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Helicopter crash: President Mahama addresses nation; memorial service on Saturday

Source: APO


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President John Dramani Mahama, on behalf of the government and the people of Ghana, has expressed condolences to the families of eight cherished citizens of Ghana who died in the Air Force helicopter crash at Adansi Akrofuom in the Ashanti region on Tuesday, 6th August 2025.

He announced that a Board of Inquiry has been constituted to conduct transparent investigations into the cause of the tragedy.

“I want to assure the families and the nation that the Ghana Armed Forces has initiated a full and transparent investigation into the circumstances of this crash.”

President Mahama, who was addressing the nation on Thursday night, added that the government is in close touch with the bereaved families about DNA tests being conducted for identification of the bodies and final interment.

He announced that an evening of Reflections and Memorial will be held at the forecourt of the State House in honour of our departed men on Saturday.

The President also disclosed that an inter-denominational state funeral will be held for all eight heroes at the Black Star Square on 15th August.

Mr Mahama called for unity at this moment of national grief and prayers for the families of the deceased.

“This is not a me for division, speculation, or political point-scoring. It is a testament to the strength, empathy, and the enduring Ghanaian spirit that still stands tall when all else fails. Let our words be of comfort, our actions be of kindness, and our unity be the tribute we offer to those whose lives have been lost.”

He continued, “In this moment of national grief, let us remember that we are, above all, Ghanaians. Let us set aside our differences and offer our collective compassion to the bereaved families… This is not a me for division, speculation, or political point-scoring.”

Books of condolence will be opened simultaneously at the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, the National Democratic Congress headquarters, and the head office of NADMO, from Sunday, 10th August to Thursday, 14th August 2025.

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

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Decision to grant permission to Eskom to build new nuclear power station upheld

Source: Government of South Africa

After thorough consideration and consultation, the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has upheld the 2017 decision to grant Eskom Environmental Authorisation to construct and operate a new nuclear power station in Duynefontein, Western Cape.

The decision was upheld after appeals were made by various environmental organisations.

“In considering these appeals, I have carefully reviewed the Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAr), as well as the independent peer review conducted in respect of the project.

“In the end, my decision was made in respect of the principles of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), and with full appreciation of the environmental, social and economic considerations involved,” the Minister said on Friday.

The original decision to grant the Environmental Authorisation was made in October 2017.

Various appellants challenged the decision, submitting appeals that ranged from comprehensive and detailed submissions to shorter, individual objections. 

This week, the Minister has decided, in terms of section 43(6) of NEMA, to dismiss the appeals, and confirm the decision to grant the Environmental Authorisation to Eskom.

The Minister’s decision to uphold the Environmental Authorisation does not automatically grant Eskom permission to begin with the construction or operation of the nuclear power station. 

The entity is still required to obtain several additional statutory authorisations before proceeding in accordance with section 24(7) of NEMA. 

The authorisations include:

  • A Nuclear Installation Licence from the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR);
  • Approval from the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA);
  • Water use licences from the Department of Water and Sanitation, and
  • Any other relevant approvals, including those from the Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.

“As per section 24(7) of NEMA, the granting of an Environmental Authorisation does not exempt an applicant from complying with any other applicable legal requirements or obtaining permits from other competent authorities,” George said.

The Minister has emphasised that the protection and preservation of South Africa’s environment is a non-negotiable. 

“The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment supports South Africa’s transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future where inclusive growth, job creation and poverty reduction are central,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

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W Cape invests over R7m to strengthen local disaster response

Source: Government of South Africa

In a significant step towards enhancing disaster response and firefighting capabilities at the local level, the Western Cape Government officially handed over firefighting vehicles, essential equipment and a financial grant to the Overberg District Municipality.

Western Cape MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, handed over the firefighting equipment to the Overberg District during a ceremony held this week at the Bredasdorp Fire Station.

The handover forms part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting municipalities in fulfilling their constitutional mandate of disaster risk reduction, fire prevention, and emergency response.

Delivering the keynote address, Bredell said the investment in firefighting and disaster risk management is an important part of the provincial government’s response to climate change and population growth. 

“We need to be ready to respond to more severe floods, droughts and wildfires, and we need to be able to do this for a growing population, which elevates the risk profiles of these events,” he said. 

With its headquarters in Bredasdorp, the Overberg District Municipality governs four local municipalities of Cape Agulhas, Overstrand, Swellendam and Theewaterskloof.

The equipment includes firefighting vehicles (2 water tankers and 2 bakkies), portable firefighting equipment, protective gear for fire fighting personnel, communication and operational tools, and a financial grant allocation.

This strategic intervention will significantly bolster the district’s ability to respond effectively to fires and emergencies across its jurisdiction, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Bredell also acknowledged the crucial role private landowners play in the prevention and management of wildfires in the province. 

He said the provincial department is also supporting the Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association with R400 000 to do capacity building, as they play an invaluable role in firefighting.

During the 2024/25 fire season, the province provided R3.6 million to the Overberg District for aerial support during 23 fires, where ground teams were deployed at six of these fires.

“We are also planning the establishment of a 10-person provincial ground team in Bredasdorp to strengthen their ability to combat fires and keep residents safe.” 

Bredell said the equipment, together with the various support measures, totals support of R7.7 million for the Overberg District. 

“I want to thank the strong leadership and good management in place in the Overberg District, as this makes it easy for the province to provide support and invest in established services that are well run.”

He took the time to thank the men and women who work as firefighters. 

“It takes a special kind of person who runs towards danger when the rest of society tries to run away from it. Thank you for your brave work. This investment in equipment and training is also our contribution to your safety.” – SAnews.gov.za

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FIND Congratulates Kenya for Eliminating Human African Trypanosomiasis as a Public Health Problem

Source: APO

FIND (www.FINDdx.org) congratulates Kenya’s Ministry of Health (MoH) on today’s announcement by the World Health Organization (WHO) that Kenya has successfully eliminated human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), commonly known as “sleeping sickness” as a public health problem. 

“This is an incredible achievement and and is testimony to what can be accomplished through the investment and dedication of partners striving towards a common goal,” said Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, CEO and Chief Transformation Officer of FIND. “FIND is very proud of being an integral part of bringing diagnosis to all, a critical step in eliminating this deadly disease.” 

FIND has worked hand in hand with the MoH since 2020 to strengthen the country’s capacity for diagnosis and surveillance of HAT in the endemic regions of the country. Historically, diagnosing the disease and monitoring its spread – crucial steps for any elimination effort – have been a challenge, because many of the communities most vulnerable to HAT live in remote, rural settings. 

“Eliminating neglected tropical diseases is even more critical at this point in history, said FIND Board Chair Dr Ayoade Alakija, “as health financing in low- and middle-income countries becomes increasingly challenging and new models are being proposed. By their very definition, most diseases affecting the most vulnerable are “neglected”, thus the elimination of HAT is an important milestone and reflects what is possible when leaders in the private and public spheres deliver comprehensively on prevention, early diagnosis, and effective treatment.” 

Through FIND’s support, all health facilities in the HAT-endemic regions were mapped and the laboratory infrastructure was upgraded, which included the installation of appropriate diagnostic equipment in strategically located health facilities. All health workers (both clinicians and lab workers) were re-trained in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of HAT. This was supported by a campaign to raise awareness in communities, health care workers, and policymakers about HAT, its manifestation, and where to report for testing.  

Additionally, FIND strengthened the disease surveillance system and established a system for the collection and reporting of HAT surveillance data to the MoH and worked closely with the Ministry in the preparation and submission of the dossier on HAT elimination to WHO. 

Prof. Joseph Ndungu, Head of FIND’s Kenya office, said, “HAT causes tremendous suffering, typically in communities that are already vulnerable. Eliminating this deadly disease as a public health problem is an important victory, and FIND is gratified to have been able to support Kenya in their efforts through strengthening the country’s capacity and its surveillance systems.” 

HAT, also known as sleeping sickness, is a vector-borne disease caused by blood parasites (Trypanosoma brucei), transmitted to humans by bites of tsetse flies which have acquired the parasites from infected humans or animals. Rural populations which depend on agriculture, fishing, animal husbandry or hunting are the most exposed. Kenya is the 10th country to have successfully eliminated HAT as a public health problem. 

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, including Kenya, is caused by Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, and presents as an acute disease that develops rapidly with multi-organ invasion, including the brain. Without treatment, rhodesiense sleeping sickness is fatal within a few days or weeks. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of FIND.

For additional information: 
FIND’s work on neglected tropical diseases, including HAT: https://apo-opa.co/40ZcRb3
WHO fact sheet: https://apo-opa.co/45uM8od

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Merck Foundation and Nigeria First Lady meet to Build Healthcare Capacity, Support girl education and Break Infertility Stigma in Nigeria

Source: APO

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany underscored their commitment to build healthcare capacity, support girl education and break infertility stigma in Nigeria during their high-level meeting with H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The discussion was led by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej expressed, “It was a privilege to meet my dear sister H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and officially appoint her to be the Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother”. During our meeting, we discussed the beginning of our long-term partnership and underscored our commitment towards building healthcare capacity and transforming patient care landscape by providing scholarships for local Nigerian doctors in 42 critical and underserved specialties. We also discussed about addressing critical social and health issues in the country including breaking the infertility stigma and supporting girl education.”

“It gives me great pleasure to share that till today, 63 scholarships have been provided for doctors in Nigeria and affirm our commitment towards enhancing healthcare delivery by providing scholarships for local doctors in Nigeria.” Dr Rasha Kelej added.

H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Ambassador of “Merck Foundation More Than a Mother” expressed, “It is a pleasure to welcome and meet the Chairman and CEO of Merck Foundation in our country. I am truly pleased to learn about their impactful and highly beneficial programs, particularly Educating Linda program to support girl education and scholarship program for advancing healthcare capacity. It is encouraging to know that Merck Foundation has provided 63 scholarships to our local doctors in critical medical specialties. I am fully committed to scaling up all their programs to benefit our people.”

Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation BOT shared, “It was a great pleasure to meet H.E. Senator OLUREMI TINUBU, CON, The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to reinforce our shared commitment to advancing healthcare capacity in Nigeria and across Africa.

Our aim is to improve the overall health and wellbeing of people by building healthcare capacity across Africa, Asia and other developing countries. We are strongly committed to transforming patientcare landscape through our scholarships program. Till today, we have provided more than 2282 scholarships for young doctors from 53 countries in 44 critical and underserved specialties.”

Merck Foundation has provided 63 scholarships for Nigerian doctors, out of which 8 scholarships have been provided for Fertility, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, Biotechnology of Human Assisted Reproduction and Embryology and Women’s Health.

Moreover, 38 scholarships have been provided for Diabetes, Preventative Cardiovascular Medicine, Cardiology, Endocrinology and Obesity & Weight Management. After completion of the course, these doctors will be able to establish diabetes or hypertension clinics in their Health Centre or Hospital with the aim to help prevent and manage the disease in their own communities.

Additionally, 17 scholarships have been provided for other critical and underserved specialties like Oncology Research, Clinical Psychiatry, Dermatology in Clinical Practice, Pain Management, Respiratory Medicine, Care of the Older Person, Critical Care, Rheumatology, and more.

Moreover, As a part of their ‘Educating Linda’ program, Merck Foundation has also sponsored the education of 20 high performing but underprivileged Nigerian schoolgirls.

Merck Foundation has also conducted three edition of Online Health Media Training for the Nigerian journalists, to emphasize on the important role that media plays to influence society to create a cultural shift with the aim to address wide range of social and health issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Supporting Girl Education, Women Empowerment, Ending Child Marriage, Ending FGM, and/ or Stopping GBV at all levels; to underscore the importance of Empowering Girls and Women in Education and to understand the social and psychological impact of infertility stigma and other social issues like GBV, Child Marriage, FGM etc. over women and their families and communities.

Moreover, to raise awareness of early detection and prevention of Diabetes and Hypertension.

Merck Foundation in partnership with The First Lady of Nigeria has also launched their 8 important Merck Foundation Awards for Media, Musicians & Singers, Fashion Designers, Filmmakers, and students & new potential talents in these fields.

“I invite the young Nigerian talents to share their creative and inspiring work with us. We have celebrated many winners from Nigeria in the previous years and look forward to celebrating winners this year too,” concluded Senator Dr. Kelej.

Details of the Awards:

  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: Media representatives and media students are invited to showcase their work to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to raise awareness about one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “More Than a Mother” 2025: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to address one or more of the following social issues: Breaking Infertility Stigma and Women Empowerment. Submission deadline: 30th September 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Media Recognition Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: Media representatives are invited to showcase their work through strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Fashion Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: All Fashion Students and Designers are invited to create and share designs to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Film Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: All Filmmakers, Students of Film Making Training Institutions, or Young Talents of Africa are invited to create and share a long or short FILMS, either drama, documentary, or docudrama to deliver strong and influential messages to promote a healthy lifestyle, raise awareness about prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.
  1. Merck Foundation Song Awards “Diabetes & Hypertension” 2025: All Singers and Musical Artists are invited to create and share a SONG with the aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise awareness about the prevention and early detection of Diabetes and Hypertension. Submission deadline: 30th October 2025.

Entries for the above awards can be submitted to us at:
submit@merck-foundation.com

For information on the awards, please visit our website:
www.Merck-Foundation.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager 
Phone: +91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
Email: mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

Join the conversation on our social media platforms below and let your voice be heard:
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/45uQbRD
X: https://apo-opa.co/40VvmgA
YouTube: https://apo-opa.co/4lfhepT
Instagram: https://apo-opa.co/41rS4x0
Threads: https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFrU
Flickr: https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFYW
Website: www.Merck-Foundation.com
Download Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/4mEQ7pn

About Merck Foundation:
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality & equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare & scientific research capacity, empowering girls in education and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/45uQbRD), X (https://apo-opa.co/40VvmgA), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/41rS4x0), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4lfhepT), Threads (https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFrU) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/4m5iFYW).

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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Transnet, Hotazel Manganese Mines sign 10-year contract to secure transportation of manganese

Source: Government of South Africa

Transnet and Hotazel Manganese Mines (HMM), a joint venture operated by a wholly owned subsidiary of South32, have officially signed a 10-year contract to secure long-term rail and port manganese export capacity.

The contract was signed under the third phase of the Manganese Export Capacity Allocation (MECA3) framework.

The MECA3 agreement introduces a demand-led, multi-year capacity allocation model designed to enable improved planning, efficiency, and investment confidence across the manganese value chain, exporting manganese through critical channels, such as Saldahna and Ngqura to HMM’s global markets.

In a statement on Thursday, Transnet said the contract strengthens the collaborative partnership between the two organisations, and provides operational certainty for one of South Africa’s most established manganese producers.

HMM, located in the Kalahari Basin of the Northern Cape, has been a significant contributor to the global manganese supply chain for over four decades. HMM consists of two manganese mines located in the Kalahari Manganese Field in the Northern Cape province, namely Wessels and Mamatwan mines.

HMM and Transnet share a longstanding relationship stretching back to the 1970s, making rail an integral part of HMM’s logistics and export operations. Over the years, this partnership has evolved in support of growing volumes, infrastructure expansion, and South Africa’s broader export agenda.

“This agreement is a testament to the efficiency and reliability of our services. It also reflects our commitment to the mining sector, underpinned by reliable and predictable access to rail capacity for our manganese exporters.

“By securing dedicated rail and port capacity, the agreement provides HMM with the operational certainty needed to support its mining and export activities, which contribute to local jobs and the country’s economic prosperity,” Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said.

South32 HMM Vice President Operations Barry Bezuidenhout said securing long-term rail and port export capacity is vital for HMM to access international markets for its product.

“The signing of this agreement continues our position as a leading global supplier of manganese, as well as a major local employer in South Africa’s Northern Cape.

“We look forward to continuing our long standing mutually beneficial relationship with Transnet and working together to identify opportunities to grow rail logistics capacity in South Africa,” Bezuidenhout said. –SAnews.gov.za

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African universities urged to lead AI revolution 

Source: Government of South Africa

The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Nomalungelo Gina, has encouraged African universities to embrace the global digital revolution by becoming creators of artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation, rather than mere consumers. 

She cautioned that the erosion of local culture is a significant threat if indigenous knowledge is not integrated into new technologies.

During the opening of the University of Zululand’s (Unizulu) 4th International Education Week at the KwaDlangezwa Campus this week, which was held under the theme ’Building an African University through Collaborations and Partnerships,’ Gina emphasised that internationalisation should not compromise African identity.

This as Unizulu’s Internationalisation Office, in collaboration with the BRICS Student Commission, is hosting the 4th International Education Week. 

According to the university, International Education Week 2025 is more than a week of dialogue; it is a bold step toward building globally connected African universities grounded in indigenous knowledge, identity, and innovation.

The department stated that this aligns with the African Union’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) agenda for 2025. This agenda focuses on education and emphasises the development of human capital with skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

It aims to foster innovation and promote technological adaptation to drive Africa’s transformation into a knowledge-based economy.

The agenda prioritises strengthening STEM education and digital literacy, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, adapting existing technologies for local use, and fostering cross-sector collaboration to align STI with national development goals.

The Deputy Minister stated that Unizulu was the premier institution to lead in this area of meaningful work. 

“We need robotics that can be fed our content and teach our children in our languages, before someone in India or China does it for us,” said the Deputy Minister, urging the university to lead in curating isiZulu data for generative AI.

Gina challenged South African universities, including her alma mater, Unizulu, to rise to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the gig economy by forging international partnerships that preserve African epistemologies while promoting global competitiveness.

Highlighting her recent attendance at a high-level African AI summit in Tanzania, she emphasised the importance of data sovereignty for Africa’s innovation future.

“If this institution is not yet grappling with the challenges of solving industry and societal problems through AI and R&D (research and development), then a fresh start is needed.” 

She noted that universities across the globe are redesigning their futures, adopting online learning, accelerating industry partnerships, and contributing to national innovation systems. 

She warned that institutions that fail to adapt are “digging their own graves.”

In the wake of South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) and ongoing BRICS STI collaborations, Gina encouraged universities to leverage new funding streams and global research networks, especially in strategic technologies.

The Deputy Minister’s remarks made it clear that for African universities to remain relevant and competitive, they must embrace collaboration without compromising their cultural identity. 

“Relevance is the cornerstone of survival and growth. But as you collaborate, do not lose yourself,” she concluded.

International Education Week brings together local and international scholars, student leaders, and policymakers to explore global academic partnerships rooted in African identity. – SAnews.gov.za
 

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Investigation into violent altercation at Oudtshoorn correctional centre

Source: Government of South Africa

Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, has expressed concern over an incident at the Oudtshoorn Medium A Correctional Centre that left one inmate dead and other officials injured.

According to the department, the incident occurred this week during a routine search operation on inmates housed in room 005 of A-Section, where the offenders initially refused to comply.

“With the necessary intervention, officials were able to gain access and continue with the search. Tensions rose as some offenders resisted being searched, but officials managed to stabilise the situation and complete the operation. Several contraband items, including cellphones and narcotics, were confiscated.

“In a clear act of retaliation, on 7 August 2025…offenders from Room 005 launched a premeditated and violent assault on officials during unlock procedures. At the time, a total of 18 officials were on duty. Four of them sustained injuries, including stab wounds to the face, head, and back.

“One offender involved in the altercation sustained injuries and, despite receiving medical attention, sadly passed away. This loss of life is unfortunate and will be subject to further investigation in line with departmental procedures,” the department said.

National Commissioner Thobakgale reaffirmed the department’s commitment to safety within correctional facilities

“The safety of officials and inmates remains our foremost priority. Incidents of this nature are deeply concerning, and we are committed to thoroughly investigating all contributing factors,” Thobakgale said.

The department assured that the situation at the centre is “currently under control”.

“Offenders implicated in the stabbings have been placed in single cells pending disciplinary action. A-Unit has been re-searched, resulting in the confiscation of additional weapons. 

“All offender activities and visits have been suspended until further notice. The Department of Correctional Services remains committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the officials and inmates, whilst maintaining order across all its correctional facilities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

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2025 Women in Science Awards finalists announced

Source: Government of South Africa

As the country celebrates Women’s Month, the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 South African Women in Science Awards (SAWiSA).

This prestigious initiative has recognised and celebrated the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) since 2003.

According to the department, SAWiSA highlights exceptional researchers, who can serve as role models for the next generation of young women and girls. 

This initiative aims to inspire them to pursue careers in science. The awards are part of a broader strategy designed to transform the research and scientific landscape.

The theme for the 2025 SAWiSA event is ‘Unpacking STEM Careers: Her Voice in Science’. It aligns with global efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in STEM by recognising the role of women in shaping scientific disciplines.”

This year, 30 outstanding finalists have been selected across four categories, including Distinguished Women Researchers, Distinguished Young Women Researchers, Doctoral Fellows, and Master’s Fellows. 

Their groundbreaking work spans a wide range of fields, including public health, paediatrics, inclusive innovation, gender studies, religion, and the circular economy – reflecting the depth and diversity of women’s contributions to science in South Africa. 

The 2025 SAWiSA winners will be announced at a prestigious awards ceremony to be held on 21 August 2025, as part of the department‘s Women‘s Month celebrations.

This year’s ceremony will be held in Bloemfontein to reflect the department’s commitment to promoting the national visibility of the SAWiSA, and ensuring that the celebration of women in science reaches diverse regions across the country.  

The award ceremony is therefore hosted in a different province every year.

The 2025 DSTI Fellowships will be named after a trailblazer from the province, Dr Ivy Matsepe-Casaburri.  

Matsepe-Casaburri, born in the Free State, was one of South Africa’s most distinguished leaders in information and communications technology, education and science policy.

The department congratulates the following finalists, listed in alphabetical order by surname.

Distinguished Women and Distinguished Young Women Researchers

Prof Jess Auerbach Jahajeeah, University of Cape Town.
Prof Jill Hanass-Hancock, South African Medical Research Council.
Prof Victoria Madden, University of Cape Town.
Prof Tebogo Mashifana, University of South Africa.
Prof Shanaaz Mathews, University of Cape Town.
Prof Zilungile Mkhize-Kwitshana, University of South Africa.
Prof Carolyn McKinney, University of Cape Town.
Prof Lucy Moleleki, University of Pretoria.
Prof Brenda Morrow, University of Cape Town.
Dr Maurine Musie, University of Pretoria.
Prof Sarojini Nadar, University of the Western Cape.
Prof Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng, University of Pretoria.
Prof Alison September, University of Cape Town.
Prof Mahloro Hope Serepa-Dlamini, University of Johannesburg.

Doctoral and Master’s Fellowships 

Kimberly Christine Coetzer, Stellenbosch University.
Ruby May Davies, Nelson Mandela University.
Nadine Zeta du Piesanie, University of Pretoria.
Samantha Filby, University of Cape Town.
Nolwazi Thabile Gazu, University of South Africa.
Jaymi January, University of the Western Cape.
Duduzile Kubheka, Stellenbosch University.
Nothando Clementine Madlala, University of Mpumalanga.
Kegomoditswe Malebo, University of the Free State.
Jacqueline Maphutha, University of Pretoria.
Linda Maqutu, University of Johannesburg.
Corine Mouton, Stellenbosch University.
Phelisa Ntayiya, University of Cape Town.
Nathma Samie, University of South Africa.
Nomthandazo Precious Sibiya-Dlomo, Durban University of Technology.
Motheo Meta Tjebane, University of Johannesburg. 

– SAnews.gov.za

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CEM Africa Summit 2025 to Tackle the New Customer Experience (CX) Mandate: Connection, Trust, and Real Value

Source: APO

As the continent’s leading customer experience (CX) event returns to Cape Town next week, the CEM Africa Summit 2025 promises to confront the industry’s toughest challenges head-on, from fragmented data strategies and siloed teams to the rising demand for human-centered digital experiences. 

Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and rapid technological disruption, African CX leaders are under more pressure than ever to deliver value that is both measurable and meaningful. But what does “value” really mean in 2025? And how are Africa’s most trusted brands redefining customer connection, trust, and growth? 

Ahead of the summit, three headline speakers, Tatiana Ndlovu (Nedbank Africa), Zain Naidoo (Dischem), and Ben Phillips (Fujitsu), shared exclusive insights on the state of customer experience across the continent. 

The New Trust Economy 

“The most urgent challenge right now is the digital divide and with it, a crisis of trust,” says Tatiana Ndlovu, Executive Head of Marketing for Nedbank Africa. “Without reliable access, digital transformation can’t fulfil its promise. But even where access exists, trust breaks down when consent isn’t clear and customer data isn’t handled transparently.” 

Ndlovu warns that customers today aren’t just choosing brands, they’re choosing ethics. “Top companies are moving fast to rebuild that trust,” she says, “investing in transparent data frameworks, localised content, and frontline empowerment. It’s not just digital, it is human.” 

From Broadcast to Bonding 

Zain Naidoo, Head of Digital at Dischem, agrees, but he’s focused on how brands communicate. “We have entered a phase where blasting customers with generic content doesn’t cut it. People want to be seen, heard, and helped, not just sold to.” 

He sees the future of CX in Africa being about dialogue over delivery. “It’s not enough to be efficient. The next three years are about moving from broadcasting to bonding, connecting with customers through data that feels personal, not invasive.” 

Naidoo also notes the organisational change required to get there. “The brands doing it best are tearing down internal silos. CX, digital, marketing, they are building integrated strategies around shared outcomes. If your teams are still working in isolation, the first step is to get everyone in a room and walk the customer journey together.” 

Intent Over Metrics 

But is more data always the answer? Ben Phillips, Head of the CX Performance Centre at Fujitsu Europe, doesn’t think so. 

“We’re drowning in data. Surveys, scores, dashboards, we don’t need more of them. What we need is clarity. We need to communicate to teams, clearly and simply, what customer experience looks like in their role.” 

Phillips calls out one of the industry’s most enduring myths: that “CX is everyone’s job.” 

“It’s a well-meaning sentiment, but in practice it becomes meaningless unless people understand what that actually requires of them. We need to stop speaking in generalities and start giving teams specific, role-relevant actions they can take.” 

Why CEM Africa Matters Now 

Now in its 13th year, CEM Africa Summit has become the essential annual gathering for African CX leaders, and the 2025 edition is set to be the most strategic yet. 

From AI-powered service design to cross-channel orchestration, and from privacy-by-design to customer trust recovery, the agenda features practical insights across financial services, retail, telecommunications, and public services. 

“CX can be overwhelming,” says Naidoo, “especially with limited resources and high expectations. But CEM Africa is one of those rare spaces where the noise clears, and you get real answers to real problems.” 

Ndlovu echoes the sentiment: “CX leaders should walk away with not just inspiration, but actionable strategies that elevate both business outcomes and the lived experience of customers.” 

Ben Phillips sums it up succinctly: “This isn’t about hype. It’s about clarity and execution.” 

The CEM Africa Summit 2025 takes place 20–21 August at the CTICC in Cape Town. For more information, visit www.CEMAfricaSummit.com. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group.

For media or further inquiries, contact:
steven.dennett@wearevuka.com 

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