivity that provides high-speed access to the Internet anywhere in Africa. Liquid is also leveraging its digital network to provide Cloud and Cyber Security solutions through strategic partnerships with leading global players. Liquid is a comprehensive technology solutions group that provides customised digital solutions to public and private sector enterprises and SMEs across the continent. For more information, visit https://www.Liquid.Tech/.  

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Participates in Women Leaders Forum in Turkmenistan

Source: Government of Qatar

Awaza, August 07 

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad participated in the Women Leaders Forum, held on the sidelines of the United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, taking place in the city of Awaza, Turkmenistan, with the presence of HE Vice President of the Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care Oguljahan Atabayeva.

In her speech at the forum, HE the Minister of State for International Cooperation emphasized that speaking about justice for women anywhere is incomplete without speaking about justice for the women of Gaza, stressing that women in all conflict zones deserve protection, safety, and a peaceful life.

Her Excellency added that she cannot speak about women’s rights without referring to the women of Gaza who endure unimaginable suffering, stressing that they are deprived of the most basic human needs, including education, safety, sanitation, and dignity, they face the threat of famine, and their children go to sleep hungry, burdened by trauma, with their childhoods stolen from them.

Her Excellency pointed out that the State of Qatar fully understands that empowering women is not merely a matter of justice and fairness, but a fundamental pillar of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable development.

Her Excellency affirmed that women do not wait for an invitation to participate; rather, they are already playing leadership roles across various sectors including government, diplomacy, education, business, and innovation.

Her Excellency explained that Qatar’s national strategy was designed to enable women to realize their full potential through progressive policies that ensure protection for mothers, equal pay, pathways to leadership, and work environments that respect and support women.

Her Excellency explained in this context that one of the most inspiring examples of this is the vision of HH Chairperson of the Education Above All Foundation Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, whose pioneering work through the foundation has enabled millions of children deprived of education, especially in the least developed countries, to access their right to education, while preserving their dignity and opening new horizons for their future, noting that Her Highness’s leadership embodies a profound truth: When women participate in development, entire societies rise.

Her Excellency underscored that nearly half of the population in landlocked developing countries are women, yet for a long time, they have been asked to achieve more with fewer resources.

The time has come to change that, Her Excellency added, stressing that if they are serious about achieving the goals of the Programme of Action for Landlocked Developing Countries, they must invest in women and support their passion, because the future we build with them will be stronger and more prosperous. 

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets UN Official

Source: Government of Qatar

Awaza, August 07 

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Dr. Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met with HE United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States Rabab Fatima. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, being held in Awaza, Turkmenistan.

The meeting dealt with discussing the strong partnership between the State of Qatar and the Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries,آ Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States.

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Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets President of UN Economic and Social Council

Source: Government of Qatar

Ashgabat, August 07 

HE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Mariam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad, met with HE President of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), Lok Bahadur Thapa, on the sidelines of the UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, currently taking place in Awaza, Turkmenistan.

The meeting reviewed avenues of cooperation between the State of Qatar and ECOSOC, highlighted Qatar’s leading role in supporting developing countries, and discussed preparations for Qatar’s hosting of the Second World Summit for Social Development, scheduled for November.

The two sides affirmed that the upcoming summit will serve as a valuable opportunity to review various mechanisms and benefit from the experiences of developing countries that have made notable progress in social development.

During the meeting, HE Minister of State for International Cooperation reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to remaining a strategic partner to the United Nations in addressing developmental challenges.

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South Africa: Presidency statement on National Dialogue costs

Source: APO


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The Presidency has noted media reports on the cost of the National Dialogue and specifically the first National Convention set to take place on 15-16 August 2025. 

The Presidency wishes to confirm that all budgetary processes regarding the National Convention are consistent with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

The Inter-Ministerial Committee, which is chaired by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and comprises all relevant government departments to coordinate government’s contribution towards the National Dialogue, has been working to mobilise resources for the convention and manage costs. 

As a response to the call for collaboration with other stakeholders to reduce the costs of the National Dialogue, UNISA has offered to host the first National Convention and provide associated goods and services free of charge.

As it stands, venues have been secured for the plenary, two overflow venues with livestreaming, 10 breakaway venues, dining area and work areas. In addition, UNISA is providing facilities for an Operations Centre, which has been running over the past week, catering, ushers, AV services, printing of discussion documents, signage, conference bags, notepads, pens and WiFi. 

The costs of the first convention are being funded from the existing budgets of NEDLAC and the Presidency for secretariat support, communications and logistics. The provisions in the Appropriation Act and the PFMA will be used to reimburse the Department of Employment and Labour and NEDLAC in the Adjustments Budget later this year.

All procurement and management of public funds will adhere to the PFMA and applicable Treasury Regulations. All funds will be accounted for through the normal public finance mechanisms.

Donations have been received for the National Dialogue digital platform. Some goods and services, such as the venue, screens for public viewing, and rail and road transport, are being provided at no cost. 

The reduced costs associated with the hosting of the National Dialogue and the funding plan are done with the intention to reduce the cost to the fiscus.

The Presidency is committed to supporting the first National Convention to kick-start the citizen-led and inclusive National Dialogue.

The total budget for the National Dialogue will be developed as the structure and form of the community dialogues are finalised by the Convention, and will depend on in-kind contributions, donations and other resources that can be mobilised. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa.

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African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights Statement on the Occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples 9 August 2025

Source: APO


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The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) joins the international community in commemorating the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, observed annually on 9 August.

This year’s theme, “Indigenous Peoples and AI: Defending Rights, Shaping Futures”, invites renewed reflection on the intersection of technology, human rights, and the self-determination of Indigenous communities. While artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies hold the potential to advance development, they also pose new challenges to the protection of traditional knowledge, cultural heritage, land rights, and privacy.

In Africa, Indigenous populations and communities remain integral custodians of biodiversity, guardians of ancestral lands, and bearers of unique cultural identities. Yet, many continue to face systemic discrimination, marginalization, displacement, and the erosion of their cultural and linguistic heritage. The African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights guarantees the right to equality, non-discrimination, cultural participation, and self-determination, and that these rights extend fully to Indigenous peoples.

The Commission underscores the importance of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) in any initiatives affecting Indigenous peoples, including the use of their knowledge, data, and resources in technological systems. AI systems should not exploit Indigenous knowledge Systems (IKS) without compensation. AI should not perpetuate historical injustices or replicate discriminatory patterns; rather, they should be designed and governed in ways that reflect Indigenous worldviews and safeguard their rights. Meaningful participation of Indigenous Peoples in policy-making and in the design of technological systems is essential

On this Day, the ACHPR:

1. Calls upon State Parties to the African Charter to adopt and implement robust legal, policy, and institutional frameworks to protect the rights of Indigenous populations and communities, including in the digital sphere. States are encouraged to develop national AI strategies that are inclusive of IKSs as well as Indigenous perspectives and uphold data sovereignty.

2. Urges technology developers and private sector actors to respect Indigenous data sovereignty, avoid exploitative practices, and engage in genuine partnership with affected communities.

3. Encourages civil society, academia, and the media to promote awareness, foster dialogue, and amplify the voices of Indigenous peoples in shaping technological futures.

4. Reaffirms its commitment to monitor, report, and advocate for the full realization of Indigenous peoples’ rights, including through its Working Group and other special mechanisms, in conformity with the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

As the world moves deeper into the digital era, the ACHPR emphasizes that the survival and flourishing of Indigenous peoples in Africa depends on State Parties collective commitment to Indigenous People’s Rights, justice, equity, and respect for their environmental custodian role and rights both off and online, today and for generations to come.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR).

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Presidency clarifies costs associated with National Convention

Source: Government of South Africa

The Presidency has moved to clarify the costs associated with upcoming National Dialogue Convention, scheduled to start on 15 August 2025.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Presidency confirmed that all budgetary processes for the National Convention are in accordance with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA). 

They have also committed to ensuring that all procurement and management of public funds will comply with the law and the relevant Treasury regulations.

This follows media reports on the expenses of the National Dialogue, particularly the first National Convention.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Saturday that the first National Convention will proceed as planned this week, despite the challenges and calls for its postponement. 

The Presidency has announced that the Inter-Ministerial Committee, chaired by Deputy President Paul Mashatile and including all relevant government departments, is coordinating the government’s contributions to the National Dialogue. 

The committee has been working to mobilise resources for the convention and manage associated costs.

In response to the call for collaboration with various stakeholders to lower the costs of the National Dialogue, the President’s Office announced that the University of South Africa (UNISA) has offered to host the first National Convention and provide related goods and services at no cost.

“As it stands, venues have been secured for the plenary, two overflow venues with livestreaming, 10 breakaway venues, a dining area and work areas. 

“In addition, UNISA is providing facilities for an operations centre, which has been running over the past week, catering, ushers, AV services, printing of discussion documents, signage, conference bags, notepads, pens and Wi-Fi,” the Presidency said. 

The Presidency said the costs of the first convention are being funded from the existing budgets of the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC) and the Presidency for secretariat support, communications and logistics. 

“The provisions in the Appropriation Act and the PFMA will be used to reimburse the Department of Employment and Labour and NEDLAC in the adjustments budget later this year.

“All procurement and management of public funds will adhere to the PFMA and applicable Treasury regulations. All funds will be accounted for through the normal public finance mechanisms.” 

According to the Presidency, donations have been received for the National Dialogue digital platform. 

“Some goods and services, such as the venue, screens for public viewing, and rail and road transport, are being provided at no cost. The reduced costs associated with the hosting of the National Dialogue, and the funding plan are done to reduce the cost to the fiscus.” 

The Presidency said it was committed to supporting the first National Convention to kick-start the citizen-led and inclusive National Dialogue.

“The total budget for the National Dialogue will be developed as the structure and form of the community dialogues are finalised by the convention, and will depend on in-kind contributions, donations and other resources that can be mobilised.” 

The National Convention will bring together 200 organisations from 33 different sectors to kickstart the National Dialogue process.

Delegates are expected to advocate for the importance and benefits of a National Dialogue, outline key discussion themes, agree on the approach and methods for public dialogues, and finalise the establishment of a broadly representative Steering Committee to coordinate the implementation of the National Dialogue moving forward.

on Saturday, President Ramaphosa stated through his Office that the National Convention must occur so South Africans can take ownership and control of the National Dialogue.

“Invitations have gone out to organisations across the country, and delegates are preparing themselves to attend the convention.

“It is at the National Convention that the people of South Africa will take over and run with the National Dialogue process,” the President said, adding that he understood the National Convention to be a call to action for citizens to lead an inclusive dialogue on the challenges facing the country. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Acting Police Minister extends condolences to fallen officers’ families

Source: Government of South Africa

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Acting Minister of Police, Professor Firoz Cachalia, has extended his condolences to the families of police officers who were shot and killed on Friday, when escorting an awaiting trial prisoner.

Cachalia visited the families of Warrant Officer Vuyisile Sintwa (51) and Sergeant Simon Masenye (45) on Sunday.

The officers were escorting an awaiting trial prisoner, Jabulani Moyo, when they were ambushed in the Roodepoort town centre. Moyo remains at large, and a massive manhunt is underway.

During his visit to the families of the fallen officers, the Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences and assured the bereaved families that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will work to ensure that Moyo is located and held accountable for his actions.

The Minister also took the time to extend his sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni from Mpumalanga, who was killed on Saturday, while responding to a burglary incident in Schoemansdal near Komatipoort.

In his call for heightened vigilance, Cachalia said these senseless acts of violence against men and women in blue are an attack on the rule of law and the safety of all South Africans. 

“We strongly condemn these heinous crimes, and we will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice. We call on all SAPS members to always remain alert and to make full and appropriate use of the tools of trade issued to them,” he said. 

Police have offered a cash reward of R150 000 for anyone who has information on Moyo’s whereabouts, warning that he is dangerous and should not be approached. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Gender Commission welcomes conviction of serial rapist pastor

Source: Government of South Africa

The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of a serial rapist pastor in a harrowing case involving the sexual abuse of 12 minor children, including 10 boys and two girls, aged between seven and 14. 

The sentence was handed down by the Nquthu Regional Magistrate’s Court on 23 July 2025.

According to the CGE, the 59-year-old was convicted and sentenced to 10 life imprisonment terms for nine counts of rape and one count of attempted rape, seven five-year terms for seven counts of sexual assault, and seven five-year terms for exposure of a child to pornography between 2020 and 2022. 

The CGE also noted that the court did not deviate from the mandatory life sentences prescribed by the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997 for rape where the victims are under the age of 18. 

“This decision affirms the seriousness with which our courts ought to treat crimes of this nature, particularly against minor children. The Commission welcomes this outcome, which sends a clear message that such heinous crimes will be met with the full wrath of the law. 

“It is hoped that this judgment will serve not only as justice for the victims, but also as a deterrent to potential offenders,” the Commission said in a statement. 

The CGE stated that it has conducted an own-initiative investigation related to this issue. 

This action aligns with its constitutional and legislative mandate to monitor matters of gender-based violence (GBV), promote accountability, and protect the rights of vulnerable and marginalised groups, specifically the minor children involved in this case.

“The matter required the coordination of multiple stakeholders in the criminal justice system and involved complex logistical and procedural challenges.” 

According to the CGE, the accused pastor lured children to his rented premises under the pretense that they were helping him with tasks and under the guise of offering spiritual or pastoral guidance, where the abuse took place. 

“He used his position of authority and trust within the community to manipulate and groom the children, exploiting their respect for religious and adult figures. 

“The Commission remains deeply concerned by the abuse of trust and authority within religious and community spaces.” 

This outcome is consistent with the key findings from the Commission’s KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Office during its investigation in the financial year 2024/25. 

The investigation focused on the implementation of Pillar 3 of the National Strategic Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (NSP-GBVF), which emphasises access to justice, safety and protection, and effective coordination.

“As part of the investigation, the Commission engaged with key role players, including the SAPS, NPA, and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, to assess the implementation of the pillar, including collaboration.” 

The Commission believes that this successful prosecution of this case demonstrates the importance and practical value of sustained interagency cooperation in ensuring accountability, promoting victim-centred justice, and removing systemic barriers to justice for victims of gender-based violence and child abuse.

Life imprisonment for self-proclaimed prophets

Meanwhile, the CGE said it has also noted with grave concern the recent arrests and sentencing of self-proclaimed prophets and pastors in Limpopo, Free State, and North West. 

This includes life imprisonment of Pastor Albert Tamasane on two counts for raping an 11-year-old girl, and three life sentences handed to Fezile Zozi in North West for raping women and minors between 2021 and 2023, under the disguise of spiritual revivals. 

In addition, Confidence Monyela of Limpopo was convicted on two counts of raping minors between the ages of 14 and 19, bringing into the spotlight the systemic issues that confront those who trust some men of the cloth.

“It raises fundamental questions about the abuse and sexual exploitation of women and minors at the hands of self-proclaimed prophets and pastors, taking into cognisance that some are still going on trial.

“These matters underscore the urgent need for child safeguarding mechanisms in all institutions, particularly those led by individuals in positions of trust,” the Commission added. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Strengthening relations between the two brotherly countries… the preparatory work begins for the 33rd session of the Egyptian-Jordanian Joint Committee at the experts’ level, chaired by the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation

Source: APO


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Today, Sunday, in the Jordanian capital of Amman, preparations began for the 33rd session of the Egyptian-Jordanian Joint Committee at the experts’ level commenced, which is being held at a highly significant time on the regional level and in light of ongoing economic and geopolitical challenges, as the two brotherly countries seek to achieve further progress in their bilateral relations, especially on the economic front.

The preparatory work at the expert level is a prelude to holding ministerial preparatory meetings, chaired by H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, on the Egyptian side, and Eng. Yarub Falah Al-Qudah, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply, on the Jordanian side. This will be followed by the convening of the Joint Higher Committee, co-chaired by H.E. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister, and his counterpart Dr. Jaafar Hassan, Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, affirmed that the Egyptian-Jordanian Joint Committee, in its 33rd session, is being held at its regular schedule to emphasize the strength and depth of the relations between the two brotherly countries, and the keenness of the governments of both countries to move forward in achieving tangible and continuous progress in joint relations across various levels, which will reflect on strengthening economic relations, enhancing trade exchange, and overcoming challenges that may arise in any area of joint work files.

The Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation pointed out the importance of the regular convening of the Egyptian-Jordanian Joint Committee, which is one of the oldest and most consistently held Arab joint committees. Since the committee’s first session in 1985 up to the previous session, more than 173 joint cooperation documents have been signed across all priority areas, including economic, trade, investment, cultural, scientific, and technical fields, which has contributed to advancing bilateral cooperation between the two countries in priority sectors, increasing trade and investment rates, and facilitating the exchange of expertise.

H.E. Dr. Al-Mashat added that the 33rd session of the Joint Committee will discuss many topics of mutual interest to both countries, especially in light of the surrounding regional developments, reflecting the keenness to exploring further avenues for joint cooperation in trade, economic, and investment fields, as well as developing relations in the field of small and medium-sized enterprises, food security, discussing the situation of Egyptian labor in Jordan, the continuation of efforts for expertise exchange and joint training, following up on the convening of technical committees, and other topics and areas.

It is worth noting that the mechanism of joint committees is one of the main mechanisms through which Egypt seeks to strengthen economic, trade, and investment relations, in addition to cultural, scientific, and technical cooperation with brotherly and friendly countries. The Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation oversees approximately 55 joint committees between Egypt and various countries across different continents around the world.

During 2024, the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation held meetings of the Egyptian-Romanian Joint Committee, the Egyptian-Jordanian Joint Committee, the Egyptian-Tajik Ministerial Joint Committee, the first session of the Egyptian-Polish Joint Committee, and the Egyptian-Uzbek Joint Committee. More recently, in 2025, the first session of the Egyptian-Swiss Joint Committee was held.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation – Egypt.