Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

Canon Academy Partners with Kigali Center for Photography in Rwanda to Launch Canon Academy Workshops at Kigali Visual Encounters 2025

Source: APO – Report:

  • Canon Academy offers a comprehensive educational program featuring hands-on workshops covering a wide range of photography topics. To date, we have successfully trained 2,200 students through this initiative.  
  • Participants will have the opportunity to engage with Canon’s latest imaging innovations throughout the programme.

Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com), a leader in imaging technology, today announced the launch of the Canon Academy in partnership with the Kigali Center for Photography for Kigali Visual Encounters 2025. This initiative is exclusively dedicated to Canon customers equipping them with practical photography skills.  The Canon Academy Rwanda will take place from October 27 to 29, 2025, at the Institut Français in Kigali.

Canon Academy is a key component of the company’s broader efforts to advance the creative sector across the continent. Aligned with Canon’s Kyosei philosophy, “Living and Working Together for the Common Good,” the programme aims to equip aspiring and professional photographers in Rwanda with high-quality training, and relevant industry knowledge. 

Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director, Canon Central and North Africa, says, “Through the Canon Academy, we’re expanding our reach and impact by making photography training accessible to our customers in Rwanda. This collaboration with the Kigali Center for Photography for the Kigali Visual Encounters Festival represents our commitment to equipping young people and communities with the skills, inspiration, and opportunities they need to succeed in the creative economy. It is also a reflection of Canon’s strategic approach to shape Africa’s future through education and innovation.”

Canon Academy is dedicated to Canon users, offering hands-on experiences across a wide array of topics. Workshops are led by certified Canon trainers, ensuring that participants benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals. The programme caters to different skill levels, from beginners to professionals, allowing each participant to grow at their own pace.  

Hands-On Workshops Will Deliver an Action-Packed Experience

The Canon Academy will provide participants with a comprehensive, real-world training experience focused on developing practical photography and videography skills. The programme will begin with a beginner workshop, where attendees will learn about key photography concepts such as camera settings, composition, and lighting techniques.

Participants will have the opportunity to engage with Canon’s latest imaging innovations throughout the programme. The Camera Innovations Masterclass will showcase the versatility of Canon’s mirrorless and DSLR systems, featuring models such as the R50, R50V, R100, R10, and R8, through interactive demonstrations and hands-on sessions.

The programme will also include practical outdoor sessions, such as a Street Photography Workshop. Guided by experts and supported by Canon’s Selphy printers, attendees will produce tangible prints that reflect their progress. Workshops will be led by founder of Kigali Center of Photography- Jacques Nkinzingabo and Business Development Manager at Canon- Raul Gabat, who will provide expert mentorship, hands-on guidance, and practical techniques tailored to all skill levels.

The training academy will conclude with the Canon Academy Hangout and a certificate ceremony, offering opportunities for networking, and formal recognition of participants’ achievements.

About Kigali Center for Photography:

Established in 2017, Kigali Center for Photography is the first and only one of its kind in the capital of Rwanda, Kigali City. The Center was founded by Rwandan freelance photographer Jacques Nkinzingabo, with a vision to create a Learning and Creating space dedicated to the development of photography, visual culture, and artistic practices in Rwanda. With a photography gallery space to showcase a wide range of exhibitions for photographers, the center aims to explore and promote visual storytelling and photography by supporting emerging artists explore beyond the medium. It is also the host of the Kigali Visual Encounters Festival, which serves as a platform for cultural exchange and photographic engagement.

Jacques Nkinzingabo, Founder of the Kigali Center for Photography, adds, “The Kigali Center for Photography serves as a learning and creative space dedicated to advancing photography, visual culture, and artistic practices in Rwanda. The first and only of its kind in Kigali City, it has positioned itself as a hub of creative learning and cultural exchange. Through the Kigali Visual Encounters 2025, and in collaboration with Canon, it provides an inclusive, meaningful, and community-driven platform for development.”

With the establishment of this programme, Canon is further solidifying its commitment to inclusive development through localised engagement and hands-on skills training. The initiative is designed to build skills and strengthen the wider creative infrastructure within the region. By empowering young people with practical tools, industry insights, and educational opportunities, Canon is helping to transform creative potential into viable professions, ultimately contributing to the growth and diversification of the country’s creative economy. 

Canon continues to prioritise the growth of Africa’s next generation of storytellers by developing platforms that harness the power of technology, education, and collaboration. Its participation in the Kigali Visual Encounters Festival reflects this ongoing commitment, one that extends beyond imaging innovation to champion people, purpose, and advancement across the continent.

– on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

Media enquiries, please contact:
Canon Central and North Africa
Mai Youssef
e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

APO Group – PR Agency
Rania ElRafie
e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

About Canon Central and North Africa:
Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (www.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (https://apo-opa.co/43dU6ls) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

For more information: www.Canon-CNA.com

Media files

.

Posted on

APO Group to Participate in Africa Tech Festival 2025, Championing Africa’s Digital Innovation Story

Source: APO – Report:

APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is proud to announce its participation at Africa Tech Festival 2025, taking place from 11 to 13 November in Cape Town. The company’s presence at the continent’s most influential technology and innovation gathering underscores its commitment to telling Africa’s success stories, driving confidence in the continent’s innovation ecosystem, and supporting its clients in connecting African technology leaders with global audiences. 

Africa’s technology sector continues to record strong growth, driven by innovation, investment, and a young, digitally-savvy population. However, the visibility of these advancements on the global stage remains limited. APO Group’s participation at Africa Tech Festival 2025 underscores its commitment to bridging this information gap by promoting Africa’s innovators, enterprises, and success stories to international audiences and reinforcing confidence in the continent’s technology and innovation ecosystem. 

APO Group’s presence at the event further reflects its mission to connect African innovators, businesses, and industry leaders with global media and investors, ensuring that breakthrough ideas, successful ventures, and transformative projects receive the recognition they deserve. 

Bringing together policymakers, investors, startups, and corporate leaders, Africa Tech Festival 2025 unites its four event programmes – AfricaCom, AfricaTech, Africa Ignite, and The AI Summit Cape Town – under the themes of Responsible Innovation, Inclusive Investment, Connectivity for Development, and Policy Harmonisation. These goals mirror APO Group’s aim to amplify the voices shaping Africa’s digital future and ensure they are heard across global media platforms.  

APO Group Chief Executive Officer Bas Wijne will represent the company throughout the festival, delivering a keynote address on the future signals for Africa’s emerging tech landscape, attending the Leaders in Africa Summit, and serving as a judge for the Africa Tech Festival Awards that will be presented at a gala ceremony on 12 November. 

“At APO Group, we don’t just tell Africa’s innovation stories. We help track what’s next and share these messages with the marketplace, changing narratives and building trust in the continent’s digital and technology capabilities,” said Bas Wijne. “Our role is to make sure the world sees the progress being made across the continent, from AI adoption to digital infrastructure and beyond. When visibility increases, so does investment, confidence, and opportunity; Africa Tech Festival provides a platform to achieve this.” 

Additionally, APO Group’s Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), serves as a member of the Africa Tech Festival Leadership Council, a prestigious assembly of senior leaders from across the continent, tasked with shaping the future of this premier technology event and ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Africa’s rapidly evolving tech ecosystem. 

APO Group’s involvement at the Africa Tech Festival 2025 reinforces its position as Africa’s trusted communications partner, building bridges between innovators, investors, and policymakers. Through strategic storytelling, the company helps translate the continent’s momentum into measurable business and reputational growth. Its extensive media network, covering more than 250 African news websites and thousands of journalists, ensures that the continent’s most inspiring stories reach the audiences that matter most. 

From supporting global and pan-African tech firms operating across African markets to amplifying the achievements of home-grown startups, APO Group continues to challenge perceptions and showcase Africa as a hub of creativity, resilience, and opportunity.  

“Through platforms like Africa Tech Festival, our work enables businesses and governments alike to build trust, attract partners, and position Africa at the centre of global digital transformation,” added Wijne. 

– on behalf of APO Group.

APO Group Media Contact: 
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:  
Founded in 2007, APO Group (www.APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputations and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media by crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact on the continent and globally.  

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy of the Year South Africa in 2024 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, the Davos Communications Awards 2025 awarded us the Gold Award for Best PR Campaign and the Bronze Award for Special Event.  

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.  

Media files

.

Posted on

Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Prime Minister of Yemen

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 03, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met Monday with HE Prime Minister of the sisterly Republic of Yemen, Salem Saleh bin Braik, who is visiting Qatar to participate in the World Summit for Social Development, slated for Nov. 4-6 in Doha.
The meeting dealt with the two countries’ cooperation relations and ways to bolster them; the latest developments in Yemen; and host of topics of mutual interest.
During the meeting, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs affirmed the State of Qatar’s unwavering support for Yemen and its continued assistance to its brotherly people until they achieve their aspirations for security, stability, and development.

Posted on

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets President of Haitian Transitional Presidential Council

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 03, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met on Monday with HE Anthony Franck Laurent Saint Cyr, President of the Transitional Presidential Council of the Republic of Haiti, who is visiting the country to attend the Second World Summit for Social Development, hosted by the State of Qatar from November 4 to 6.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations and explored ways to strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

They also addressed a range of issues of shared interest. 

Posted on

Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Meets Commander of the US Central Command

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 03, 2025

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met Monday with Commander of the US Central Command Admiral Charles Bradford Cooper, currently visiting Qatar.

The meeting discussed the close strategic relations between the State of Qatar and the United States of America and ways to support and strengthen them, primarily in the areas of military and defense cooperation. The two sides also discussed a host of topics of common interest. 

Posted on

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Meets Foreign Minister of The Gambia

Source: Government of Qatar

Doha, November 03, 2025

HE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sultan bin Saad Al Muraikhi met Monday with HE Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad of the Republic of The Gambia Sering Modou Njie, currently visiting Qatar.

Discussion during the meeting, addressed bilateral cooperation relations and ways to support and strengthen them. 

Posted on

Transnet gears up for increased fruit exports

Source: Government of South Africa

Transnet says it is ready to handle increased fruit export volumes at the Cape Town Container Terminal, which serves as a key link between Western Cape producers and international markets. 

This as the deciduous fruit season has been forecasted to increase by 3% in export table grapes, pomegranates, stone fruits, berries, apples, and pears from November 2025 until the end of March 2026. 

“We are approaching this season with confidence following recent investments in new equipment which we look forward to using this deciduous season. These newer machines are more resistant to wind which has been a challenge for us over the years,” Western Cape Terminals Managing Executive, Oscar Borchards said. 

The terminal’s heightened state of readiness is a direct result of strategic investment in state-of-the-art equipment, focused maintenance, continuous process improvement and effective people management across Transnet Port Terminals’ (TPT’s) terminals, the operating division of Transnet.

In the 2025/2026 financial year, Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) plans to spend R4 billion in five terminals across KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape and Eastern Cape. 

To enhance efficiency, the Cape Town Container Terminal has received 28 brand new rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGs), with nine of the RTGs already operational. 

The second set of nine machines is currently nearing the end of the commissioning stage, while the last batch of 10 is being assembled.

The new equipment boasts both anti-sway technology and diesel-electric hybrid engines.

The Cape Town Container Terminal has put mitigation measures in place to better manage operations during windy periods. 

These include closely monitoring of the truck booking system when the terminal is windbound, which entails cancelling all appointments should operations be halted for longer than four hours. 

The terminal will also follow a staggering approach on imports/exports stack dates, segregating reefers, empties and full containers to create fluidity. 

The Cape Town Container Terminal will work synergistically with the Cape Town Multipurpose Terminal to manage peak periods during the season. 

Smaller vessels will be redirected to the multi-purpose terminal to reduce congestion at the container terminal. 

Export deciduous fruits are predominantly grown in the Western Cape, with minimal Northern Cape volumes handled through the Cape Terminals. –SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Deadline looms for comments on Airfreight Strategy

Source: Government of South Africa

 The National Department of Transport (DOT) has reminded all stakeholders in the airfreight sector that the date for comments on the gazetted Airfreight Strategy of South Africa is fast approaching.

The strategy has identified 11 priority areas with one of them being on the usage of drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the provision of seamless services and movement of goods in the airfreight sub-sector. 

Drones or AUVs are included not as a simple technical innovation in the envisaged Airfreight Strategy for South Africa but as a critical enabler designed to significantly multiply the efficiency, inclusivity, and resilience of the entire national airfreight system.

“Drones or UAVs offer a powerful solution for the ‘first and last mile’ of delivery. They will complement the conventional road-based transportation by rapidly moving smaller, time-sensitive, and high-value shipments. For businesses, this means lower operational costs, faster delivery times, and a significant boost to e-commerce growth,” the department said on Sunday.

This technology is expected to extend the reach of airfreight to rural and hard- to-reach areas where traditional modes of transport are hugely challenged. 

“By offering an agile, alternative transport option, drones or UAVs add a crucial layer of resilience to supply chains, ensuring continuity during disasters like floods or infrastructure failures. Furthermore, drones or UAVs stand to foster alignment with global sustainability goals by providing a greener, low-emission delivery method.

“Given the public conversation on drones or UAVs that has sparked in the wake of publication of the draft Airfreight Strategy for South Africa, it is essential for the DOT to implore the public, once more, to submit their comments into the gazetted draft Airfreight Strategy for South Africa,” the department said.

The draft Airfreight Strategy for South Africa aims to unlock the full economic potential of the airfreight sub-sector by addressing systemic challenges such as fragmented cargo corridors, market barriers, and weak regional connectivity.

It is a product of a rigorous, future-focused assessment that was initiated by the DOT on its national transport policies in relation the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) of 2017.

The findings of the assessments indicated that while passenger and commercial aviation have advanced, the airfreight sub-sector has remained relatively underdeveloped and fragmented. 

“This situation limits the country’s trade and logistical capabilities, thus emphasising the need for a more integrated and efficient airfreight network to unlock its full potential,” the department said.

The window period for the public to submit comments on the draft document was set from 26 September 2025 to 07 November 2025. –SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Congrats Proteas Women’s cricket team

Source: Government of South Africa

Monday, November 3, 2025

Government has commended the Proteas Women’s cricket team for their exceptional performance in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup final against India, which took place at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

While India claimed victory by 52 runs on Sunday, government praised the team for the historic achievement of reaching the finals in the tournament.

“Although the team did not clinch the trophy, the Proteas have made the nation proud through their determination, skill, and fighting spirit. Government conveys heartfelt appreciation to Captain Laura Wolvaardt, Head Coach Mandla Mashimbyi, and the entire technical team for their strong leadership and dedication throughout the tournament. Reaching the final is a historic milestone that will continue to inspire future generations of women in sport,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said.

Government has also thanked all South Africans who rallied behind the team by wearing green and gold, watching the match, and cheering them on. 

“The Proteas Women remain true champions in the hearts of the nation, and Government congratulates the team on their outstanding journey to the final,” GCIS said.

The Chairperson of the Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture, Joe McGluwa, also reflected on the teams’ participation in the tournament and recognised that the team delivered consistent and competitive performances. 

“They convincingly thumped England by 125 runs in the semi-final and held their own in the final. It is hard to fault them. We congratulate our girls for their resilience and the pride they have brought to the nation. Their recent performances are a testament to their hard work, talent, and the promise of a brighter future for women’s cricket in South Africa,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Moody’s confirme la note Aa3 de la Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) à l’issue de sa revue périodique

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), assureur multilatéral fondé sur les principes de la charia et membre du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), a vu sa note de solidité financière du secteur de l’assurance (IFSR) maintenue à Aa3 à la suite de la revue périodique menée par Moody’s Ratings. Cette confirmation témoigne de la confiance renouvelée de Moody’s dans la solidité financière de la SIACE, sa gestion prudente des risques et son mandat stratégique de développement.

Cette annonce fait suite à une réunion du comité de notation tenue le 16 octobre 2025, au cours de laquelle Moody’s a souligné l’amélioration continue du profil de crédit de la SIACE, soutenue par des pratiques de gestion des risques renforcées, une performance de souscription améliorée et une excellente qualité des actifs, soutenue par un portefeuille d’investissement hautement liquide. La solide adéquation des fonds propres de la Société est également renforcée par son statut de créancier privilégié auprès des pays membres.

La note Aa3 bénéficie également du soutien institutionnel et actionnarial solide de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), notée « AAA/Aaa », ainsi que de ses États membres souverains, notamment le Royaume d’Arabie saoudite (Aa3).

Commentant l’annonce de Moody’s, Dr Khalid Khalfallah, Directeur Général de la SIACE, a déclaré: « Le maintien de notre notation Aa3 souligne le profil de crédit robuste de la SIACE et notre engagement indéfectible à fournir des solutions d’atténuation des risques conformes à la charia, favorisant des flux commerciaux et d’investissement durables entre les pays membres. »

Bien que cette revue périodique ne constitue pas une action de notation, elle confirme la stabilité financière continue et la résilience opérationnelle de la SIACE. L’analyse de crédit détaillée de Moody’s devrait être publiée dans les prochaines semaines.

Distribué par APO Group pour Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

Contact :
E-mail : Rbinhimd@isdb.org

Suivez-nous sur :
X : https://apo-opa.co/43Go81e
Facebook : https://apo-opa.co/47HU3Qf
LinkedIn : https://apo-opa.co/3JENyWa
YouTube : https://apo-opa.co/47GEyrT
Instagram : https://apo-opa.co/47yaUVp

À propos de la SIACE :
Membre du groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), la SIACE a démarré ses activités en 1994 afin de renforcer les relations économiques entre les États membres de l’OCI et de promouvoir le commerce ainsi que les investissements intra-OCI en fournissant des outils d’atténuation des risques et des solutions financières. La Société est le seul assureur multilatéral islamique au monde. Elle a joué un rôle de premier plan en proposant une gamme complète de solutions aux entreprises et parties prenantes de ses 50 États membres. Pour la 18ᵉ année consécutive, la SIACE a conservé sa note de solidité financière « Aa3 » attribuée par Moody’s, la classant parmi les leaders du secteur de l’assurance crédit et des risques politiques (CPRI). Par ailleurs, S&P a confirmé la note de crédit et de solidité financière à long terme « AA- » de la SIACE pour la deuxième année consécutive, avec des perspectives stables. La résilience de la SIACE repose sur une souscription solide, un réseau mondial de réassurance et des politiques rigoureuses de gestion des risques. Au total, la SIACE a assuré plus de 121 milliards de dollars de transactions commerciales et d’investissements. Ses activités couvrent plusieurs secteurs : l’énergie, l’industrie manufacturière, les infrastructures, la santé et l’agriculture.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez visiter : https://ICIEC.IsDB.org