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Call for nominations for Presidential Climate Commission

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 8, 2025

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for nominations for Commissioners to serve on the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC).

The term of office of the current commissioners expires at the end of this year.

In a statement, the Presidency described the PCC as an advisory body “established to facilitate social dialogue and provide advice on South Africa’s response and development pathways, which ensures a just transition to a low-emissions, climate-resilient economy and society, and national transformation goals”.

“The primary object of the Commission is to enable and inspire an action-oriented process towards a long-term just transition. 

“In doing its work, the Commission must meaningfully and effectively engage in an inclusive and transparent public participation process and make recommendations informed by the best available science and the principles of a just transition,” the Presidency said on Friday.

Nomination process details and nomination forms can be accessed on The Presidency Website as follows:
Call for nominations: https://tinyurl.com/w8dvh8jf 
Nomination form: https://tinyurl.com/2ydhsye4

Sections 10(4)(a) and 12(1)(a) of the Climate Change Act, 2024 (Act No. 22 of 2024) of the Constitution empowers the President to appoint commissioners following public nominations.

“The Chairperson of the Commission is the President, and he appoints the Commissioners for a five-year term, from among eligible fit and proper persons, with relevant experience in climate change, environmental policy, sustainable development, economic development, energy, or social justice and representative of broader sections and interests of our society.  

“President Ramaphosa calls on South Africans, social partners and communities to seize this opportunity and nominate the best among themselves to ensure that their interests and voices are not left out of this crucial journey as we transition to an inclusive and sustainable economy and society that is fair and just,” the statement concluded. – SAnews.gov.za

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Creecy announces interim RAF board appointment

Source: Government of South Africa

The Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, has announced the appointment of an Interim Board for the Road Accident Fund (RAF) for a period of six months, or until a new board is appointed or whichever comes first. 

Last month, the board was dissolved due to persistent governance and operational challenges that beset the fund and significantly undermined its ability to discharge its statutory mandate.

“Some of you will recall that the previous board was dissolved on 15 July 2025, due to its failure to act in the best interests of the entity and to fulfil its fiduciary duties. 

“It therefore became urgent and necessary to close the governance vacuum in the RAF leadership. It is for this reason that Cabinet has approved the appointment of an Interim Board,” the Minister said on Friday in Pretoria at a media briefing.

The Interim Board will provide strategic direction to the entity and enable it to deliver on its mandate. It will also help ensure financial and governance stability of the RAF.

The RAF is responsible for providing​ appropriate cover to all road users within the borders of South Africa; rehabilitating and compensating persons injured as a result of motor vehicles in a timely and caring manner; and actively promoting the safe use of all South African roads.

“The Interim Board must help address deficiencies in governance and control systems, including frequent incurrences of default judgments against the RAF.

“The interim Board will have to initiate a process of filling executive positions that are critical to the mandate of the Fund. It will also cooperate with the current and future Special Investigating Unit (SIU) investigations.

“As the Ministry, we have already established a panel of independent experts to advise the shareholder and the board on the views of RAF stakeholders on how to develop a sustainable RAF operational and governance model, and to review the RAF’s business processes and propose actionable recommendations,” Creecy said.

The Department of Transport will also continue to pursue all necessary measures to restore institutional stability and enhance the RAF’s capacity to fulfil its statutory obligations to the public by finalising the Road Accident Benefit Scheme Bill.

The bill proposes legislation in South Africa aimed at overhauling the current Road Accident Fund (RAF) system. It intends to introduce a new no-fault based comprehensive social security scheme that would allow for expanded access to benefits for all road users.

The interim board Chairperson is Kenneth Brown and Nonhlanhla Mabusela-Aikhuere is the Vice-Chairperson. Other interim board members are as follows:

  • Ntswaki Kutumela,
  • Innocentia Mmule Pule,
  • Richard Dyantyi,
  • Mpontshane Alfred Mkhipheni,
  • Alfredina (Ntina) Themba, and
  • Neeshan Balton.

South African Airways 

Cabinet has also approved the appointment of the Board of Directors for the South African Airways (SAA). 

The Chairperson is Sedzani Faith Mudau who is a Chartered Accountant by profession and former SAA employee. 

The Deputy Chairperson is Fathima Gany who served on the Interim Board which has just completed its term.  

Other board members are the following:

  • Theunis Potgieter.
  • Mongezi India.
  • Dennis Dlomo.
  • Pamela Bulelwa Yako.
  • Bongiwe Pityi.
  • Dr Salome Chiloane-Nwabueza.
  • Dr Prittish Dala.
  • Lisa Mangcu.
  • Bongiwe Mbomvu.
  • Siphumelele Dlungwane.
  • Advocate Johannes Collen Weapond.

“This team of men and women have collective experience in aviation, air services and airport administration; business, logistics and commercial operations; governance and public policy, law, tourism, security and financial administration and public accounts. 

“The new board will lead an entity that is currently focused on stabilizing its operating model following a return to profitability over the last two years. 

“The board will bolster SAA’s governance processes by improving responses to audit findings and ensuring that the airline’s financial independence is maintained,” the Minister said.

The Minister thanked the outgoing interim Board who led SAA from business-rescue exit in 2021 to becoming a stable flag carrier, operating seventeen routes, including three intercontinental city-pairs.

“We trust that the new board will use the debt-free balance sheet and ring-fenced liquidity to ensure a fleet expansion plan which lifts the SAA capacity from twenty to fifty-plus aircraft by 2030.

“To do this the shareholder expect the new board to embark on a capital-raising programme, supported by internally generated cash, operating leases and market funding, which enables fleet modernisation without new sovereign guarantees,” the Minister said. –SAnews.gov.za

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The Coca-Cola Company Names New Leader for Africa Operating Unit

Source: APO


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The Coca-Cola Company (www.Coca-ColaCompany.com) today announced that Luis Felipe Avellar will become president of the Africa operating unit effective Sept. 1.

Avellar currently serves as president of the company’s Mexico operations, which are part of the Latin America operating unit. Avellar will succeed Luisa Ortega, who, as previously announced, is taking a new role as president of the company’s Europe operating unit.

Avellar will report to Coca-Cola Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun.

“Luis has had an outstanding career that has included extensive leadership roles in our Latin America operations,” Braun said. “Luis also has experience working for our company in Africa, and I’m excited to see him return to Johannesburg to build on the system’s ongoing work to serve the growing African market.”

About Luis Felipe Avellar

Avellar, 49, started his career at Coca-Cola in 2002 as a finance specialist in Brazil. He went on to serve in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility in Brazil before being named general manager of the Brazil South Region in 2016.

In 2019, he took a new role as vice president and general manager for Southern Africa, based in Johannesburg. Two years later, he returned to Latin America to serve as president of Brazil and South Cone operations. He was named to his current role in Mexico in 2023.

Avellar began his career in 1998 in the finance function with SC Johnson in Brazil.

Avellar earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro. He later earned an executive MBA in finance from the same university. Most recently, he completed the Advanced Management Program at IESE Business School in Spain.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Coca-Cola.

Contacts:
Investors and Analysts:
Robin Halpern, 
koinvestorrelations@coca-cola.com          

Media:
Wendy Thole-Muir, 
wtholemuir@coca-cola.com

About The Coca-Cola Company:
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca-Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.Coca-ColaCompany.com and follow us on Instagram (http://apo-opa.co/3UVsc8Y), Facebook (http://apo-opa.co/45HvanS) and LinkedIn (http://apo-opa.co/41jjEN9).

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Kenya certified for elimination of human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness)

Source: APO


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The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Kenya as having eliminated human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness as a public health problem, making it the tenth country to reach this important milestone. HAT is the second neglected tropical disease (NTD) to be eliminated in Kenya: the country was certified free of Guinea worm disease in 2018.

“I congratulate the government and people of Kenya on this landmark achievement,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Kenya joins the growing ranks of countries freeing their populations of human African trypanosomiasis. This is another step towards making Africa free of neglected tropical diseases”.

HAT a vector-borne disease caused by the blood parasite Trypanosoma brucei. It is transmitted to humans through the bites of tsetse flies that have acquired the parasites from infected humans or animals. Rural populations dependent on agriculture, fishing, animal husbandry or hunting are most at risk of exposure.

As the name indicates, HAT is transmitted only on the African continent. The disease exists in two forms, gambiense and rhodesiense. The rhodesiense form, which is found in eastern and southern Africa, is the only one present in Kenya. It is caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense (r-HAT) and progresses rapidly invading multiple organs including the brain. Without treatment, it is fatal within weeks.

Kenya’s progress

“This validation marks a major public health milestone for Kenya, as we celebrate the elimination of a deadly disease in our country. The achievement will not only protect our people but also pave the way for renewed economic growth and prosperity,” said Dr Aden Duale, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health. “This follows many years of dedication, hard work and collaboration”.

The first cases of HAT in Kenya were detected in the early 20 century. Since then, Kenya has engaged in consistent control activities, without indigenous new cases reported for over 10 years. The last autochthonous case was detected in 2009, and the last two exported cases, infected in the Masai Mara National Reserve, were detected in 2012.

Recently, Kenya strengthened HAT surveillance in 12 health facilities in six historically endemic counties to act as sentinel sites. They were equipped with diagnostic tools and had their clinical personnel trained on diagnostic procedures, including the most sensitive and practical tests for r-HAT. The country also actively monitors the control and surveillance of tsetse flies and animal trypanosomiasis, both within and beyond the historical HAT endemic areas, supported by the national veterinary health authorities and the Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council (KENTTEC). These activities and the related data provide supplementary backing to the claim of HAT elimination as a public health problem.

“This key milestone reflects Kenya’s efforts and commitment over many years, as a collaboration between national and county governments, national research institutions, development partners and affected communities,” said Dr Patrick Amoth, EBS, Director General Health, Ministry of Health, Kenya. “The country remains fully committed to sustain the quality of care and surveillance in line with WHO’s recommendations”.

Supported by WHO and partners, including FIND, Kenya’s HAT elimination programme will now implement a post-validation surveillance plan to detect any potential resurgence or reintroduction of transmission. WHO continues to support ongoing monitoring in previously affected areas and maintains a stock of medicines to ensure rapid treatment of possible future cases, thanks to donations from Bayer AG and Sanofi.

“This success was made possible by the Ministry of Health’s leadership, the dedication of health workers in areas at risk and the support from key partners,” said Dr Abdourahmane Diallo, WHO Representative to Kenya. “WHO is proud to have contributed to this achievement and encourages all stakeholders to remain involved in post-validation monitoring”.

Progress in global HAT elimination

A total of 57 countries have eliminated at least one NTD. Of these, 10 (including Kenya) have successfully eliminated HAT as a public health problem. The other countries that have reached this milestone are Benin, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Guinea, Rwanda, Togo and Uganda.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization – Kenya.

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Nigerian Government, World Health Organization (WHO) and partners Strengthen Cholera Preparedness nationwide

Source: APO


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Abuja, Strengthening Frontline Capacity Nationwide

In response to a surge in cholera cases during the 2025 rainy season, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with UNICEF, WaterAid, and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), have launched an initiative to strengthen cholera preparedness and response.

Over 150 frontline health workers from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory have been trained to improve early detection, reporting, and treatment of cholera. To ensure impact at the community level, state governments have cascaded these trainings to high-risk areas. In Bauchi State, with support from WaterAid, 40 community-level health workers across 12 high-burden LGAs received targeted training to enhance local response capacity.

“I feel better equipped now to detect cholera symptoms early and take immediate action,” said Yushau Muktari, a Disease Surveillance Officer in Bauchi. “This training will help us save lives.”

Cholera Cases Surge Amid Rainy Season

As of 28 July, Nigeria has recorded 4,700 cholera cases and 113 deaths (CFR: 2.4%), with outbreaks concentrated in flood-affected and displaced communities 

Coordinated Action from Government and Partners

“We’re not just responding to outbreaks—we’re building systems to prevent the next one,” said Dr Jide Idris, Director General of NCDC. “With WHO’s support and donor contributions, we’re enhancing Nigeria’s ability to prepare for and respond to cholera more effectively.”

WHO’s Targeted Support Across States

WHO’s support includes:
•    Pre-positioning cholera kits
•    Strengthening surveillance systems
•    Deploying rapid response teams
•    Providing technical support in Zamfara, Adamawa, and Niger states
•    Donating 7 cholera test kits and medical supplies for 200 patients
•    Supplying 10,000 sachets of oral rehydration salts for community treatment

“Every cholera death is preventable,” said Ann Fortin, WHO Emergency Preparedness Response Lead in Nigeria. “To save lives, we must act faster—supporting health workers, improving coordination, and ensuring supplies reach those in need.”

A Roadmap to End Cholera by 2030

WHO emphasizes the need for a multi-sectoral, whole-of-government approach aligned with the Global Roadmap to End Cholera by 2030. This includes investing in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), strengthening primary healthcare, and securing political and financial commitment.

Building Resilience Amid Climate Risks

“The risk of widespread outbreaks is real, especially as climate shocks intensify,” said Dr Alex Gasasira, Acting WHO Country Representative in Nigeria. “Thanks to the Government of Japan’s timely support, Nigeria is better positioned to protect its most vulnerable.”

WHO remains committed to supporting Nigeria in achieving its cholera control targets and safeguarding public health.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Nigeria.

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President Ramkalawan Inaugurates New Motorable Access Road at Dan Lafous, Anse Royale

Source: APO


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President Wavel Ramkalawan, joined by Minister for Transport Antony Derjacques, officially inaugurated a new motorable access road at “Dan Lafous” Mont Plaisir, Anse Royale on Friday morning.

The SCR 3.9 million project, executed by Dubai Civil Engineering and Construction, addresses a longstanding need expressed by the local community for safer and more reliable vehicular access to the “Dan Lafous” area. The initiative gained significant momentum following President Ramkalawan visits to the community in 2023, where he engaged directly with residents about their transportation challenges.

The newly constructed road spans 165 metres in length and 5 metres in width, representing a significant engineering achievement given the challenging topographical conditions of the area. To enhance safety and security for road users, twelve streetlights have been installed along the access route, providing essential illumination for the community.

In his opening address, Minister Derjacques emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring no community is left behind, regardless of geographical challenges. He praised the technical excellence demonstrated in overcoming the project’s complexities while maintaining budgetary discipline and achieving high construction standards.

Addressing the gathering, President Ramkalawan commended the exceptional work carried out to make the access road possible for residents. He urged other communities to assist in facilitating easement access within their neighborhoods to enable further development and foster better community living.

The ceremony’s highlight was the ribbon-cutting ceremony officially inaugurating the opening of the access road.

The completion of the “Dan Lafous” road represents a tangible demonstration of the government’s responsiveness to community needs and its dedication to improving infrastructure connectivity across all districts.

Also in attendance were Vice President Ahmed Afif, Honourable Member for Anse Royale district Sylvanne Lemiel, Honourable Member for Cascade district Philip Monthy, Proportional Member in the National Assembly Gerard Bijoux, Principal Secretary for the Department of Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine David Bianchi, Chief Executive SLTA Parinda Herath, District Administrator Anse Royale Cynthia Harriba, Ministry of Transport and SLTA staff, representatives of Dubai Civil Engineering and Construction, Dan Lafous area residents, and invited guests.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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President Ramkalawan Congratulates Seychellois Swimming Sensation Angelina Smythe

Source: APO


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The President of Seychelles, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan on Friday morning welcomed to State House Seychellois swimming sensation Ms. Angelina Smythe, following her outstanding performance during the 13th Jeux de la Commission de la Jeunesse et des Sports de l’Océan Indien (CJSOI) being held in Seychelles.

The 16-year-old Seychellois athlete delivered an exceptional performance in the pool, clinching an impressive tally of 5 Gold, 4 Silver, and 2 Bronze medals, making her the top medalist for the Seychelles’ swimming team with a total of 11 medals. 

President Ramkalawan extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Smythe, commending her dedication, discipline, and commitment to excellence. “Angelina, your remarkable achievements have brought immense pride to Seychelles. You have shown that with determination and hard work, our young athletes can shine brightly on the international stage,” the President said.

The Head of State further assured Ms. Smythe of the full support and encouragement of the Government of Seychelles as she continues to represent the nation in upcoming competitions. He wished her every success in her sporting career, urging her to keep inspiring fellow Seychellois youths.

“Seychelles is proud of you, Angelina. You carry our flag high, and the entire nation stands behind you,” President Ramkalawan added.

Also present for the meeting was the Minister for Youth, Family and Sports, Mrs Marie-Celine Zialor and Mrs Annalisa Smythe, Angelina’s mother.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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DWS to keep Vaal Dam overflowing to bolster drought readiness

Source: Government of South Africa

In a strategic move to prepare for potential drought, the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has announced it plans to keep the Vaal Dam full until the start of the summer rainy season.

This comes as the South African Weather Services (SAWS) predicts that the central parts of the country will receive normal to below-normal rainfall.  

“While above-normal rainfall is expected in the southwestern and coastal areas, DWS is ensuring that water storage remains high in key dams like the Vaal and Bloemhof to prepare for any potential water shortages,” the department said.

In its weekly assessment, the department reported a slight decline in the Vaal Dam’s water level, with the current reading shows the dam at 106.3% capacity, a minor decrease from 106.5% the previous week.

The department noted that since the resumption of normal operations, the overall storage level has been gradually decreasing due to ongoing water usage across the system and natural evaporation.  

“The Vaal Dam, a key component of the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), continues to play a vital role in ensuring reliable water supply to Gauteng and the Free State. It is presently storing approximately 2.57 billion cubic metres of water, well above its designated full supply volume, underscoring the system’s resilience and ability to meet regional demand.

“The sustained high-water levels across the Vaal Dam and other reservoirs are reflective of the above-normal rainfall earlier in the year, and additionally, the effective water resource management during this low-flow season under normal dam operations. This strategic water management framework ensures consistent storage capacity across the IVRS, reinforcing the region’s ability to meet ongoing water demands,” the department said. 
The IVRS continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining the Vaal Dam’s supply by regulating inflows and supporting optimal storage levels.

As the backbone of water security for Gauteng and surrounding provinces, the system is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of variable climate conditions and growing demand.

According to the latest data, the IVRS is operating at a healthy 101.0%, reflecting only a slight dip from the previous reading of 101.2%. This minimal change indicates continued stability and resilience in the system’s performance.

The department said the reservoirs within the IVRS remain at elevated levels, with the Grootdraai Dam’s level held steady at 99.4% for the past week, while the Sterkfontein Dam, which serves as a crucial reserve for the Vaal Dam, saw a minor decrease to 99.3%, down from 99.4% last week.  

The Bloemhof Dam has experienced a modest increase over the past week, rising from 108.8% to 109.2%, but overall, it has been reducing since May, when normal operations resumed.

“The dam will also be kept at above 100% full supply capacity and will constantly be monitored. This time last year, Bloemhof Dam was at around 91%,” the department said.

Beyond South Africa’s borders, the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a key contributor to the IVRS, has shown mixed results. The Katse Dam recorded a decline in water levels, dropping from 91.5% to 90.6%.

Conversely, the Mohale Dam experienced only a slight decrease from 102.2% to 101.2%, which signals continued stability in the cross-border water supply scheme.

The department continues to monitor dam levels closely and urged the public to continue using water responsibly, despite the current abundance.

“Efficient water use remains vital in sustaining long-term water security amid the increasing pressures of climate change and urban demand.” – SAnews.gov.za
 

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‘Experienced’ Mogorosi appointed as acting HOD of Gauteng Community Safety

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, August 8, 2025

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has appointed Roche Mogorosi as acting Head of Department (HOD) for the provincial Community Safety Department.

Current HOD Nontsikelelo Sisulu and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Mduduzi Malope were placed on immediate suspension earlier this week, following the conclusion of a forensic investigation, which uncovered alleged financial irregularities in the department.

READ | Gauteng Community Safety HOD, CFO suspended

“We are committed to restoring public trust and strengthening governance. Mogorosi has the expertise to lead the department with integrity, as we work to ensure accountability and continued service delivery to the people of Gauteng,” Lesufi said.

The Gauteng Provincial Government noted that Mogorosi brings experience to the post.

“Mogorosi brings extensive experience in public administration spanning governance, public participation, human resources, and strategic programme management. His appointment will ensure continuity of leadership and stability within the department.

“Before his appointment, Mogorosi served as Chief Director of Schools Technology Support Services at the Gauteng Department of Education.

“He holds two Master’s degrees: a Master of Management in Governance from the Wits School of Governance and a Master of Business Administration from Tshwane University of Technology,” the GPG said. – SAnews.gov.za

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Ghana: Mahama announces ‘Evening of Reflections’ for departed 8

Source: APO


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“An Evening of Reflections and Memorials for the eight persons who lost their lives in Wednesday’s helicopter crash will be held at the forecourt of the State House on Saturday, 9th August.

The 5.00 pm programme will climax the three days of national mourning.

The state funeral, an inter-denominational service, will be on Thursday, 15th August at the Black Star Square.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Presidency, Republic of Ghana.