Category: MIL-OSI

Posted on

Joint Statement between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa on the occasion of the Official Visit of His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa to Malaysia, Malaysia

Source: President of South Africa –

At the invitation of the Honourable Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, His Excellency Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, undertook an Official Visit to Malaysia in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits from 24 to 27 October 2025. This marked President Ramaphosa’s first official visit to Malaysia since assuming the Presidency on 15 February 2018. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations on 8 November 1993, Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa have enjoyed a strong and enduring partnership, underpinned by mutual respect, shared values, and common aspirations.

President Ramaphosa was received by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and accorded a ceremonial welcome at Perdana Square, Prime Minister’s Office in Putrajaya on 25 October 2025. Following the ceremony, both leaders held a meeting to review the current state of bilateral relations of Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa and exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest. Both leaders also reaffirmed the bonds of friendship between the two nations and their aspirations to build a more dynamic and resilient partnership. The substantive discussions were held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the deep trust and shared commitment of both sides.

Both leaders recognised the importance of revitalising bilateral relations and expressed their commitment to enhancing cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment; halal industry; agriculture; defence; science, technology and innovation; education; tourism and culture; transport; and capacity building. They recognised that enhanced collaboration in these sectors would deliver tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries and contribute to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

Both leaders expressed confidence in the continued growth of bilateral relations and noted the considerable untapped economic potentials between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa. They further agreed to strengthen trade and investment linkages by facilitating participation of businesses from both countries in trade fairs, exhibitions, and business forums.

Malaysia expressed its intention to expand exports of MSPO-certified palm oil to the Republic of South Africa, in support of the country’s growing demand for sustainably produced food and ingredients within its food processing and manufacturing sectors. Both leaders highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation including research, training programmes, and green manufacturing in the palm oil industry, recognising Malaysia’s position as a global leader in sustainable palm oil production and the Republic of South Africa’s potential as a strategic partner and emerging market. Both sides further agreed to explore opportunities for joint ventures, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen collaboration and promote sustainable growth in this sector.

Acknowledging the strategic importance of technological advancement, both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in the field of semiconductor. Both sides recognised Malaysia’s role as a global hub and leading exporter in the semiconductor industry, and expressed commitment to leverage this expertise to promote knowledge-sharing, joint research, and capacity-building. The Republic of South Africa is keen to export to Malaysia iron and related products, aircraft and spacecrafts components, machineries and parts while also encouraged Malaysia to consider investing in green hydrogen, mineral beneficiation, energy infrastructure, energy battery storage and distribution and automotive.

Recognising the growing global demand for halal products and services, both Leaders agreed to enhance cooperation in the halal sector, capitalising on Malaysia’s expertise as a globally recognised leader in this field. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to facilitating mutual recognition of halal certification, strengthening the halal food supply chain and manufacturing of halal products, as well as exchanging best practices in halal standards and certification processes. Both countries agreed to further explore mutually beneficial opportunities for joint cooperation in utilising the Republic of South Africa as a Halal Hub to access the huge market for halal consumers in Africa.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in agriculture, particularly in the areas of food security, sustainable farming practices, agro-based industries, and agro-tourism. They agreed to explore opportunities for joint ventures and collaborative initiatives in the areas of technology transfer, capacity building, and innovation in agriculture.

Recognising that bilateral defence relations are underpinned by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Defence Cooperation signed in 1996, both leaders welcomed the initiative to review the MoU through a Protocol of Amendment aimed at revitalising and strengthening defence cooperation in line with current strategic priorities. They further agreed to reactivate the Defence Committee (DEFCOM) as the primary platform of engagement and implementation of the strategic objectives between Ministries of Defence for both countries, with its reactivation expected to commence in 2026. Both leaders also reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepen collaboration in emerging areas of defence cooperation such as military training and exercises, maritime safety and security, defence science, technology, and industry to deepen existing relations in joint ventures, technology transfer, modernisation, maintenance and repair of defence equipment as well as technology transfer towards mutual interests and partnership.

Both leaders reaffirmed the significance of science, technology, and innovation (STI), as well as especially disruptive technology, as key drivers of economic growth and transformation. They agreed to promote collaboration in emerging sector, particularly through joint research and development, knowledge-sharing, technology transfer, science diplomacy, and capacity-building to strengthen innovation ecosystems in both countries. Both leaders also concurred that the government-led research and innovation must establish robust, reliable research and funding to facilitate sustained collaboration.

Both leaders underscored the importance of education as the cornerstone of sustainable development and shared prosperity. They agreed to enhance cooperation between higher education institutions, promote academic and student exchanges, and strengthen collaboration in technical and vocational education and training (TVET), including joint research and scholarship programmes to nurture future-ready talent and advance knowledge-based growth.

Both leaders acknowledged the significance of culture and tourism in strengthening people-to-people ties and fostering mutual understanding. They agreed to deepen cooperation through exchanges in the fields of arts, heritage, creative industries, and tourism promotion. Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in the field of tourism, particularly in the context of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and Malaysia Year of Medical Tourism 2026 (MYMT2026) campaigns, as well as the Republic of South Africa’s rich cultural and natural heritages.

Recognising the importance of enhancing connectivity between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa as a key enabler of trade, tourism, and people-to-people linkages, both leaders encouraged continued collaboration between relevant ministries and agencies, to explore opportunities in the maritime, aviation, and logistics sectors. Both leaders welcomed the private sector participation in areas related to rail transport, logistics, and infrastructure development towards facilitating greater economic integration between the two countries.

Both leaders noted with satisfaction the continued success of the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) in supporting capacity-building initiatives in the Republic of South Africa. Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthen cooperation under the MTCP, especially in the areas of education, healthcare, semiconductor and renewable energy.

In realising the full potential of the bilateral relations, both Leaders underscored the importance of maintaining regular high-level exchanges, consultations, and close coordination at all levels. They also agreed to continue fostering dialogue and collaboration on regional and international issues of common concern within the framework of multilateral organisations including the United Nations (UN), the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Commonwealth.

The President of the Republic of South Africa extended his warm congratulations to the Prime Minister and expressed his strong support for Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship. The President conveyed confidence in Malaysia’s leadership in advancing ASEAN’s goals of deeper regional integration, peace, and prosperity. The Prime Minister, in turn, commended the Republic of South Africa’s important role as the G20 Presidency as well as its significant contributions within BRICS in promoting inclusive growth, multilateral cooperation, and global solidarity. Both leaders further agreed to explore avenues of cooperation within BRICS, with a view to advancing shared interests and strengthening further South-South collaboration.

Both Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying cooperation under the ASEAN-South Africa Sectoral Dialogue Partnership framework. Malaysia also expressed its readiness to work closely with the Republic of South Africa to advance shared priorities within ASEAN, including the promotion of regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

Both leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to promoting peace, stability, and justice in the international arena. They noted the active cooperation on key issues within the framework of international organisations, particularly the United Nations (UN), the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Commonwealth, and reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support for each other’s initiatives and candidatures to international bodies.

Both leaders strongly condemned the atrocities in Gaza and reiterated their steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s inalienable right to self-determination and the establishment of a sovereign, viable, contiguous, and independent Palestinian state. They welcomed initiatives aimed at achieving an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire; removal of blockade on Gaza; the protection of all civilians; and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian assistance to those affected. Both leaders emphasised the importance of achieving a just, comprehensive, and solution that would bring lasting peace and stability to the region. Malaysia commended the leadership of the President of the Republic of South Africa for initiating proceedings before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concerning the situation in Gaza.

Both leaders further agreed on the necessity of upholding the international order based on the principles of the UN Charter, including the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states. Both leaders reaffirmed that military action is never a viable means to resolve any conflict, and that a lasting peace must be pursued through diplomacy, dialogue and collective multilateral efforts.

President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed his deep appreciation and sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Government of Malaysia for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit. In return, the President of the Republic of South Africa expressed his keen anticipation of welcoming the Prime Minister of Malaysia at the upcoming G20 Summit to be held from 22 to 23 November 2025 in Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa.

Both leaders reaffirmed their confidence that the outcomes of this visit would further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Malaysia and the Republic of South Africa, while paving the way towards a brighter, more prosperous, and mutually beneficial future for both nations.

ISSUED BY: THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

Posted on

South Africa, Malaysia to ‘recalibrate’ ties – President Ramaphosa

Source: Government of South Africa

Saturday, October 25, 2025

By Neo Bodumela

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – South Africa and Malaysia are poised to “revive and reposition” relations with a view of deepening ties and expanding trade between the two countries.

This is the word from President Cyril Ramaphosa, who was delivering opening remarks at the Official Talks between South Africa and Malaysia at the official residence of Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Seri Perdana in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

The President is on a Working Visit to the country as part of a three-nation visit to the Southeast Asia region, which included State Visits to Indonesia and Vietnam.

“The visit that we are undertaking today here is quite an important one and, for us, quite historic because our contact both at trade level and investment level tapered down over the years. [However] today due to your insistence…you have insisted that we should recalibrate our relationship and we should reboot it, revive and reposition it. 

“For me…it should be very much based on how we should deal with each other on trade, on investment and on support for each other on diplomatic matters internationally and otherwise,” the President said.

He noted that with South Africa’s expertise in areas like food production and Malaysia’s proficiency in technological advancements mean that the relationship is mutually beneficial.

“We have learnt a lot from Malaysia. We have learnt from your best practice in many ways. This visit builds on many years of cooperation.

“Of particular interest to our countries, the position that Malaysia occupies as a leading global hub on a number of fronts…semi-conductors, technology and AI as well as areas like food products.

“We do believe that those are areas that we can cooperate in. This, in many ways, provides Malaysia and South Africa with a mutually beneficial opportunity to base our relationship on substantive issues that solidify our goals,”

The President has invited Malaysia to participate at the G20 Leaders’ Summit, to be hosted by South Africa in November 2025.

“Your participation in the G20 is going to lift that summit. We are ready to receive up to 60 Heads of State, and we are delighted that you will be amongst the leaders that we will be having,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

Posted on

Committee Tells School Leadership to Eliminate Culture of Bullying at Milnerton High

Source: APO


.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Basic Education has told the principal of Milnerton High School, along with members of the school governing body (SGB) and management team to ensure that the school has an effective anti-bullying policy in place as a matter of urgency.

The committee also, in the presence of senior officials of the Western Cape Department of Education, parents of the bullied learners and representatives of the Western Cape provincial office of the Human Rights Commission, called on the school leadership to ensure that there is a concrete turnaround strategy in place to eliminate, among other things, the deeply entrenched culture of intolerance among the school’s learners.

The committee visited the school yesterday in the wake of the horrific assault on a 16-year old learner by several other boys, who used various objects, including a hockey stick, hose pipe and belt to beat the boy. Before the committee reached the school, it visited the home of the victim at Parklands as a gesture of support to the traumatised family.

The parents told the committee that their trauma has been deepened by the death threats their son has received for telling his parents about the assault.

In the committee’s engagement with the school’s leadership team and SGB, the principal noted that there is anti-bullying policy in place, but when he was asked to show it to the committee, he was unable to do so, leading the committee to conclude that it does not exist. The school’s code of conduct, which was provided by the principal, mentioned anti-bullying in a paragraph but with no tangible plan to address the problem.

When she explained the purpose of the meeting, the Chairperson of the committee, Ms Joy Maimela, said after the committee was aware of this horrendous act from social media, it had asked the office of the provincial Department of Education for a preliminary report on the matter, but it never received it.

The committee welcomed the update that there will be a disciplinary hearing on Saturday, 25 October. It urged the principal to share the outcomes of the disciplinary hearings with the committee the following day. The Human Rights Commission representatives told the committee that their office will also conduct investigations on the matter and share the report of their findings with the committee.

Ms Maimela, said a second session will be convened on the matter, away from the school grounds. She linked the culture of bullying to rugby first team and urged the school to investigate that possibility and uproot it if it exists. Ms Maimela also called on the school to develop an anti-bullying policy with speed, expedite the disciplinary hearing process, and ensure that there is transformation that uproots all the tendencies that stifle change in the school.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.

Posted on

Journée des Nations Unies : à Beni et Bunia, les autorités saluent l’impact du travail de la Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO)

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Partout dans le monde, la communauté internationale célèbre la Journée des Nations Unies, symbole de solidarité et de coopération entre les peuples. En République démocratique du Congo, des cérémonies ont été organisées en Ituri et au Nord-Kivu pour marquer l’édition de cette année, célébrée le 24 octobre. Les autorités ont salué l’engagement des Nations Unies aux côtés des populations congolaises, quatre-vingts ans après l’entrée en vigueur de la Charte de l’ONU.

À Beni, chef-lieu provisoire du Nord-Kivu depuis l’occupation de Goma par les rebelles du M23, elles ont mis en lumière les efforts conjoints menés avec les Nations Unies dans les domaines de la sécurité, de l’assistance humanitaire, de la santé, de l’éducation et du développement local. Dans la province voisine de l’Ituri, le gouverneur a, lui aussi, souligné l’impact de la MONUSCO dans la stabilisation d’un territoire longtemps affecté par l’activisme de groupes armés.

Lors de la cérémonie organisée à la base de la MONUSCO de Mavivi, le vice-gouverneur du Nord-Kivu, le commissaire divisionnaire Louis Segond Karawa, a rendu hommage au travail accompli par les Nations Unies aux côtés des populations congolaises. « Je rends hommage à tous les Casques bleus, hommes et femmes, qui servent ici au péril de leur vie. Leur présence est un symbole fort de solidarité envers notre population », a-t-il déclaré.

Une vitrine des actions de l’ONU dans la région

Ali Garba, chef intérimaire du sous-bureau de la MONUSCO à Beni, a lancé un appel à l’engagement collectif pour la paix : « Nous devons dire non à la guerre, mais aussi participer activement à la paix. Le thème de cette année, “Construisons l’avenir ensemble”, ne peut se concrétiser sans la paix », a-t-il souligné. Après la cérémonie officielle, une exposition a permis aux visiteurs de découvrir les nombreuses interventions de la MONUSCO et des agences des Nations Unies dans les territoires de Beni, Butembo et Lubero.

Des efforts et des résultats visibles

À Bunia, le gouverneur de province, le général Johnny Luboya Nkashama, a mis en avant les interventions des Casques bleus et des agences onusiennes, qui ont permis à des milliers de personnes déplacées de regagner leurs villages d’origine dans les territoires de Djugu et Mahagi, qu’elles avaient quittés à cause de l’insécurité.

Pendant plusieurs années, l’activisme des groupes armés avait contraint des populations entières à fuir leurs localités. Aujourd’hui, la stabilité retrouvée dans certaines zones favorise le retour des déplacés et la reprise des activités agricoles et économiques.

La localité d’Amee, dans le territoire de Mahagi, illustre cette dynamique. Plus de 20 000 personnes y ont regagné leurs villages au cours des trois dernières années.

« La MONUSCO a beaucoup fait dans notre entité, d’abord pour la sécurité de la population et de ses biens, ensuite pour le développement, en construisant au moins cinq ponts, en réhabilitant des routes et en installant l’éclairage public au centre d’Amee. Tout cela permet de relier notre entité à trois groupements (Mbr’bu, Nioka et Ugwero) dont nous étions coupés à cause du délabrement des infrastructures », témoigne le chef de groupement.

Relance des activités agricoles

Dans le groupement de Mbr’bu, toujours en Ituri, la relance agricole est tangible. La production annuelle dépasse désormais dix tonnes de maïs, de haricot et de café. Le président de la fédération locale des commerçants exprime sa satisfaction : « Depuis l’installation de la MONUSCO chez nous, l’insécurité a reculé. Tous les quartiers et champs étaient abandonnés. On ne pouvait pas cultiver. Et la sécurité est revenue : on se rend aux champs sans être inquiétés et, en cas d’attaque, les Casques bleus interviennent rapidement et patrouillent chaque jour. Leur présence a également favorisé la création de champs communautaires, non loin de leur base ».

Ces efforts contribuent aussi au renforcement de la cohésion sociale entre communautés longtemps divisées par les conflits. Le gouverneur s’est félicité de ces avancées : « Là où il n’y avait pas de vie, vous avez vu la vie reprendre. Je suis sûr que, sans eux, nous aurions eu beaucoup plus de difficultés. Les résultats sont palpables. Vous savez que depuis quatre ans que je suis ici, nous avons travaillé en étroite collaboration avec la MONUSCO, de sorte que là où il n’y avait pas de vie avant, en Ituri, vous avez vu la vie reprendre. Je parle ici de la RN27 : quand vous arrivez à Kabarole, vous montez vers Nyakunde, vous allez à Boga, Tchabi… Vous allez à Amee, avec tout ce qu’il y avait eu là-bas, vous allez à Ngote, jusqu’à Djalasiga… Nous sommes très contents. Et même les déplacés sont pris en charge jusqu’à aujourd’hui », a rappelé le gouverneur.

Il a également rendu hommage aux agences des Nations Unies telles que le PAM, le HCR, le PNUD, l’UNFPA, l’UNICEF et l’OMS, saluant leur « sacrifice énorme » et leur engagement constant auprès des populations les plus vulnérables.

Distribué par APO Group pour Mission de l’Organisation des Nations unies en République démocratique du Congo (MONUSCO).

Posted on

De la « performance exceptionnelle » du 10e contingent d’aviation sri-lankaise

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Le 22 octobre 2025, à Bria, 130 Casques bleus, dont trois femmes, du 10e contingent d’aviation sri-lankais (SRI AVN 10), ainsi que des officiers d’état-major et des observateurs militaires de la MINUSCA, ont reçu la médaille des Nations Unies. Une reconnaissance pour leurs efforts remarquables consacrés à la protection des civils et au maintien de la paix en République centrafricaine.

Déployé depuis le 6 décembre 2024 dans cette région sensible, le contingent sri-lankais a fait preuve d’une performance exceptionnelle avec plus de 1 200 heures de vol, soit une moyenne de 120 heures par mois, plus de 450 tonnes de fret transportées et plus de 3 000 passagers acheminés. Le contingent a également mené 24 opérations d’évacuation sanitaire, dont cinq missions de nuit, illustrant son rôle vital dans les évacuations d’urgence et témoignant de sa préparation opérationnelle exemplaire, de sa résilience et de son engagement envers la paix.

La cérémonie a vu la présence du Lieutenant-général Humphrey Nyone, Commandant de la Force de la MINUSCA, du Gouverneur de la région du Fertit, du Chef de bureau de la MINUSCA, ainsi que de représentants des Forces de défense et de sécurité centrafricaines.

Dans son allocution, le Lieutenant-général Nyone a salué le professionnalisme du 10e SRI AVN et souligné sa contribution majeure au maintien de la paix et de la sécurité dans le pays. Il a déclaré : « Cette cérémonie n’est pas seulement une remise de médailles ; elle incarne la dévotion, le courage et l’engagement de ce contingent. Aujourd’hui, nous honorons des hommes et des femmes qui sont allés au-delà du devoir dans le service de la paix », a-t-il dit a l’égard des récipiendaires.

De poursuivre, le Commandant de la Force a fait valoir que « Ces médailles symbolisent la fierté, le service désintéressé, la résilience et le sacrifice. Elles reflètent à la fois vos accomplissements individuels et notre volonté collective de promouvoir la paix, la sécurité et l’espoir dans les zones qui en ont le plus besoin ».

Durant son mandat, le 10e contingent sri-lankais a excellé dans divers domaines :  renseignement, surveillance, reconnaissance, transport de troupes, de munitions, de vivres, de carburant et autres fournitures essentielles, tout en menant des missions au-delà de sa zone de responsabilité

Distribué par APO Group pour United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).

Posted on

Concours de recrutement de 150 fonctionnaires des Douanes : La liste des candidats retenus pour les épreuves psychotechniques déjà disponible

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Directrice générale des Douanes informe les candidats au concours direct de recrutement de Cent cinquante (150) fonctionnaires des Douanes, session 2024, que la Commission Nationale d’Organisation a délibéré sur les épreuves sportives.

À l’issue de ces délibérations, les candidats dont les noms seront publiés sont déclarés admis à prendre part aux épreuves psychotechniques. Ces derniers, y compris ceux inscrits pour les postes de personnels techniques et administratifs, seront convoqués ultérieurement par les canaux officiels pour la suite du processus.

Pour toute information complémentaire, les candidats sont invités à se rapprocher de la Direction générale des Douanes, des Directions régionales des Douanes, ou à contacter le numéro vert suivant : 01 91 13 13 13.

La Directrice générale des Douanes remercie tous les candidats pour leur patience et leur esprit de compréhension.

Distribué par APO Group pour Gouvernement de la République du Bénin.

Posted on

Message by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr Sylvestre Radegonde on the occasion of United Nations Day

Source: APO


.

On the occasion of United Nations Day, the Republic of Seychelles reaffirms its profound respect for the persistent role of the United Nations (UN) in promoting peace, fostering multilateral cooperation, and advancing global sustainable development. This day serves as a reminder of the United Nations’ enduring commitment and instrumental contributions to building an inclusive, just, and resilient global community.

The UN continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue and collective action, enabling all nations to work together in addressing the complex and interconnected challenges of our time. Seychelles reaffirms its steadfast commitment to the fundamental values and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.

Over the years, the UN has consistently upheld, supported, and championed the unique needs and priorities of Small Island Developing States, recognising their vulnerabilities and particular development needs. Aligned with these efforts, Seychelles remains dedicated to advocating for climate justice, as well as promoting ocean governance and peace.

Recent significant advancements in securing ceasefires and building consensus across conflict-affected regions, supported by the United Nations, offer a renewed sense of hope and reaffirm the power of diplomacy and dialogue. These positive steps not only underscore the potential of collective commitment to resolving differences peacefully but also highlight the success of multilateralism as a core pillar for international peace and security.  We remain confident that through continued cooperation and solidarity, the international community can overcome challenges and realise the enduring peace that is so earnestly sought by all nations and peoples.

In this pivotal year, we call upon the international community to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to global solidarity and to strengthen multilateral cooperation. The complex challenges confronting humanity demand our collective resolve, guided by mutual empathy, shared responsibility, and a steadfast dedication to the common good.

As we commemorate United Nations Day, let us renew our shared pledge to advance the noble pursuit of a just, inclusive, and sustainable world—one that upholds the dignity and well-being of all people, and endures for the benefit of present and future generations.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Republic of Seychelles.

Posted on

Peace begins with the smallest voices and the greatest hope on the United Nations’ 80th anniversary

Source: APO


.

“In the ashes of broken promises and hope, the light blue and white came in 1945, 80 years ago. They did not come with swords nor with arrows, but with peace upon their wings and trust in shades of the sky. They gather meaning to every life. UNMISS, standing tall like a wall between faith and fear, holding dreams that tremble in the night, holding peace like a candlelight.”

On a burning hot day in Juba, amidst a vibrant celebration, a young dreamer passionately expresses her hopes for her own future as well as that of her country.

Ten-year-old Aluel Mochnom Wuor, inspired the large crowds gathered at a commemorative event in the capital with her deeply moving poem calling for collective action for peace.

As a true ambassador for positive change, she embodies the hope for a brighter future for the world’s newest nation.

“Silence is not surrender, and strength is shaped by every pain that we face,” she continued.

On 24 October, the courtyard of the University of Juba vibrated with the collective spirit and energy of hundreds of young people who gathered to celebrate United Nations Day, reaffirming a mutual commitment to fostering partnerships between the international community and people across South Sudan in the pursuit of peace.

Under the UN global theme of “Building Our Future Together,” participants pledged to collectively shape a brighter and more prosperous future for the conflict-affected country.

“Here in South Sudan, the UN has worked in partnership with the people and the Government to provide humanitarian assistance, support for the peace process, protection of civilians, improve livelihoods, and build resilience. There has been progress,” emphasized Ms. Anita Kiki Gbeho, Officer in Charge and Special Representative of the Secretary-General, voicing the collective stance of the UN family in South Sudan.

South Sudan stands at a pivotal moment in its history, as it grapples with rising tensions and political violence and confronts the potential collapse of the peace deal. While the United Nations is needed more than ever at this volatile time, humanitarians and peacekeepers are facing significant new financial constraints which are impacting their support. Despite these challenges, the United Nations family is committed to staying and delivering alongside the people it serves.

On the 80th anniversary, the focus was on the United Nations’ contribution to peace, recovery and development and the strong partnerships it has forged with the host government and communities across the country.

“South Sudan as a country in transition looks to the United Nations for continued technical, economic, and development cooperation, and we particularly urge one, sustained support to the peace roadmap and preparations towards credible, peaceful elections,” stated Dr. Martin Elia Lomuro, Minister of Cabinet Affairs. 

A photo exhibition highlighted the strong, steadfast support of the United Nations efforts to South Sudan, since its independence in 2011 through to the signing of the landmark peace deal in 2018 and today, as the country continues to struggle to secure peace and stability. 

But together, the UN and people of South Sudan continue to plant the seeds of hope and work together to ensure peace flourishes.

“This organization — your organization, can think of no better time to recommit to South Sudan’s vision: a vision of a peaceful, a prosperous and a stable nation where no one, especially young girls, are left behind.,” added Ms. Gbeho.

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

Posted on

Le Président Ndayishimiye a officiellement présenté le nouvel administrateur de la commune Tangara

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


Dans la suite de prise de fonctions des administrateurs communaux, le Président de la République a présenté officiellement le nouvel administrateur de la commune Tangara M. Jean Pierre NDIKURYAYO devant une foule immense venue de toutes les zones de cette commune comprenant les anciennes communes de Ruhororo et Tangara.

Le Numéro Un Burundais a de prime abord animé une séance de moralisation à l’endroit de la population de Tangara l’appelant à la consolidation de la paix chèrement acquise, à la discipline, au travail et à la production pour l’exportation, avant de rappeler aux leaders leur devoir d’intégrité, d’équité, d’encadrement et de service à la communauté.

“Des installations électriques visant à alimenter tout le pays sont en cours et d’ici mars 2026, 85 % des centres du Burundi seront électrifiés, et parallèlement, un forage permettra la distribution d’eau potable à la population”, a rassuré le Président Ndayishimiye.

Les cérémonies de présentation officielle de Monsieur NDIKURYAYO ont été précédées par les travaux communautaires où le Président Ndayishimiye s’est joint, dans le cadre du Flambeau de la Paix, XIXᵉ Édition qui a été placé sous le thème : « Leaders, soyez l’étoile sur le chemin du développement du pays », à l’équipe Intwararumuri dans les travaux de pavage du Centre de Santé de Mugirampeke, en cette même commune de Tangara, de la province Butanyerera.

Distribué par APO Group pour Présidence de la République du Burundi.

Posted on

South Africa G20 Presidency: Advancing the Global South

Source: Government of South Africa

By Themba Thobela

As the world grapples with the urgent challenges of climate change, economic instability, and widening inequality, South Africa’s G20 Presidency stands as a beacon of hope. 

 

South Africa is leading a bold agenda that places Africa and the wider Global South at the heart of global decision-making, guided by the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”

 

In the lead-up to the G20 Summit on 22–23 November 2025 in Johannesburg, we have used every preparatory meeting and platform to ensure that the voices and priorities of emerging and developing economies shape a fairer, more resilient global future.

 

South Africa’s message is clear, wealthy economies must confront the hard truth of global inequality. As a nation that has lived through the pain of division and injustice of apartheid, we cannot remain silent while millions across Africa and the Global South continue to carry the weight of an unfair world order.

 

Today’s global system still favours the wealthy, leaving developing countries trapped in cycles of debt and struggle. With fewer resources to invest in critical areas like poverty reduction, healthcare, and education, they are denied the chance to unlock their full potential. Climate change deepens these injustices, stripping people of dignity and opportunity.

 

Inspired by the legacy of Nelson Mandela, South Africa is called to act and speak for those who cannot, to challenge exclusion, and to build a fair and inclusive future for all. Our G20 Presidency turns this moral imperative into action, advancing bold reforms, dismantling barriers of past injustice, and driving policies that deliver lasting change.

 

We want Africa and the Global South, home to over half the world’s population and immense natural resources, to have a stronger voice. Doing so not only strengthens the fight against global challenges like climate change but also unlocks the promise of fast-growing markets and a youthful population for sustainable progress worldwide.

 

Since December 2024, South Africa has hosted more than 130 meetings from ministerial gatherings in Durban to youth summits in Johannesburg amplifying voices from small businesses, young leaders, and think tanks across the Global South.

 

These efforts have driven real change, pressing for fairer voting rights in institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organisation. Experts from the Global South have helped shape G20 task forces on jobs, food security, and Artificial Intelligence to make sure policies meet real-world needs of all nations. Through platforms like Business 20 and Youth 20, South Africa has also made sure women, young people, and entrepreneurs have a direct say in global decisions.

 

A central focus of our Presidency is reforming the global financial system. We are working to reshape multilateral development banks so that they better serve sustainable development, making financing more accessible and trade fairer, so that developing nations have the tools they need to grow and thrive.

 

We also know that climate change strikes the Global South hardest. That is why our G20 agenda prioritises mobilising finance for a just energy transition. We are pushing for larger, better-quality climate funding, ensuring the transition is both environmentally responsible and socially inclusive. We are also highlighting the urgent need to strengthen disaster resilience and support vulnerable nations as they recover and rebuild.

 

Through our Presidency, South Africa has brought together diverse voices to advance fairer global system. Our leadership is already rewriting the rules of global cooperation, and we remain confident that as the Global South takes its rightful seat at the table, it will pave the way for a more inclusive, just, and resilient world.

 

*Thobela is Acting Director: International Media Engagement, GCIS